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1. How do I get started climbing?

We recommend our Introduction to Climbing program as the best starting point, although you may also come in anytime to try it out.

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2. Do I need to take a lesson in order to climb?

No. You can boulder in our facility without any instruction, and auto belays are available after a brief orientation. If you are a competent belayer you may take our belay test to demonstrate that you know how to operate all the equipment safely during any of our normal hours.

The belay test requires that you demonstrate your ability to: 1. Put on your harness correctly. 2. Tie into the climbing rope with a figure-eight follow-through knot. 3. Operate the belay device safely. 4. Catch two falls.

When you demonstrate these skills in front of staff, you will be issued a belay pass to attach to your harness that will exempt you from having to be tested each time you come in. If you cannot demonstrate these skills, you will be asked to come back another time to try again, or take our lesson.

If you don’t know how to belay, we recommend that you attend one of our Intro to Climbing classes.

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3. What does the Introduction to Climbing Class cover?

The Introduction to Climbing Class covers:

• Putting on your climbing harness correctly
• Climbing gear, history, and terminology
• How to tie into the rope using a figure-eight follow-through knot
• How to operate the belay device safely to control the descent of your climbing partner
• Basic climbing techniques to make the experience easier and more enjoyable

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4. What is the difference between bouldering, top-roping, and lead climbing?

Bouldering is the act of low climbing, without the use of ropes and harnesses. It can be done on your own and does not require any prior instruction. The use of a spotter is highly recommended.

Top Roping is where the rope is already set up on the wall for you. The climber and belayer attach to opposite ends of the rope, and the climber ascends the wall, while the partner pulls up slack in the rope through a belay device.

Lead Climbing is a more advanced form of climbing and one that is commonly seen when climbing outside. In lead climbing, the climber brings their rope up the wall with them as they climb, clipping into the carabiners attached to the wall. Lead climbing requires advanced training, and a well-developed climbing ability (5.9 or above) to be comfortable leading.

5. What is “Belaying?"

Belaying is the act of managing the rope for your climbing partner to keep them safe. Whenever a climber ascends beyond 10 feet, they must have a belay partner who has been certified by The Climbing Wall staff. On top-rope, the belayer’s job is to take up slack in the rope as the climber progresses, so that they can lower them safely and slowly back down to the ground when they complete a climb.

6. What is the minimum age to climb?

There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds. 

There is also no maximum age limit. 

7. What is the minimum age to belay?

You must be at least 14 or older to belay at The Climbing Wall. By age 14, most kids have both the physical capability and the mental maturity to handle the responsibilities of belaying, though be advised that staff can refuse to allow anyone to belay who does not demonstrate their ability to safely operate equipment.

8. Who can I call for more information?

Call the Climbing Wall staff at 843-762-9511.

9. Do I need a climbing partner?

Not necessarily. We have 12 auto-belays at the wall. If you want to top rope or lead climb, you will need to come with a partner who has passed one of our belay tests. 

10. How can I find a climbing partner?

The climbing networking site ClimbFind is an excellent resource for finding partners. You may also put up a notice on the bulletin board at The Climbing Wall.

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11. Do I need to make a reservation to climb?

The Climbing Wall at James Island County Park is now available for climbing sessions by pre-registration. A limited amount of walk-up space may be available based on pre-registrations.

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12. What should I wear and bring with me?

Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Avoid very short shorts, which tend to bunch up above the leg loops when you climb. People with long hair should bring an elastic band to tie it up, since it can be a safety hazard if it is long enough to fall into the belay device. It is also a good idea to bring a water bottle, though we also have a drinking fountain.

13. Can I bring my children to climb?

Absolutely! There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds. 

Kids of all ages love to climb, though typically kids age 7 and up will have more stamina for a longer session. Please note that anyone under 18 years of age must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian, so if you are bringing along nieces, nephews or friends of your children, you will need to have them sign one ahead of time for you to bring with you to the Wall.

Activity Waiver

14. I already know how to belay, but my friend doesn’t. Can I teach them?

No. Only The Climbing Wall employees may instruct. This ensures a uniform safety standard in our facility, which makes our staff and insurance company very happy.

15. Isn’t climbing really dangerous?

Climbing may initially seem to be a very dangerous activity, since it involves scaling vertical walls many feet into the air. In reality, climbing is a very accessible sport that can be enjoyed by almost anyone.

That said, there are real safety concerns that come with any vertical sport, and it is important to receive proper instruction on belaying before you get yourself into a dangerous situation.

Anytime you are in doubt, please ASK our staff - they love to offer (frequently unsolicited) advice for any situation.

Safety Tips...