Division of Student Affairs : Climbing Wall

Climbing Wall
So you're interested in climbing, but you may find yourself asking...now what?  The climb wall is a great way to meet new people, have fun, get a good workout and learn something new and challenging!  So next time you're at the Rec, give it a try!

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 3 p.m.-close
Saturday and Sunday: Open to close

The wall may be closed to recreation climbing during scheduled events or classes.

Using the Wall
Bouldering (moving horizontally across the wall) may be done at any time during open hours and does not require any gear or experience. It's also free!  For safety reasons, stay below the yellow designated line and wear only clean climbing or tennis shoes on the wall.  Users under 14 years of age must have a spotter.

Users who wish to top rope (vertical climb) must successfully complete a climb clinic and purchase a climb card.  When coming in to top rope, climbers must show the supervising staff member their valid climb card and a photo ID.  Climbers may bring in their own shoes or harness, but must use the REC's ropes and belay devices.  Loose chalk is not permitted.  Chalk bags and climbing shoes are available for rent at the REC for $2 each.

Climb Clinics
Want to learn a new and extreme sport?  Want to meet cool new people? Want to see how strong you really are?  Looking for a way to spice up your work out?  Let's see if YOU are up for the challenge! Stop reading this and get to the wall as our trained staff takes you from the ground to the top as you "learn the ropes" in one climb clinic that will leave you with a new skill and wanting to learn more!

After the class, you have the option to buy a climb card, while will allow you to freely climb to the top whenever you want!  And of course - we'll start right from the basics, so NO EXPERIENCE is needed!  And best of all?  It's FREE!  (now what kind of college kid wouldn't want a deal like that?)

The clinic will teach you everything you need to know, including proper belay techniques, language and tying knots.  You must be able to demonstrate mastery of the skills at the clinic and take a short (and easy!) test.  Climb cards can be purchased after successfully completing a climb clinic.

Climb Wall Memberships (must complete climb clinic)
$180 includes 1 year climb card and 40 SRC visits
$50 includes 3 month climb card and 10 SRC visits

Climb Review
If you have climbing experience and feel that you could demonstrate such procedures as tying knots, belaying strokes, and use of equipment then you should take the climb review. This involves a 15 minute test of your skills. After successful demonstration of your knowledge and skill, you will have the opportunity  to purchase a climb card.  

   Basic Climb Clinic and Review Times are as follows:  

Review times are posted at the CAVE and on the display case at the bottom of the stairs or call 419.530.3700 for more information.

Climbing Classes
The College of Health and Human Services offers climbing classes for academic credit for basic level.   For more information, see H&HS course descriptions.

Fall 08 Classes:  

Basic Rock Climbing            RCA 1010 -044           TR        2:00-2:50      

Basic Rock Climbing             RCA-1010-045          TR        3:00-3:50          

Intermediate Rock Climbing  RCA 1010- 042           TR        2:00-2:50     

Climb Cave Rules

• Users must be at least 6 years old to climb and must fit securely in a harness (seat or full body). Users must be at least 14 years old to belay.
• Climbing requires a partner - it takes 2 to climb.
• All participants under 14 must have adult supervision at all times.
• All participants under 14 must be spotted by an adult when bouldering.
• Proper belay techniques & commands must be used at all times.
• Climbers are required to use SRC ropes, carabiners, and belay devices.
• Participants may use the following personal equipment providing it is staff approved: harness, shoes, helmets, and chalk bag. Loose chalk is not permitted.
• Shoes & a chalk bag may be rented @ $2 each. Helmets are provided if the climber so chooses.
• Climbing or athletic shoes are required, open toe or hard soled shoes are prohibited
• Climbers must stay below the designated height when bouldering.
• One climber per route. Do not boulder or climb under another climber.
• Jewelry that dangles, excessively loose clothing, and items in pockets must be removed when climbing or belaying. Secure these items outside of the climbing wall in lockers provided. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
• Any damaged or loose holds must be immediately brought to the attention of the SRC wall staff. Only the SRC Climbing Wall Staff has the authority to move, remove, or alter any holds or route markings.
• Never hold or grab a lead climbing anchor.
• Quick descents or swinging from the rope will not be permitted.
• Spectators’ viewing is in the west game room. Dependents of users may observe from the lower level, outside the cave, through the glass wall.
• The SRC Climbing Wall staff has authority to enforce all climbing wall policies.
• Any violation may result in suspension of climbing wall privileges.
• Wall supervisors may not belay or serve as a spotter.

Advanced Climb Clinics

Each patron that wishes to participate in the Advanced Climb Clinic must have a current climb card issued from the SRC. The climbing equipment that will be necessary for the Advanced Climb Clinic will be provided for the participants. The equipment that will be provided is Climbing Harness, Climbing Shoes, Chalk, and any other equipment that would be necessary to perform the Advanced climbing skills.

Due to the nature of rock climbing and its inherent risk factors, which may result in injuries. All participants that go over the bouldering line MUST  be on a top-rope belay at all times. Also all other rules of the SRC climb Cave will be enforced during the Advanced Climb Clinic.