Interested in trying something new? The Evergreen State is a mecca of outdoor adventure. If you're feeling overwhelmed by choice, there's no shame in following the masses and giving climbing— one of America's fastest-growing sports— a whirl. Though it might seem intimidating, the climbing community takes real pride in welcoming greenhorns, offering an affirming and supportive environment that's friendly to all ages and abilities. And there's hometown pride at stake; the oldest climbing gym in Washington is also the oldest in the country!

Visit Vertical World in Seattle to see where it all began.

In light of climbing's growing popularity, it's hard to imagine that when Vertical World first opened in 1987 on Elliot Ave in downtown Seattle, it was radical. The sport has always contained a "purist" contingent— people who believe that real climbing only happens on real-life rock outdoors.

And there's some truth to that. Over time, indoor gyms have created their own climbing styles that don't necessarily translate to routes outside. But that doesn't mean that the sport's outdoor and indoor contingents can't coexist.

Vertical World might've started with rocks glued to plywood panels, but today, it features state-of-the-art walls on which climbers hone their skills before testing their mettle outside. Over winter, it's a refuge from the wet weather until outdoor conditions improve, and its excellent learning programs help kids and adults get a foothold in the sport.

Since top rope and lead climbing both require competency tests, you'll likely get started with bouldering. The only equipment necessary for this sub-sport is shoes, and rentals are $7.

Need a break? Ease your arm pump at the gym's foosball table.

Or, better yet, get to know your fellow climbers! Gym members and staff are usually excited to orient newcomers to facilities and the sport's basics. Bouldering, in particular, is highly collaborative, and it's common for groups to "solve problems" together, gym-speak for helping others get to the top.

And, in classic Seattle form, community doesn't end with people. If you have a well-behaved pooch, they're welcome to join the fun. Just be prepared to meet more people than you might if you'd flown solo.

Interested in trying something new? Give climbing a chance at the oldest climbing gym in Washington, Seattle's Vertical World. It's a great place to meet new people, and if you get hooked on the sport I did, all you need to find your footing and begin your climbing journey is the right pair of shoes.