Boulder's elite climbing gyms attract climbers from all over the U.S., including the likes of Daniel Woods, Chris Sharma and Steph Davis. Why? Because they're fun, challenging and bold, plus they offer some of the most difficult indoor climbing routes in the country.
Movement Climbing and Fitness
Boulderites love their outdoor recreation, and when they’re not outside being active, they’re inside training to . . . well, be outside. That being said, there is no better place to train for your Colorado adventures than Movement Climbing and Fitness gym.
High places at Movement Climbing — Photo courtesy of Movement Climbing + Fitness Boulder
Whether you’re a rock-climber, mountaineering enthusiast, cyclist, runner or an overachiever who does it all, Movement has something to help you train longer, dig deeper and play harder.
Highlights:
- The locker room areas and showers are well kept and make getting ready for work or a night out after climbing easy and comfortable.
- Climbing routes range from novice to advanced and are changed regularly to ensure that you don't get too complacent.
- Amphitheater-like seating allows you to watch climbing that is taking place at nearly every angle of the gym.
- The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Most are climbers who are more than willing to give you tips, suggest fun routes and provide you with band-aids when you scrape yourself up on the wall. (We know from experience.)
Boulder Rock Club
One of the oldest gyms in town, this climbing gym has a more, shall we say, laid-back feeling than Movement. It also offers textured walls and more overhanging routes.
Rock hounds — Photo courtesy of Boulder Rock Club
Highlights:
- One of the bouldering walls allows those who top-out on a route to come back down on a slide. Wheeee!
- Crack-climbing classes and outdoor adventure classes are offered.
- If you're more of a "dirt-bag" climber and hard-core but in it for the pure joy of the sport, the BRC is for you.
The Spot
This bouldering joint is specifically for rock hounds who prefer to remain unroped. Islands of routes await the skilled boulderer, as well as the newbies; there are only a few top-rope routes. You'll spend most of your time free climbing (and falling). But never fear, there's soft padding on the floors and local breweries nearby to sooth your ego.
Crushing it — Photo courtesy of Spot Gym
Highlights:
- Whereas the other two gyms in town cater mostly to roped climbing, The Spot is specifically for bouldering.
- The Spot is known for its frequent and exciting rock climbing events, including competitions.
All that being said, check out one or all of these famous gyms, and climb on!
