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Our Routesetting

Callowhill / Climbing

routes set for you

Our routes are set for all ability levels, proportions, and style preferences. Whether one is looking to have fun with friends, climbing for exercise, training for outdoor climbing, or preparing for competition—we’ve got routes that are just right for you.

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KAYA connects the people behind each climb. Discover new sets, get personalized climb recommendations, and log all your climbs – indoors and out – all in KAYA. Download now to build the stoke together.

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Meet the crew

Routesetters are a unique mix of an industrial athlete, craftsman, artisan, choreographer, and product designer. They are well-versed in a variety of climbing and movement styles. They constantly evolve the craft as the needs of our community change and welcome your feedback.

Devin
Cooley | Head Routesetter

Eric
McLaughlin

Jason
Hinds

Brian

Devin Cooley | Head Routesetter

Devin Cooley,the Head Routesetter of Movement Callowhill, brings over 22 years of climbing experience to the table, with more than 17 years dedicated to routesetting. His primary focus is on fostering an accessible and equitable climbing environment, where routes cater to the diverse needs of the community, allowing members to develop skills and find fulfillment as they progress.

Devin views routesetting not only as a means of creating enjoyable climbs but also as a valuable teaching tool. Beyond the gym walls, Devin is a devoted husband and father to a nine-year-old son. Alongside his canine companion, he shares his home with his wife’s two cats. In his free time, Devin indulges his love for the outdoors through activities like running and mountain biking, as well as brewing his own beers

Eric McLaughlin

Eric McLaughlin, a long-time climber with 15 years of experience, also boasts a year and a half of routesetting under his belt. His enthusiasm injects fresh energy into the routes he creates. Previously serving as a coach at Callowhill, Eric is dedicated to crafting routes that foster community engagement and unity.

Jason Hinds

Jason Hinds received his first harness as a hand-me-down. His favorite and only chalk bucket, now around 15 years old, is also a hand-me-down. He expresses gratitude to Chad for these items. Additionally, he won a camera gear grant with the assistance of photos taken at a BIPOC photography camp, for which he thanks Nikki. For over a year, he utilized a friend’s crash pad, acknowledging John for his generosity. The climbing community has provided Jason with numerous benefits, both tangible and intangible, and he endeavors to reciprocate as much as possible. Currently serving as part of the Movement Callowhill’s setting team, Jason contributes by creating challenging routes for climbers to tackle and occasionally crafting comfortable holds to boost their confidence.

Brian

Brian, a seasoned route setter and rock climber, boasts nine years of experience scaling cliffs and pushing his limits. When not conquering new routes, he can be found pounding the pavement on his favorite running trails, finding solace and joy in the rhythm of his stride. A devoted dog lover, Brian’s adventures often feature his loyal and energetic canine companion, who adds an extra layer of excitement to his outdoor escapades. Brian’s heart is devoted to the majestic cliffs of El Potrero Chico and the rugged beauty of New River Gorge, where he feels most alive and connected to nature. With a passion for exploration and a thirst for challenge, Brian’s journey as a climber is as boundless as the peaks he ascends.

FAQs

  • Who is on my Setting Team?

    Each of our regions has a designated setting team. Above you can see pictures of our setters. If you see any of them around the gyms please say “hi” and introduce yourself.

  • How do I know what is being set next?

    We post our route setting schedule every two weeks. The goal with the setting schedule is to communicate where our team will be setting so you know which zones will be closed and where to look for your new climbs.

  • What days can I expect the setting team to be working?

    Typically, our team sets weekdays between 8am-4:30pm.

  • How long does it take to set a climb?

    Each setter will build between 3-6 boulders or 1-2 routes in 4 hours then group into smaller forerunning teams for about 2-3 hours and calibrate the climbs to ensure all challenges are grade-appropriate and adjust for quality & accessibility for a spectrum of climber types.

     

  • How does the setting team grade climbs?

    The day will begin with our Head Setter mapping out the intended grades for each of the climbs for the day. Once the first draft is complete which we call a ‘Skeleton’ we will have the primary setter forerun the climb and adjust any movements and swap out holds to get us closer to the intended grade. Our primary goal is to ensure the climbing movement meets our quality criteria then ensure we are hitting our mark with the grade. We will have at least one other setter forerun and make adjustments to the climb. The setting team will have a conversation about the grade and place our consensus in KAYA.

  • Why does this set of new climbs feel easier/harder compared to the last set?

    It could feel easier because the holds are clean with fresh texture. It could feel harder because you have not gained the muscle memory just yet. Each climb is unique and could be presenting a unique challenge that might fit your skillset or be out of your routine climbing movement. Either way, we appreciate your input and hope that you share on KAYA so our setting team can better understand what you desire so we can make every climb a uniquely positive experience.

  • Where do I report a spinning hold?

    If you find a hold that moves or seems loose, let the front desk know and they will get the info to the setting team to fix it.

  • How do I get into routesetting?

    We have a company opportunity page where we post all new employment opportunities. As a department we are looking for passionate climbers who are curious about exploring movement and designing appropriate challenges for our gym users. Keep an eye out for a community event called ‘Setting with the Setters’ where our setting team provides a guided experience of what our team does to create new climbs.

  • What is the minimum climbing ability for a routesetter?

    We have found that climbing at least V4 or 5.11+ is essential to meet the demands of forerunning each work day and basic understanding of movement. If you are not there yet and have interest please share your interest to your local head setter. They might be able to guide you to become a contender for our apprenticeship program.

  • Does our gym have an apprenticeship program?

    We have training for newly hired seasoned setters but our apprentice program is designed to take a new setter who has limited or no experience and mentor them through a 6 month program. We encourage motivated individuals to apply because we have a system to train you to become a great setter.