FirstHand Climbing, Winston-Salem

About FirstHand Climbing

FirstHand Climbing is a bouldering gym in downtown Winston-Salem where visitors climb artificial rock walls without ropes or harnesses. Climbers ascend various routes set with different colored holds, graded on the V Scale from V0 for beginners through V9 and beyond. The gym features multiple wall terrain types, including vertical to slightly overhanging sections, a Moonboard, and a RockBox area. Climbers descend by downclimbing to landing mats below, a skill staff teach to new visitors. Climbing shoes are required; rentals are available. The gym regularly changes its routes through a process called route setting, where staff remove and replace holds to create fresh challenges. All visitors must create a profile and sign a waiver before climbing. The facility suits climbers of all experience levels, though children under six typically cannot reach enough holds effectively, while children around age ten can access most regular routes.