Uplift Climbing is breaking ground on North Seattle's first climbing gym, which is designed to meet the needs of dedicated outdoor athletes. Slated for a 2020 opening, this facility is part of a broader trend in the climbing community as the sport continues to gain popularity. The recent success of films like _Free Solo_ and the inclusion of climbing in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics have heightened interest, with over 5. 1 million visits to climbing gyms across the U. S.

in 2019. Founder Andrew Hou highlights that the gym will focus on serious climbers who train multiple times a week and participate in competitions. While the gym will welcome climbers of all levels, its primary mission is to support those who are deeply passionate about the sport. Uplift Climbing aims to fill a gap in the Seattle area, providing tailored resources and an environment conducive to high-level training. This initiative reflects the growing recognition of climbing as a serious athletic pursuit rather than merely a recreational activity.

As the climbing community expands, Uplift Climbing is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of climbing in Seattle.