Meet Our Team

Kris first stepped into a rock climbing gym in 2007. Years of travel and adventure gave Kris an understanding and a hunger, which ultimately led to the decision that building a climbing gym would help build a community. After visiting several gyms and crags in the USA with his brother, Cliff Hangers took hold. Prior to Cliff Hangers, Kris worked as director of admin for Action Express Racing, taught school and audio engineering. Spare time activities include music, art, and carpentry.

Keith Johnson fell in love with rock climbing back in 2009 and has been climbing ever since. Years of being avidly involved in counter-culture sports, rock climbing was the obvious evolutionary next step on his list. Once he and his brother conceived Cliff Hangers, they set their sights on building their climbing gym in the Lake Norman area from the ground up, to deliver a completely original and groundbreaking experience.

Prior to launching Cliff Hangers, Keith was a crew chief for Action Express Racing, a Daytona prototype sports car race team. With a lengthy career in racing, he came to a fork in the road and decided to take a path less traveled.

When he’s not at Cliff Hangers or climbing some of his favorite spots in the southeast you may find him wake surfing, wake boarding, and spending time with his family. He is the proud father of one new little climber. Keep an eye out for his future little crusher!

Liz has been working here at Cliff Hangers since April 2021. She moved here from the sunshine state of Florida during her earlier years of life. Outside of work she enjoys being with friends, concerts, being outdoors, and climbing of course. Since working here at Cliff Hangers she has become part of our coaching staff and has recently become the summer camp coordinator!

Scott is our head instructor and competitive Team Coach. Climbing on and off for over 10 years, he says he’d prefer a relaxed day in Linville Gorge over crimping hard on boulders any day. When he's not at the gym, you can find him looking for the best Thia spot or cheering on his favorite football club, Manchester United. If you have any questions about climbing or classes, Scott’s your guy.