North Summit Climbing Gym

First of all, I am NOT an experienced climber, so I can’t speak to a veteran’s experience at North Summit. My boyfriend and I came here one Sunday for a unique date experience, and we weren’t disappointed.
The friendly instructor gave us a very thorough lesson first, covering all the safety information, how to tie the ropes, etc. It took about a half hour, but was very interesting and informative. Then he supervised our first climb before leaving us to it. We had a great time trying out the various routes. Their climbs go from 4 (easiest) to 13, I think (hardest). We stuck to the 4, 5, and 6 climbs and were plenty challenged.
The gym wasn’t overcrowded, and everyone there was very polite and friendly. Couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon.

This is the first place I learned the ropes and fell in love with rock climbing, over a year ago. It’s not a big place but there are enough routes to keep you entertained for hours. They also change them up regularly to keep it interesting and challenging. The first time you come, instructor will go over everything you need to know. He’ll be by your side for the first hour. Once he sees you get the hang of it you are on your own :) They will never stop emphasizing to check your partner’s ropes, this is a sure way to be safe. I’ve been here 4 times already and always had a great experience. I love rope climbing but they have a nice wall for bouldering enthusiast as well.

Pretty cool place, good for all ages, knowledgeable and helpful staff.

Awesome place to climb. The prices were quite reasonable, but the big thing is the staff. They are down to earth people willing to help out. I am new to climbing but I never felt like an outcast, everyone there was nice. I don’t have many places to compare it with but the problems were well thought out. I just had a blast wish I lived in PA still I would be there everyday. If you are thinking about going do it you won’t be dissappointed.

I honestly don’t know what I was thinking when I walked into the North Summit Climbing Gym… Part of me was petrified and the other part was excited. That was until I found out that the instructor only gives you (all) a 10 minute lesson and then leaves you by yourself. Now, I am not the fastest learner — so now I was only petrified/​freaking out… what if I don’t belay someone correctly or tie my knot correctly and come plummeting to the ground (thankfully neither of those happened). I really thought the instructor would be staying with us the whole time — especially since we were new and had a 3 year old with us. Nope — 10 minutes and she was gone. At first I was sweating and regretting coming — I didn’t think I could do it. But then after a couple of tries of each (belaying and climbing) I got the hang of it and it was fun. I really enjoyed myself. I did get tired quickly — I didn’t realize how much upper body strength that I did NOT have. As far as the place is concerned, it was clean, they did have someone watching the climber at all times, and they had various options on skill level (I stuck the easy level the whole time — while my friends were a bit daring and tried level two and three). And even though the instructor only stayed with us for 10 minutes, she was great. Very patient — especially after going over everything at least three times for me (I know it’s sad). I would defiantly come back again!

I’ve climbed at a lot of gyms in the eastern PA area, and this is one of my favorites. You can tell they put a lot of thought and effort into route setting and taking care of the gym. I’ve probably climbed here about 5 times now, and I always look forward to going back.
The routes are TOUGH and rated way harder than most other gyms. I can do a 5.10 other places, and here I sometimes fall on 5.8s. Definitely puts you in your place! But the routes are interesting and unique, some focusing on a particular type of move or style so it doesn’t feel like you’re climbing the same thing over and over again. And the holds are always well cleaned and in good shape — not grimy or worn smooth. The bouldering routes are equally fun and challenging.
Staff are really friendly and helpful, and it seems like most people who climb here are pretty chill. I’ve only been on weekend afternoons, but the crowd is always light — just the way I like it.
Definitely worth driving a few extra miles to check this gym out!

For one, I’m not an expert climber. Far from! I just got into this hobby late in 2010. Having a climbing gym somewhat close to my home has been a huge help in getting better at the hobby and preparing myself for outdoor climbing.
North Summit offers a variety of indoor top rope and lead routes ranging from easy (4) to difficult (11) as well as a bouldering area and bouldering routes along the main wall. They also offer beginner belay packages, birthday party options, and equipment rentals. If you’re looking to lead climb here, you’ll have to meet some requirements and be certified by the staff before climbing.
Passes are priced on a full day basis, unless you arrive after 8 PM, then you’re given a discount pass for the rest of the evening (til 10 PM closing). Subscription rates are available for 1, 3, 6, and 12 month packages.
You get to know the regulars here and can learn a lot from the more experienced climbers and staff. The staff is pretty great and will help a newbie out! I’ve had nothing but positive experiences here. Though, if you do have climbing experience and are looking to make the most of a session here, come later in the evening. Friday evenings and Saturdays tend to be busy — Saturday mornings are «kid only» climbing sessions.