Frequently asked questions

Bouldering is a type of rock climbing where technical challenges are presented on shorter routes, or "boulder problems." In bouldering, there are no ropes or harnesses, because the problems are usually only 10–15 ft high.

Not at all; Lithos was designed with both new and experienced climbers in mind. All first-time visitors receive a bouldering orientation, and brand-new climbers will benefit from our Orientation Expedition programme, which will walk you through the basics.

Of course! If you can climb a staircase, you can climb a boulder. Besides, bouldering is more about technique and problem-solving than pure strength.

Absolutely. Boulder problems really aren't that tall (our walls are 18' high), and are protected by shock-absorbing mats. Our staff are happy to work within your comfort zone so you won't be left hanging.

Not necessarily. We try to set problems that are inclusive of many different body types. Having reach helps, but so does knowing when to heel hook instead of hoping for a growth spurt.

All climbers will need to wear climbing shoes. You can bring your own, or rent some from us. We also sell climbing shoes. Unfortunately, running shoes are not suitable for climbing.

Climbing can be a workout, so we recommend comfortable clothes that you can move around in, including directions you didn't know were possible. Don't forget to bring your water bottle (we have a bottle-filling station).

Most people will climb for 1–2 hours; but you're welcome to hang out in the cafe or use our workout space for as long as you'd like.

The easiest way is to climb more! If improving your strength is more your style, we have some fitness and training equipment at your disposal, including our adjustable Kilter Board. We also offer courses — check out our Programs page to see what's available.

A Kilter Board is an interactive training wall equipped with adjustable angles and LED-lit holds. It's controlled via a smartphone app, and it lets you select from over 160,000 global boulder problems. The problem's specific hand and footholds illuminate to guide you, and you can adjust the angle to tilt the odds in your favour.

Climbers use brushes to remove accumulated chalk, sweat, skin oil, and shoe rubber from climbing holds. Please help out your fellow climbers by returning brushes to their designated hooks after using them!

Climbing always carries a few inherent risks — namely falling. We do our very best to address them: every climber needs to demonstrate proper falling technique onto the crash pads before we let you loose in the facility.

Yes, you do. You can do it online ahead of time. Keep in mind that anyone under 18 will need their waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.

Of course not! We're taking this opportunity to make some rock-solid improvements across the facility to suit Belleville climbers' needs.

We expect to be up and running by mid-late September. The reopening will be staged, with a soft-opening for founding members, followed by a grand opening launch party. Keep an eye on our social media channels for details!

"Lithos" is Greek for "stone. We figured naming a climbing gym after "paper" would be confusing.

We're at 40 Hanna Ct, Unit 105, Belleville, ON K8P 5J2, which is about 5 minutes from the 401. Parking is available on-site.

Our current hours are Mon – Fri: 13:00 – 21:00. Sat – Sun: 10:00 – 19:00. Generally, we'll be closed or have modified hours on major holidays or during certain events. Keep an eye on our social media or on signage posted in the facility.

Nope! Just feel free to drop in. Day passes and rentals are available.

Sure thing; however, to maintain the air quality, please use a chalk ball or chalktopus rather than loose chalk. Also, please refrain from making tick marks on the walls or volumes.

We use the V-grade (also known as the "Hueco" scale), which ranges from V0 to V17 (as of 2026). Most problems will have a tag near the starting hold indicating how it is graded.

Newly-set problems aren't assigned grades until at least 7 days after they've been set. This is to encourage climbers to try problems that they might not otherwise have tried based on grade.

Our facility is equipped with a 12'x12' Kilter Board with an adjustable angle. Additionally, our fitness mezzanine is stocked with cardio equipment, free weights and other fitness apparatus. Our hangboard station offers several different training options.

No, we don't. We're a bouldering-only facility.

Yes, we do. For lockers, please bring your own lock.

Although service animals are always welcome, unfortunately other pets are not permitted.

Keeping in mind that Lithos isn't responsible for lost or stolen personal belongings, we do occasionally have objects turn up. Call us or ask a staff member for assistance. Any unclaimed items may be recycled, donated or disposed of if left unclaimed for 30 days.

Sure! Just drop us a line at info@lithosclimbing.ca.

Although children of all ages are welcome, they'll generally start having fun at 5 years old. Keep in mind, children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times, and children under 6 must have direct supervision.

We have rental shoes in youth sizes. They're included with the intro membership and during youth programs, or $6 otherwise.

Yes. Many of our problems are accessible to younger climbers, and the Orientation Expedition is a great starting point for all ages.

Not yet, but soon. Check the Programs page for details, or keep an eye on our social media.

Youth climbing sessions (ages 8–14) are coming soon! Check Programs & Courses for updates.

Membership includes unlimited access to the facility while we're open, as well as a number of other perks.

Unlimited facility access during opening hours, 10% off retail items, 2 guest passes for new climbers per month, and the ability to freeze your membership for $8/month.

Students (under 22 years old), seniors (aged 55+), first responders, military, and families (2+ members living at the same address). Valid identification is required.

Prepaid memberships cannot be cancelled or refunded. Recurring/EFT memberships may be terminated beginning on the 1st of any month. We must receive your termination request at least 3 days before your requested termination date. There isn't any cost to terminate a membership, but you will be required to sign a new contract and pay a new activation fee if you restart your EFT in the future. Memberships cannot be terminated or frozen retroactively, and we don't offer refunds or credits for months that have already been paid for.

EFT memberships may be frozen beginning on the 1st day of any month. We must receive your freeze request at least 3 days before your requested freeze date. Frozen EFTs are billed $8 per month, on the 1st day of each month, until you unfreeze. Active duty military personnel may freeze their own membership for the duration of their deployment free of charge. Memberships cannot be terminated or frozen retroactively, and we don't offer refunds or credits for months that have already been paid for.