If you’re looking for an exciting way to get active, the WVU Climbing Wall at the Student Recreation Center should be at the top of your list! With its impressive 50-foot height and over 3,500 square feet of climbing surface, this wall is like no other and is a playground for climbers of all levels. Let’s dive into what makes this climbing wall a must-visit!
Imagine scaling a wall equipped with more than 2,000 interchangeable handholds. Whether you’re into crack climbs, overhangs, dihedrals, or arêtes, there’s a challenge waiting for you. Not to mention the bouldering cave and low-angle slab wall that will challenge even the most seasoned climbers. It’s not just climbing; it’s an experience!
The climbing wall has something for everyone: bouldering, top rope climbing, belay
classes, aerial silks and fun competitions.
Climbing Terminology Breakdown:
- Bouldering: Climbing without a harness, staying close to the ground with padding for safety.
- Top Rope Climbing: Climbing with a harness and rope, belayed by qualified individuals.
- Belaying: Managing the rope to keep climbers safe.
- Sport Climbing: Climbing to the top of the wall with a belayer's assistance.
Getting Started
The climbing wall is open to Student Recreation Center patrons and their guests. Children under the age of 15 must be under direct adult supervision.
No gear? No problem! You can rent everything you need for free, including shoes, harnesses, helmets, and chalk bags. If you have your own gear, it just needs to be checked by a staff member.
Programs that elevate your skills
The climbing wall offers a variety of programs throughout the year that cater to all interests, including belay classes, aerial acrobatics and climbing competitions!
Belay Classes
Have you ever wanted to learn how to belay? These 90-minute classes are perfect for you! Priced at just $10, they teach essential skills for safely belaying at the climbing wall. Open to anyone aged 16 and up, you’ll be well-equipped to support your climbing friends in no time. To register for a belay class, visit
Aerial Acrobatics
If you’re looking for something a little different than climbing on the climbing wall, check out the aerial acrobatics classes! These sessions teach you how to maneuver specialized fabric suspended from the climbing wall, combining climbing skills with an artistic flair.
Classes include introductory aerial silks and aerial hammocking classes, as well as intermediate aerial silks and aerial hammocking classes. The introductory classes are perfect for beginners, and will teach the fundamental techniques and a couple of skills. The intermediate classes are geared towards those who have tried aerial silks or aerial hammocking at least once before.
The Intro Aerial Silks and Intro Aerial Hammocking upcoming class dates range from October 2, 2024 to October 31, 2024. These classes are $5.00 and will be held from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM on class dates. The Intermediate Aerial Hammocking class will take place on November 11, 2024 and the Intermediate Aerial Silks class will take place on November 20, 2024. These classes are $10.00 and will be held from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM on class dates. To find out more information about class dates and to register for classes, visit our
Climbing Competitions
Feeling competitive? The climbing wall hosts bouldering and top-rope competitions throughout the year. These events are open to all WVU students, faculty, and staff, so gather your friends and show off your skills! To see details about periodic competitions and events, check out our Competitions and Special Events page!
Come Climb!
Whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting out, the WVU Climbing Wall is an amazing place to challenge yourself, meet new friends, and have a blast. With so many programs and events, you’ll never run out of things to do. So lace up your climbing shoes and get ready to reach new heights! For more information on the climbing wall, classes, competitions and events, make sure to check out our Climbing Wall website. Happy climbing!