Archive for the ‘Climbing’ Category

Bel-Red Boulders “BRB”

Monday, September 30th, 2024

NOW OPEN!

IT’S FINALLY HAPPENING! 
Edgeworks Bel-Red Boulders opened its doors Monday, September 23!

We’re excited to welcome you to our first bouldering-only gym located in the heart of Bellevue featuring 100+ fresh boulders, spray walls, 2 adjustable training boards, weights and cardio equipment, yoga studio, saunas and more.

Now Open Regular Hours:

  • Monday-Friday: 6am – 10pm
  • Saturday: 8am – 10pm
  • Sunday: 8am – 7pm

STOKE LEVEL: Sending Burden of Dreams (v17/9a)

Follow us on Instagram for ongoing updates and comments from our growing community: @edgeworks_brb

EDGEWORKS’ ALL NEW BOULDERING GYM!

We’re “making more happen” at the Staples location at Evergreen Village in Bellevue! Announcing our newest project: “Bel-Red Boulders” … or “BRB” for short, because we know you’ll want to “be right back”.

Located just a few blocks away from our current Crossroads location, this all new 26,400 sq ft bouldering only gym will help fill the growing need for more climbing, training and fitness on the Eastside and for our greater Edgeworks community.

With the vision and intention to create a warm, modern, casual space that appeals to the Eastside community, this project is designed to meet the needs of urban climbers and weekend warriors alike.

PROJECT DETAILS

E/P USA CLIMBING WALLS 15,100 sq ft

Designed and constructed by E/P USA with flooring by Flashed, these new walls were designed to compliment and balance the wall features, angles and training components currently offered at our Crossroads location.

The walls at BRB will include a balance of slab, vert, and overhung terrain, featuring:

  • 9,200 sq ft of climbing surface
  • Up to 19 feet tall
  • 95’ long Gallery Wall
  • (2) 19’ Overhanging Features
  • (5) Alcoves between 13’ and 16’ tall
  • (2) Dedicated spray walls to enhance training opportunities, 30 degree and slab

Full-Fitness TRAINING AREA + Yoga Studio

Training is a focus here! Wanting to allow for strength training at many different levels of climbing and fitness, Bel-Red Boulders will offer a full training area with climbing-specific features, such as:

  • (2) adjustable training boards
  • Campus board
  • Hangboard frame, with up to (12) hangboards and rails
  • (2) Spray walls
  • Free weights and racks
  • Cardio machines
  • Yoga Studio + Group Fitness Space

FACILITY FEATURES Locker Rooms + Saunas

In addition to gender neutral bathrooms that offer more usable, accessible space for everyone, BRB will also feature open access to sinks for easy handwashing between sessions and full locker rooms with showers, benches and saunas!

COMMUNITY Gathering Spaces

With every project we set out with the same goal, to build a space where everyone feels welcomed, challenged + engaged. Including features that promote downtime between sessions and accommodate remote work options, BRB can be your home away from home, work or school.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why are you building another gym in Bellevue? Why not somewhere else?
Good question. Our best answer is opportunity and available space. Demand is still high on the eastside; our Bellevue Crossroads location is crowded and will be losing some bouldering due to expansion and Vertical World Redmond has closed.

This is also not our last project and we’re always excited when people ask us to bring Edgeworks to their communities! We’re also proud to be the only gym in the Seattle-area market to serve any portion of the south sound; Tacoma is in fact where we started and our gyms span the largest area between Seattle, Bellevue and Tacoma. But this is not our last project. We’re always seeking our next opportunity to expand the Edgeworks community to new areas.

Are there any plans to resurrect the development of a Tukwila location?
We really like the idea of the original Stone Gardens Tukwila project but those plans are no longer available. The project was started by Stone Gardens before the Seattle and Bellevue gyms joined Edgeworks and the Tukwila plans were not included as part of the transition. The building has since been sold and leased to other businesses.

Will access to Bel Red Boulders [BRB] be included with my Edgeworks membership?
[Yes] Adding BRB to the Edgeworks community will offer our members a greater variety of climbing terrain, training options, fitness classes and more!

Will you offer more youth programs?
[No] Kids are always welcome at Edgeworks and we remain committed to helping young climbers discover, learn and excel at climbing but the programming focus at Bel Red Boulders [BRB] will be a little different.

With the addition of BRB and the expansion project at Bellevue Crossroads, it is our overall vision to better serve our community as a whole, including climbers of all ages, all sizes, and all abilities – bringing more climbing to the eastside and making space for programming where and when it makes the most sense for everyone.

While you won’t see regular youth programs offered here at BRB, there’s a good chance you’ll see small groups from Team Edgeworks here from time to time – sharing the space, working problems and practicing for bouldering season.

Will membership prices increase?
Prices are adjusted every year, but not due to expansion. Since the very beginning, it’s been Edgeworks’ theory and practice that small yearly price increases provide transparent predictability for our members and allow us to continue our commitment to invest back into our facilities, programs, and employees.

Each year, we evaluate the following criteria that typically results in a monthly membership rate increase:

  • operating costs and staff wages
  • increases in membership value, benefits, access, and offerings
  • future improvements and expansions

Thank you for your excitement and support! We couldn’t be more stoked to share this with all of you.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to leave them send them via our online Customer Feedback form. 

We’ll continue to add to this feed as more questions and details emerge.

Routesetting Clinics

Sunday, September 29th, 2024

Curious about the professional pathways to becoming a route setter?

These clinics will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of route setting. Participants will learn best practices for safety and tool use, and will have the opportunity to set and forerun boulders in a variety of grades and styles.

We will discuss what a standard day of commercial setting entails, and the ways in which interested people can become more involved. Participants can expect to leave the clinic with a greater understanding of the route setting process and the avenues available to those interested in pursuing a setting career.

LOCATIONS + DATES

TACOMA SEATTLE BELLEVUE
Sunday, September 29 Sunday, September 8
Saturday, September 28*
Saturday, September 14
Sunday, September 22*

ALL GENDER CLINICS

Seattle: September 8 | Bellevue: September 14 | Tacoma: September 29
These dates are open to everyone looking to gain greater insight into commercial setting and the process involved in creating routes.

SIGN UP ONLINE!

WOMEN + NON-BINARY CLINICS*

Bellevue: September 22 | Seattle: September 28
Welcoming all who identify as a woman and/or non-binary in a way that is significant to them (cis, trans, genderqueer + non-binary). These sessions, will be led by women from our setting teams.

SIGN UP ONLINE!

CLINIC SCHEDULE

9am – 3:00pm with a 1 hour Q/A lunch break (lunch not provided)

COST

$99 / member
$110 / non-member

North Cascade Summits

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024

Guided Summit Climbs in the North Cascades with Edgeworks Guiding

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most stunning peaks, each holding deep significance in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. At Edgeworks, we’re passionate about helping climbers of all levels respectfully explore the incredible landscapes of the North Cascades. Whether you’re aiming to conquer your first major climb or looking to add another summit to your list, our professionally trained and certified guides are here to support you every step of the way.

MOUNT BAKER: Your Gateway to the Alpine World

Known as Koma Kulshan to the Lummi Nation, Mt. Baker is one of Washington’s most popular volcanoes and the perfect introduction to the world of glacier climbing. Standing at 10,781 feet, Baker offers a relatively non-technical climb with breathtaking views of the surrounding North Cascades and beyond. With its manageable slopes and stunning vistas, Mt. Baker is an excellent choice for beginners looking to step into the world of alpine climbing.

ELDORADO PEAK: The Queen of the North Cascades

Eldorado Peak, though not as widely recognized by a Native American name, is a significant part of the North Cascades’ cultural landscape. Rising to 8,868 feet, its iconic knife-edge ridge provides an exciting challenge for climbers with previous mountaineering experience. The ascent to Eldorado’s summit is an adventure in itself, featuring a mix of steep trails, glacier travel, and an exciting final ridge climb that will test your balance and nerves. This climb is ideal for those with prior mountaineering experience who are looking to challenge themselves on one of the most beautiful peaks in the range.

GLACIER PEAK: The Ultimate Wilderness Experience

Known as Tda-ko-buh-ba by the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe, Glacier Peak is one of Washington’s most remote and least climbed volcanoes, offering a true wilderness experience. Standing at 10,541 feet, it is the fourth-highest peak in the state, surrounded by miles of pristine wilderness. The approach to Glacier Peak involves a 14 mile trek through dense forests and across alpine meadows, offering an immersive experience in the North Cascades. The climb itself is moderate, but the remote location and lengthy approach make it a rewarding challenge for those seeking solitude and adventure.

FORBIDDEN PEAK: A Technical Climber’s Dream

While Forbidden Peak does not have a widely recognized Native American name, it remains one of the most revered summits in the North Cascades. Standing at 8,815 feet, this peak offers a classic alpine climb with exposed ridges and steep snowfields, making it a perfect challenge for experienced climbers. The West Ridge route, often listed among the “50 Classic Climbs of North America,” is especially renowned. For those looking to push their limits in a dramatic and breathtaking setting, Forbidden Peak is an unforgettable experience.

MOUNT SHUKSAN: The Iconic North Cascades Summit

Mt. Shuksan, known as Šqsán in the Nooksack language, is one of the most iconic peaks in the North Cascades, and no list of North Cascades summits would be complete without it. Known for its striking appearance and complex terrain, Mt. Shuksan is one of the most photographed peaks in North America. The summit, at 9,131 feet, is accessible via several routes, with the Sulphide Glacier route being the most popular. This climb offers a mix of glacier travel and rock scrambling, culminating in a spectacular summit with unparalleled views of Mt. Baker and the surrounding peaks.

Why Choose Edgeworks Guiding for Your Summit Adventure?

Our guides are passionate about sharing their love for the mountains with others, and as a company, we are equally dedicated to supporting our guides through the journey. We believe in providing a supportive and educational environment where climbers of all levels can thrive. Our guided summit programs are more than just climbs; they’re opportunities to build your skills, connect with nature, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible.

Whether you’re new to mountaineering or an experienced climber looking to tackle a new peak, Edgeworks offers a range of summit adventures tailored to your goals and experience level. Join us for a journey to the top, and discover the excitement of reaching new heights in the Pacific Northwest.

Ready to Climb in Washington? Explore our guided summit programs and start planning your next adventure with Edgeworks today! Contact us: guiding@edgeworksclimbing.com

Bouldering at Edgeworks

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024
Climber bouldering at Edgeworks Tacoma climbing gym

Where Climbing Meets Community

While bouldering might seem like a solo sport, it’s actually one of the most social forms of climbing. Climbers naturally gather around new sets and challenging problems, collaborating to link moves, share beta, and celebrate sends. While this sense of community happens naturally at many gyms, Edgeworks takes it a step further by intentionally cultivating an engaged community atmosphere. Our focus on building strong connections is what keeps people coming back to our gyms time and time again.

Whether you’re new to bouldering or seeking the best climbing options in the area, Edgeworks is the ideal place to start. Visit us in Tacoma, Seattle, or Bellevue to experience the best of what bouldering has to offer.

Bouldering at Edgeworks: Tacoma, Seattle, Bellevue

  • Bel-Red Boulders: Our newest facility in Bellevue is quickly becoming a favorite among climbers from the Eastside and beyond. Emphasizing modern climbing wall design, highest quality routesetting and community events, Edgeworks Bel-Red Boulders offers next generation climbing in a space that fosters growth and community connection.
  • Edgeworks Tacoma: Located in the heart of Tacoma, Edgeworks’ flagship gym offers a vibrant climbing community and professional routesetting. Enjoy our full-fitness facility, featuring ropes, boulders, weight room, cardio equipment, group fitness classes, yoga, Kilter board, and more. Since 2004, we’ve been the #1 destination for climbers in Tacoma and the South Sound to challenge themselves, find community and build lasting connections.
  • Edgeworks Seattle: Situated in the Ballard neighborhood, Edgeworks Seattle has been an anchor of the Seattle climbing scene since 1995. Our Seattle gym offers a dynamic climbing experience featuring a uniquely crafted, wide range of bouldering problems for beginners and experts alike. Enjoy a warm, welcoming environment where community, climbing and a touch of nostalgia go hand in hand.
  • Edgeworks Bellevue: Nestled in Bellevue’s Crossroads Shopping Center, our Bellevue gym offers challenging boulder problems and routes for everyone, from seasoned climbers to weekend warriors, and anyone eager to try something new. The modern, vibrant gym setting attracts people from all around the Puget Sound who want to climb, connect, and share their passion for climbing. 

Why Choose Edgeworks as Your Bouldering Gym?

  1. Friendly Atmosphere: At Edgeworks, you’re not just a climber; you’re part of a community. Our friendly staff and fellow climbers are always ready to offer encouragement and advice, making every bouldering experience comfortable and enjoyable.
  1. Expert Instruction: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, our experienced instructors are here to help. Join a class or clinic to learn bouldering basics, get tips on technique, and more.
  1. Routes and Setting: Our walls feature a wide range of professionally curated routes for all levels. With dedicated routesetting teams at every location and regular setting rotation schedules, there’s always something new to try, keeping your experience fresh and exciting.
  1. Full-Facility Gyms: Our gyms offer fully stocked weight rooms, cardio equipment, training systems, hang boards, campus boards, group fitness classes, yoga, private instruction, and more. (Offerings vary by location.)
  1. Community Events: From competitions to meetup groups and monthly socials, Edgeworks hosts events that bring the climbing community together. It’s a great way to meet new people and share your passion for climbing.
  1. Gear Shops: Our retail spaces rival the climbing department at REI! We offer a large selection of indoor and outdoor gear, featuring top brands and thoughtfully selected products. Edgeworks is your go-to spot for all things climbing!
  1. Love What’s Local: Edgeworks is a locally owned and operated business, committed to supporting our local climbing community. When you choose Edgeworks, you’re supporting local passion and dedication to climbing.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

  • Bel-Red Boulders: Coming Soon! Summer 2024
  • Edgeworks Tacoma: 6102 N 9th St #200, Tacoma, WA 98406
  • Edgeworks Seattle: 2820 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
  • Edgeworks Bellevue: 1505 140th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005

Seattle Flooring Upgrade

Friday, July 26th, 2024

NEW BOULDER FLOORS

We’re excited to announce a major flooring upgrade at Edgeworks Seattle!

From Monday, July 22, to Friday, July 26, we’ll be replacing the flooring in the Realm and Moonboard/Kilterboard areas. During this time, these areas, along with the weight room, will be closed for construction.

What’s Open?

Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of climbing to be enjoyed! The following areas will remain open:

  • Top Rope Area
  • Walltopia
  • The Dojo
  • Outdoor Wall

Why the Upgrade?

The new flooring will enhance the overall climbing experience for everyone. We’re committed to providing the best facilities for our community, and this upgrade is part of that commitment.

Free Foam Giveaway!

On Monday, July 22, we’ll be giving away free foam! Keep an eye out for specific pick-up times, which will be announced soon.

Thank You for Your Patience!

We appreciate your patience and support as we work to improve your climbing experience. Stay updated by following us on social media for the latest information about the flooring installation and foam giveaway.

Thank you for being part of the Edgeworks community!


Follow Us for More Updates

Celebrate Pride

Saturday, July 13th, 2024

PRIDE 2024

Through conversations inspired and led by LGBTQ+ identifying staff and in collaboration with Queer Mountaineers, members of our staff-led DEI Advisory Committee have been working on ways to show support and create new connections. We have several exciting events planned for June (National Pride Month) and July (Tacoma only) in 2024.

Join us in celebrating diversity, promoting inclusion, and creating a world where everyone can be their authentic selves. Happy Pride Month!

BELLEVUE

PAWS + PRIDE
June 1 | 9:30am – 1pm
Downtown Bellevue Park

Join us at Bellevue Downtown Park for the Eastside’s largest LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Kickoff!

Enjoy a stroll through the park followed by fun festivities including a mimosa/beer garden, DJ Puma, RuPaw’s Dawg Costume Contest, Drag Queen Gaysha Starr, community booths, face painting, and more!

Be sure to visit us at the Edgeworks table for fun prizes and giveaways!

SHOW YOUR PRIDE EVENT
June 18 | 6pm – 9pm

Join Edgeworks and Queer Mountaineers for an evening of climbing, music, and tie-dye fun!

Bring your own shirt to tie-dye or purchase one at the event and add your own meaningful splash of color! Proceeds benefit Queer Mountaineers.

Climb our special rainbow routes, featuring Pride history facts. And, plan ahead for raffle prizes, a cookout, and plenty of Queer joy to go around!

$12 day passes + free rentals

SEATTLE

PRIDE PARTY
June 11 | 5:30pm – 9pm

Get ready to kick off Pride month at Edgeworks Seattle! Join us as we team up with Patagonia Seattle and Queer Mountaineers for an unforgettable celebration!

Dive into the festivities with drag bingo, raffle prizes, tie dye, cookout, climbing and queer joy!

Shoutouts to our sponsors:

  • Black Diamond
  • Mighty-O Donuts
  • Seattle Pops
  • Aslan Brewing

It’s a Pride party like no other – we can’t wait to celebrate with y’all!

WOMEN LOVING WOMEN
June 20 | 6pm – 8pm
$12 day passes + free rentals

Join us for a special evening climb night featuring a special lavender route and offering history. Our friendly staff will kick off the event with a fun icebreaker activity.

Featuring:

  • Sisters in Action Sports
  • She Rocks
  • Hidden Crux Coalition

Don’t miss this exciting and inclusive climbing event—come and connect with the community!

TACOMA

QUEER CLIMB NIGHT
June 13 | 7pm – 9pm
$12 day pass + free rentals

Join us for our monthly Queer Climb Night hosted by Queer Mountaineers, but this time with a little extra glitter and flare! Enjoy making friendship bracelets at our craft table and get expressive with some fun temporary tattoos.

Don’t miss out on this special night of climbing and community!

SHOW YOUR PRIDE EVENT
July 2 | 6pm – 9pm
$12 day passes, free rentals.

A celebration event for the Edgeworks community featuring yard games and tie dye stations:

  • Folks are invited to bring their own shirt or purchase one to tie dye or add color to in a way that is meaningful to them.
  • Proceeds benefit Queer Mountaineers.

Plan for raffle prizes, climbing and queer joy!

COMMUNITY.

Together with professionalism, integrity and adventure, community is one of our core values. To us, it means “a welcoming group of climbing enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and friends connecting through our shared interests in climbing, fitness, and fun”. 

Each Pride Month we take the opportunity to reflect on what we’ve done and still need to do for LGBTQ+ folks in our communities.

Why do we celebrate Pride Month?

We recognize that diversity fuels the spirit of our staff and community. Our commitment to equity and inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience builds a culture where difference is valued, innovation thrives and adventure is accessible to all.

What are we doing to support the LGBTQ+ community?

We are proud to be creating brave + inclusive spaces where all climbers of any gender, identity or sexual orientation feel accepted;  where you can challenge yourself, build your skills and know that this is a place where you belong.

What steps are we taking to accomplish this?

  • Listening + responding to the needs of our staff, members + community
  • Maintaining hiring practices to recruit + retain a diverse staff team
  • Advancing a staff-led diversity, equity + inclusion committee
  • Hiring experts to help identify + navigate our strengths/opportunities through discussion and trainings
  • Building action steps to hold ourselves accountable to changes we want to see

What does this look like to our community:

  • Monthly Queer Climb Nights at all locations; hosted by Queer Mountaineers
  • Progress Pride flags in all facilities (year-round)
  • Period products in all bathrooms (year-round)
  • Pronouns on staff nametags
  • Access to gender affirming bathrooms in all facilities; with improvements to the Bellevue gym scheduled with facility updates and expansion
  • Gender inclusive categories for competitions
  • Celebrate Pride events + activities hosted at all locations during the month of June; and July in Tacoma
  • Redefining who a “climber” is, can and should be by building a better, more inclusive community for all

We’re listening.

Click here to offer your thoughts, suggestions and feedback.

In 2022, we made cash donations to:

In 2023 and 2024, donations will benefit Queer Mountaineers.

Founded by queer dreamers, activists, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts, Queer Mountaineers’ mission is to provide community, access to skills & gear, and a safe space for outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds, genders, and sexualities. We are grateful for the partnership, talents and energy they bring to our gyms.

Please consider joining us in supporting them! Donate Now

Summer Memberships

Friday, July 5th, 2024

Our Summer Send Sale is back!

Perfect for climbers who are only in town for the summer months or new members looking for a great deal on a new membership!

Membership Dates: NOW – August 31.

Purchase early to get the most out of this awesome deal! And, enjoy many of the same great perks and benefits that come with being an Edgeworks member including climbing, fitness classes, guest passes, discounts and more! 

Limited Access! All Summer Memberships include access to one Edgeworks location only; day pass rates will apply when visiting our other locations.

Purchase Online:

Prices vary by location; select the gym at which you wish to climb: 

The earlier you purchase, the better the deal – so don’t wait!

All summer memberships expire August 31, 2024 regardless of purchase date.

Partner Finder Options

Sunday, June 30th, 2024

6 WAYS TO FIND A CLIMBING PARTNER AT EDGEWORKS

Our community is full of friendly climbers willing to lend a catch when needed! And while starting from scratch can be a challenging or somewhat awkward endeavor, the rewards for reaching out to others can get you on the ropes with a new friend in no time. 

Here are 6 tried and true ways to find a climbing partner at Edgeworks. 

BRING A FRIEND! 

Members can (and should!) use their FREE guest passes to introduce their friends to climbing at Edgeworks. 

Each member receives: 

  • 2 free 1st time guest passes per visit
  • 1 free guest pass per month*

*Free guest pass use is limited to 1/every 30 days for guests.

ATTEND A COMMUNITY CLIMB NIGHT.

Pop in for one of our monthly community climb nights designed specifically to help make connecting with people easier. There are several to choose from each month; hit the link to access our events calendar for more details. BELLEVUE | SEATTLE | TACOMA

  • Monthly Climber Socials
  • Women’s Climb Nights / She Rocks
  • Climbers of Color
  • Queer Climb Nights
  • College Night
  • Family Night
  • Military Night

ADD YOUR NAME TO THE BELAY FINDER SHEET.

Our belay finder sheet located at the front desk is a great way to share your information with other climbers and let you take control of the connections you make.  

  • Add your name and contact information.
  • Check the list for other climbers.
  • Connect directly or let our staff help.

ASK OUR STAFF TO MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT.

Find yourself at the gym without a partner? Let our staff help! A simple announcement such as this will have you climbing with a new friend in no time: 

“Attention Edgeworks members and guests, if you were hoping to rope climb with someone today, it’s your lucky day! We have someone at the front desk who is looking for a belay partner. Come on up to the front desk for an introduction.”

JOIN AN ONLINE GROUP.

There are several online options available including: 

BE STRATEGIC.

  • Be an awesome belayer. Chance opportunities to climb with new partners are more likely to turn into long-term partnerships if you’re a solid belayer and taking our Intro to Climbing course is a great way to meet other new climbers. This course is offered free for members; click the link to sign up online.
  • Look for a group of three. Look for groups in the rope areas with an odd number of climbers and ask if they would like another belayer. There is always a chance that the odd person out would be happy to get climbing sooner.
  • Warm up on the boulder walls. Bouldering provides an easy way to be on the lookout for other climbers just like you. If you are unsure how to approach a group of boulderers, try getting in line to start working a popular problem near them.  Usually, other climbers are happy to share what they may have figured out about a particular problem and help you solve the puzzle.