Bouldering is a type of rock climbing performed without harnesses or ropes. To boulder, you simply need a pair of climbing shoes and a general sense of how to boulder and fall safely.
Bouldering is dynamic and is generally meant to be challenging climbing packed into about 15 feet of climbing. We set routes for the novice and expert climber with a variety of styles from steep explosive movements to technical slabby sequences. Our facility has 12 inch pads under the bouldering walls as well as strategically placed down climb jugs to help climb down as needed.
If you are new to climbing and interested in an introductory course, check out our Intro to Climbing Class.
What is Bouldering?
Top Rope Climbing is the type of climbing you likely think of when you think of rock climbing. At Gravity Lab we have a total of 14 lanes of roped climbing ranging from beginner to expert routes. Top Rope climbing requires harnesses, ropes and belay devices. The rope runs from a climber through an anchor at the top of a climb and back down to a belayer who manages the rope, catches a climber’s falls and lowers a climber back down when done climbing.
In order to Top Rope, you’ll need to learn and display competencies in safe top rope technique, risk awareness, climber communication and gear knowledge.
If you are interested in learning how to top rope, check out our top rope and belay class.
What is Top Rope climbing?
What you need to bring.
Bring athletic clothing, snacks, and a learners mind and be prepared to have some fun. We’ll take care of the rest. Our required Bouldering 101 and Facility Orientation will set you up to safely try out the sport of indoor climbing. We have rental shoes, chalk bags and harnesses for you. Our friendly and helpful staff are always excited to provide support and answer questions in the spirit of providing a welcoming experience for new climbers. Please be sure to read our facility rules and policies as well.
New to climbing? We got you.
What you need to know and FAQs
+Do I have to make an appointment?
Appointments are not required. You can get started with bouldering and other facilities amenities with a simple orientation. Climbing on ropes requires some additional skill, knowledge and a certification process.
+Are rentals included in the cost of the day pass?
Rentals are not included in the cost of the day pass or membership. Shoe and harness rentals are $5 each.
+What are the age limits in order to climb at Gravity Lab?
Children between the age of 4-14 can climb at Gravity Lab under direct supervision of an adult. You must be over the age of 14 to belay in the climbing gym. Anyone under 18 needs a waiver signed by a parent/guardian.
+Can I bring a group to the gym?
Yes, but please contact us first. We have limited space and can’t accommodate unplanned group visits. Please contact Gravity Lab to reserve and schedule any group event.
+What do I have to do to top rope or belay?
You will need to be 14 or older and pass our top rope and belay certification displaying adequate proficiency in basic risk awareness and skill related to top rope climbing and belaying.
+Do I have to wear climbing shoes?
Climbing shoes are required for anyone climbing, even children.
+What kind of belay devices are allowed?
At Gravity Lab, we only allow GriGri assisted braking belay devices. All of our roped climbs are equipped with GriGri belay devices.
+Do you have auto belays?
Yes, we have several auto belays that rotate between our 9 top rope lanes. You’ll need be certified in order to use the auto belay devices.
+Can I sign the liability waiver ahead of time?
YES! You can sign the waiver online on our website.
+Can I share my punch pass?
You are welcome to share your punch pass as much as you'd like. You just need to present in order to share a punch.
+Can my child under 4 be at Gravity Lab?