NEW CLIMBERS

CLIMBING IS INHERENTLY DANGEROUS

• Use caution when down climbing and utilize the down climbing holds

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

• Do not sit, stand, or walk underneath other climbers
• Keep your distance when climbing - Do not climb above, below, or close to another climber.
• Keep climbing areas clear of trip hazards (water bottles, phones, chalk bags, etc.).

USE CAUTION WHEN FALLING

• Injuries can still occur when falling on padding.
• Do not stick out any limbs to stop yourself.
• Bend your knees to absorb the fall.

USE CORRECT CLIMBING EQUIPMENT

• Climbing shoes MUST be worn while climbing.
  • No bare feet, sneakers, sandals, or toe shoes
• Do not wear harnesses in the bouldering areas.

DO NOT SPOT A CLIMBER UNLESS ASKED TO DO SO

• If you aren't comfortable with spotting, do not do it.

General Courtesy

• Communicate with other climbers before starting a route
• Take turns on popular routes - do not hog the wall
• Be aware of your surroundings and other climbers
• Keep chalk use reasonable - brush holds when done

Bouldering Etiquette

• Wait for the climber above you to finish before starting
• Call out "FALLING!" loudly when you come off the wall
• Spot climbers when appropriate - ask if they want a spot first
• Keep the landing zone clear of bags, shoes, and other items

Top-Rope Etiquette

• Double-check your partner's knot and belay device
• Communicate clearly: "On belay?" "Belay on!" "Climbing!" "Climb on!"
• Stay attentive while belaying - do not use your phone
• Lower climbers smoothly and at a controlled pace

Route grades indicate difficulty level. Our gym uses the V-Scale for bouldering and the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) for top-rope routes.

Bouldering (V-Scale)

• VB - V1: Beginner - large holds, straightforward movement
• V2 - V3: Intermediate - smaller holds, requires technique
• V4 - V5: Advanced - challenging moves, good strength required
• V6+: Expert - highly technical, significant strength and skill

Top-Rope (YDS)

• 5.6 - 5.8: Beginner - easy climbing, comfortable for new climbers
• 5.9 - 5.10: Intermediate - steeper terrain, technique matters
• 5.11 - 5.12: Advanced - demanding routes, experience required
• 5.13+: Expert - elite-level difficulty

Grades are subjective and can vary between setters. Use them as a general guide, not an absolute measure of your ability.

Age Requirements

• Children under 14 MUST be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times
• Ages 14-17 may climb unsupervised with signed waiver on file
• Youth belay certification available for ages 12+ (requires test)

Bouldering Rules

• Children under 8 must stay in designated kids zone
• Climbing height limit of 6 feet for unsupervised children under 14
• Adult spotter required for children in main bouldering area

Top-Rope Rules

• Children under 40 lbs may have difficulty with auto-belays
• Adult belayer required for all youth climbing on rope
• Youth belay test required before belaying other climbers

The Knot is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all climbers. We expect all members and guests to treat each other with respect.

Expected Behavior

• Be kind, respectful, and supportive of all climbers
• Help create a welcoming environment for newcomers
• Offer encouragement and constructive feedback when appropriate
• Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on others

Prohibited Behavior

• Harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind
• Unsolicited coaching or "beta spraying" without consent
• Reckless behavior that endangers yourself or others
• Damage to equipment, holds, or facility property

Violations may result in membership suspension or termination. Report concerns to staff or email [email protected]