Is climbing safe?
HSCC prioritizes the safety of our participants above everything else. We are committed to managing every risk, every day. All our equipment has been selected with safety in mind, was installed by professionals, and is inspected and maintained regularly. Our staff are highly trained and certified, and clear guidelines for participant behavior keep the gym safe for everyone.
Do I need to know how to climb/belay/tie knots to try climbing?
Absolutely not! HSCC is a perfect place to try climbing for the very first time. Our expert staff have all the know-how needed to get you into a harness and up the wall. For participants who would like to grow their understating of climbing, from tying-in to reaching the top of difficult climbs, we have programs and instructional courses that can take anyone from brand-new beginner to self-reliant climber.
Do I need my own shoes or harness?
No – HSCC offers rental equipment at a low price. For those of you who would like to own the equipment rather than rent, we offer a selection of everything you will need in our retail space. All top ropes and auto-belay devices are set up and free to use. When lead climbing, we are happy to loan you a lead rope at no charge.
What type of belay devices are approved?
HSCC requires the use of assisted-braking devices when belaying at High Steppe. Climbers must pass a High Steppe belay certification test before belaying in the facility. For more details regarding belay certifications, please reference our
Facility Polices & Procedures.
How long can I climb?
A day pass or punch card gets you access to every part of our gym from the time you check-in until closing. Feel free to leave and return to our facility as many times as you like during the same day on the same pass.
What are the benefits of a Punch Card?
Climb at HSCC 9 times and get the 10th visit free! HSCC Punch Cards do not expire and are transferable among friends & family with the following conditions: while children under the age of 11 can use an Individual Punch Card, participants 11 years of age and older cannot share a Youth Punch Card.
How old does my child need to be to climb?
We welcome kids of all ages. We are excited to introduce families to climbing. Our staff will provide an orientation on bouldering safety and use of the auto-belays. Bring your young climber to the gym to give it a try!
Our safety policies do require parents to be engaged with their young climbers. Children under 4 need to be within arms reach while in the climbing areas. Youth 10 and under must be supervised at all times by an adult. Youth 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the facility, and must have direct supervision when using the auto-belay devices. Parents, not staff, are responsible for ensuring proper use of the equipment.
Does my child need to know how to climb to enroll in a program?
No – any child who is excited to climb is welcome to join our programs. All instruction is tailored to the specific students enrolled.
Do I need to stay with my child during a program?
Only for our Mini Monkeys program, for kids ages 3-5. All other programs do not require parents to stay, but you are invited to stay whenever you’d like to see you child in action!
Can I come in to watch my child/grandchild climb?
Non-climbing visitors are welcome to enter the gym with a member or participant. Every person who enters the facility must sign a waiver, but only those who plan to climb, belay, or use the equipment need a day pass, punch card, or membership.
What is the return policy for retail purchases?
It is important to us that you get the gear you need, in the right size. Please make your selection carefully.
High Steppe will accept, for return or exchange, non-safety item that are in new condition; unused, with all tags still attached. Returns must be made within 30 days of purchase with purchase receipt.
Safety equipment cannot be returned for any reason, except flaws in workmanship. Safety equipment that cannot be returned includes belay devices, carabiners, harnesses, helmets, and ropes. On these items all sales are final.
Can I sign the waiver before I arrive at the climbing center?
You sure can! Just select the waiver button above.
How do I make changes to my membership?
We understand that things change – if you need to update your billing information, request to freeze/unfreeze of your monthly membership, or add a family member to your account, please submit a Membership Change Form. Find more details here in the Terms & Conditions of your membership agreement. For quick access: Membership Change Form.
