FAQs

Big Climb is more than a stair climb – it’s an inspiring & moving experience. As you take on each step you will be uplifted by inspirational stories of survivorship and the impact LLS is making in the fight against blood cancers – all while your community cheers you on. 

 

REGISTRATION FEE 

Registration is FREE for all participants up to 30 days before your event. After the 30-day mark, registrants pay $50 to make the Big Climb experience special in every city – separate from your fundraising. 

  

FUNDRAISING 

Is there a fundraising minimum?
Big Climb’s fundraising commitment is $150 for adults and $50 for kids and teens. As Big Climbers are a committed crew, we know your passion will get you to the threshold in no time. And LLS will be there with tools to help you at every step. Get started today! 

Where do my donations go?
All donations from Big Climb help support the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: to cure all blood cancers and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. 

When is the fundraising deadline?
To receive a Big Climb Tech T-shirt, you must reach $250 raised prior to the event day. You also have the opportunity to continue to fundraise after the event to further support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure blood cancer. The more you raise, the more you are rewarded. Check out the recognition page for more information. 

  

GENERAL EVENT 

What is the age minimum allowed to climb?
All participants must be 8 years of age on the day of Big Climb. There will be no exceptions to this rule. 

How do teams work?
When you sign up as a team, you are signing up to climb at the same time slot. Your team captain will submit preferences, when prompted by LLS, for climb times and the whole team climbs during that time. No exceptions. 

Can I change my start time?
No. All start times are final. No exceptions. 

 

DAY OF EVENT 

What time does the event start?
The first wave will take off at 9:00 am. 

Can I register on event day?
Registration will be available onsite starting from 5:00 am until 12:00 pm. Those who register in person may have to wait for an available wave time and may have to climb separately from requested participants or teams.    

Where can I park?
Participants can park on public streets or park in the Empire State Plaza parking lots. A map can be found here.

Can I take public transportation to/from the event?
Big Climb Capital Region is accessible by public transportation. Additional information can be found here.  

Can I bring anything with me during the climb other than my phone?
Climbers may bring baby carriers if necessary. 

Is there a bag check area provided?
There will be a free bag check area for personal items in the registration area.  

What time should I arrive?
30-45 minutes prior to your assigned start time. Please take into consideration the time it will take you to find parking. 

Where do I line up for my climb time?
Announcements will be made 15 minutes prior to your start time. 

How many steps will I be climbing?
Participants will climb over 800 steps. 

Where are water stops?
There will be water stops placed throughout Corning Tower.   

Will food be available at the event?
Food will be available for all climbers who earn entry into the Summit Club. 

Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
Your friends and family may wait for you at the registration area. There is no spectator access along the climb route. 

What is the Summit Club?
The Summit Club offers an exclusive experience for climbers who have fundraised $1,000 or more prior to the event. Snacks and beverages at the Observation Deck upon completion of the climb. 

What do I do when I’m done climbing?
An elevator will be monitored to take climbers down from the top of the building. 

Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs and other animals are not allowed at the event.