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| - I came here for my first bouldering experience and had a great time! Unlike rock climbing with ropes/harnesses, there is no need to be trained in belaying. You basically show up, sign a waiver, and then you are free to climb. Luckily, I went with someone who has bouldering experience who could give me some technique tips. I think otherwise it would've been pretty intimidating -- the staff do not offer any kind of orientation or guidance. I did ask where to start and the guy at the desk just explained the colour system (different colour routes for different difficulty levels) but didn't really say anything else. There weren't a ton of staff on the floor watching. So you kind of have to be smart and careful to take things at your own pace and know your limits, so you don't get injured. I guess that's what the waiver is for!
The facility is really open, clean and organized. I found that 1.5-2 hours was more than enough time for a beginner like me (by the end, I could barely hang on because my hands were so sore! My arms definitely felt sore afterwards!). For $26 ($20 day pass + $6 shoe rental), I thought it was pretty decent value for a fun afternoon activity. Even when I needed to take a break, it was fun to watch other people tackle the different routes. I would say that if you are a beginner, there are a good number of manageable routes, but I have heard that at other gyms there may be more beginner-friendly options. They have a gym area at the back with rings and places to work on grip strength.
They sell snacks, shoes, clothing, and chalk (definitely needed). The changeroom has an area to leave your stuff, but no lockers (so bring your valuables into the climbing area, there are areas you can leave stuff). There are 2 changerooms, as the washroom/change room is co-ed. There is 1 shower.
I came on a weekend and it was busy, but it did not feel overcrowded, as there's room to spread out and you are not climbing non-stop. There are only a few people up on the wall at any given time.
I'd recommend this for anyone curious about bouldering or looking for a new fitness challenge! Definitely a fun activity to do in a group as well.
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