Vertical Endeavors - St. Paul

Large, fun indoor climbing space with bouldering, auto-belay walls (beginner), top-roping walls (intermediate), and lead climbing walls (advanced). There was a good variety for all ages and skill sets. I was stunned by some 5-year-olds clipping into auto-belays and scaling up the walls with ease. There were also plenty of noobs or rookies just making it half-way up. All experience levels are welcome, and the staff is super helpful. Wall grips are color-coded and marked with a difficulty level (5.5 to 5.14). You can climb and use whatever grips are available or follow a strict color path to challenge your skills. Rentals are available for harnesses, shoes, and chalk bags. If you stay with a buddy (recommended), you can share chalk. You don't have to rent shoes. If you bring your own, a lean, rounded-toe shoe with grip could work. I recommend using official climbing shoes though. VE has cubbies and secure lockers to store your stuff while climbing. SUSTAINANCE: Bring an XL water bottle, Gatorade, bananas, raisins, and/or other simple sugars with you. (They have vending machines with chips, chocolate bars, Gatorade, and water for about $1.50 each as a back uo.) Your muscles (especially forearms) burn out quickly. Be prepared to replenish! FILTH. Climbing is not a "clean" activity. You'll inevitably get white chalk and grime on your clothes and body. Bring wet wipes because your hands get filthy. You can wash them in the bathroom, but climbing shoes are not allowed in restrooms. Wet wipes enable a quick snack in the lobby. Your hands and fingers will get sore, sweaty, dry, and callused. Hold lotion until you're done climbing. Wear LAYERED CLOTHING, so you can adjust if needed. This past week, I wore a long-sleeved fitted t-shirt. (Having a tank and sports bra underneath is wise.) Depending upon the number of people inside and the weather outside, the indoor temperature varies. Wear COMFORTABLE CLOTHING, so you can reach and stretch freely without the drag of clothing. I prefer fitted leggings and shirts. Some people wear sweatpants and sweatshirts. It's a matter of personal preference. Do not wear jeans or other fabric that's not flexible unless you're prepared for it to tear while climbing to reveal your jewels. FINGER NAILS: Short nails are best for climbing. I left mine long last time, and I was shocked I didn't tear any. Bring a nail file just in case. LITTLE KID CAUTION: The floor around the walls is small shredded tire/rubber bits. It is NEVER cleaned, so it's filthy and gross. I saw several elementary kids play in it like a sandbox or even put it to their mouths. Eww. It is not safe for kids (or anyone) to inattentively sit along the base of climbing walls. If you have a child (or adult) that will not be engaged with the activity and aware of their surroundings, don't bring them. I recently brought two teenage exchange students from Europe. They absolutely loved it! We climbed 9-12 walls over 2 hours, and we were exhausted. We look forward to coming back soon!

In friends have came here as well as brought my kids and this place is amazingly fun! The people are wonderful it's one of the best exercises you can get a side yoga and swimming. I would recommend this place to anyone. I believe as long as the kids are at least 40 pounds it is not a big issue. Have fun be safe!

Last night, I went back to Vertical Endeavors after at least five years of being away. What was incredible was that they still had my punch cards on file AND they let me use them not only for myself, but for the group with me. It meant a lot to me - and saved me a lot of money. Thank you so much Vertical Endeavors! You made my day.

We went Saturday evening for a birthday It wasn’t too crowded. The staff was great. Matt trained us and showed us around and was super helpful.

One of the easiest 5 stars I have ever given! This climbing gym is absolutely awesome! The Staff, Climbs and gym. Are all great! The thing that really stands out to me here is the staff. They are always very attentive interactive and helpful. It is obvious they are very passionate for what they do and they make you love it too. Matthew especially sticks out to me, he’s always chipper and has the biggest smile imaginable, always looking to make your day at the gym better and wants to see you succeed. I will definitely keep frequenting this gym. highly recommend you do too! :)