In the industrial heart of West Seattle, a new kind of community hub has been taking shape since it officially opened its doors on January 1st. Castle Climbing Club (CCC) is positioning itself as more than just a gym; it is a "third space" for the West Seattle community where high-intensity bouldering meets communal relaxation.

According to General Manager Harrison Neel, the club's growth has been fueled by a collective effort to create an inclusive environment. “We just feel that it's... been a real collective effort,” Neel said. “It's really a space for everyone”.

A World-Record "Rolling Pin"

The centerpiece of the 11,000-square-foot facility is a massive, rotating climbing structure known as the "Rolling Pin" (or the "Rotisserie"). Neel confirms that this device is the largest of its kind in the world, with the only other known version residing in a climbing gym in Europe. The massive piece was built and mounted as a single unit, serving as a unique challenge for the club's members.

Expanding the "Castle" Experience

While the club already boasts a deep range of equipment, from free weights to stepper machines, Neel says they are "adding things all the time" to improve the member experience. “Tension boards is one thing we're going to add,” Neel noted, specifically referencing the TB2 brand used for specialized training. The club also plans to add a second sauna within the year and is preparing its rooftop to host events starting this summer.

The facility's unique eight-pole studio is also undergoing a transition. While the previous class partnership is ending, the studio remains a popular feature for individuals. “One of the most popular uses for it is... open pole,” Neel explained, noting that members use the space for their own individual workouts.

Community and "Epic Vibes"

The "Castle" experience is defined by its eclectic event calendar and commitment to inclusivity. Upcoming events include:

• She Rocks: A monthly climbing event for women and non-binary climbers.
• Queer Mountaineers: Monthly climb nights.
• African-American Alpine Club (AAAC): A special Juneteenth event featuring a route-setting workshop and clinic followed by a climb night.

“We're doing a lot to activate membership... through continuing to improve the facility to attract new members,” Neel said of the club's mission.

Located at 6327 W Marginal Way SW, the club maintains extensive hours, opening at 6 a.m. on weekdays and remaining open until midnight seven days a week. Currently, CCC is running a membership drive with rates advertised at $59 a month (plus a $27 one time fee), which includes full access to bouldering zones, the wood-fired sauna, and two guest passes per month. The annual cost is $850 which works out at regular price to $71 a month for access to everything.

As word of the "Rolling Pin" and the club's unique atmosphere spreads via social media, Neel notes they are seeing visitors from "far and wide," including guests from as far away as Australia. WestsideSeattle spoke to one man who is here from New Jersey on a job and he said he loves the CCC noting that climbing/bouldering facilities are part of nationwide trend. According to Recreation Management,

• Members stay longer — fitness amenities increase retention.

• Youth programs are rising, and hybrid gyms can support them with more space and cross‑training areas.

 “People really love the gym and find it to be a very unique and refreshing space compared to a lot of the other places around the city,” Neel said.

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Call the Castle Climbing Club at (206) 845-1900