INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING GYM IN LYNCHBURG, VA
Locally Owned, Community Built, and Open to Anyone Ready to Climb
A Message from the Askews
We believe Lynchburg deserves a place where people can challenge themselves, find a community, and genuinely have fun doing it. That's why Rise Up Climbing exists, and it's why we pour everything into making it better every year.
Watching this gym grow has been the best part. The members who've been here for years, the kids finding their confidence on the wall, the first-timers who walk out hooked … it keeps us showing up every day. We're proud of what this community has become, and we're just getting started.
—JB & Keely Askew
Lynchburg's Home for Indoor Rock Climbing Since 2008
Founded in 2008, Rise Up Climbing is Lynchburg’s original climbing gym, set inside a historic building in the heart of downtown. In 2024, the gym underwent a major renovation, including the addition of auto belays, making climbing more accessible than ever for all ages and experience levels. Keely and JB Askew became partial owners in 2019 and stepped into full ownership of both the business and the building in 2026. Today, Rise Up Climbing is nearly 400 members strong and still growing.
Climb
Discover
Connect
Our motto: Climb, Discover, Connect, guides everything we do. We believe climbing isn’t just about reaching the top of the wall; it’s about discovering new strengths within yourself and connecting with a supportive community along the way.
With towering rope walls, dynamic bouldering terrain, and programs for all ages and abilities, Rise Up Climbing offers challenges and adventures for everyone; from beginners tying in for the first time to seasoned climbers pushing their limits.
The People Behind the Walls
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JB Askew
Co-Owner
Marketing & Outreach -
Keely Askew
Co-Owner
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Chris Voirol
Youth Programs & Member Events
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Noah Keeney
Head Routesetter
Why Climbers in Lynchburg Keep Coming Back to Rise Up Climbing
Rise Up Climbing isn't the only way to spend a free afternoon in Lynchburg, but for a lot of folks, it's become the favorite one. Here's why.
No Experience Required
Whether it's your first time or you’ve lost count, you're welcome here. Staff will get you oriented and on the wall in under 30 minutes, and the routes grow with you as your skills do.
No Time Limits, No Pressure
A day pass gets you the whole day. Stay an hour, stay four, or take a break and come back. There's no clock running out on you.
A Community That Feels Like One
With nearly 400 members and a team that genuinely knows their regulars, Rise Up has the kind of atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
Relaxed Atmosphere, But Serious About Your Safety
“It was our first time doing this, and the staff was super friendly and helpful! My kids has a great time, and I even did some climbing. What a workout! It's got a relaxed atmosphere, but they are serious about your safety. They did a great job with making sure we understood everything we needed to know.”
—Elizabeth
Good People Make a Great Gym
The experience members have at Rise Up Climbing starts with the people on staff. We're always looking for individuals who love climbing, love people, and want to be part of a growing community. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.
Nearly 400 Members Found Their Thing Here. You Might Too.
Whether you've been curious for a while or just decided today's the day … the wall is ready when you are.
