Crag to Gym
Ascent began in 2007 as a New Haven based rock and ice climbing guide service. Our goal has always been to break down physical and financial barriers to world-class instruction and climbing experiences.
Now, the mission continues with Ascent Climbing Gym. Our new bouldering and fitness concept will continue to share our passion for climbing in all its forms, combined with exceptional instruction in a facility you’ll never want to leave.
Meet the Founders
Katie Shapiro
Co-Owner
Highlights
AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor
8 years managing indoor climbing facilities
Managed an adaptive climbing program serving climbers and veterans with disabilities
11 years of climbing experience
USA Climbing Competition Judge
A Connecticut native, Katie began her climbing journey more than 10 years ago while living in Boulder, CO. Her passion for the sport really ignited when a friend invited her to climb a multi-pitch route in Eldorado Canyon. She quickly became hooked on the excitement, heights, fresh air, beautiful views, and time spent with friends outdoors.
Katie moved back to CT in 2019 and found herself right in the heart of New Haven’s climbing community as General Manager of City Climb Gym, located in Science Park. Katie is enthusiastic about creating an inclusive community for climbers and sharing her passion for bouldering and fitness with like-minded individuals in the Greater New Haven area.
When Katie isn’t climbing she enjoys travel, cave diving, skiing, yoga, hiking, boating, and live music with her friends.
Nate McKenzie
Co-Owner
Highlights
AMGA Multi-Pitch Instructor
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor (Provider)
CWA Work at Height Certified
Wilderness First Responder
USA Climbing Certified Routesetter (L1), Coach (L2)
Program Manager and Technical Director at Paradox Sports (501c3)
Ragged Mountain Foundation Board of Directors (2011-2023)
Nate began climbing at an early age in the foothills of Mt Rainier in Washington State. Originally from the Seattle area, his climbing experiences range from coast to coast in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Alps in France and Switzerland.
In 2007 Nate founded Ascent Climbing as an outdoor rock and ice climbing guide service focused on world-class instructional courses and breaking down the physical and financial barriers to outdoor climbing. Nate collaborated with the founders of Paradox Sports (2008) to develop adaptive rock and ice climbing programs from Joshua Tree (CA) to Cathedral Ledge (NH). He contributed to The Adaptive Climbing Manual, a first-of-its-kind curriculum and book that shares techniques for climbers with disabilities to enjoy climbing. To date, Paradox has helped nearly 200 climbing facilities in the US and Canada become more accessible.
Nate served with the Board of Directors at the Ragged Mountain Foundation from 2011 to 2023 in the roles of Director, President, Chairman of the Board, Secretary and Treasurer. During his tenure, the RMF Board purchased the North End of Ragged Mountain in CT and Hanging Mountain in Sandisfield, MA, permanently protecting access for climbers and hikers. He also helped coordinate a number of crag stewardship projects in CT and helped create the Crag Steward program.
When Nate isn’t climbing he enjoys kayaking, gravel biking, screen printing, travel, and running around outside with his rescue dogs.