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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be in very good shape?

What if I have never climbed before?

We run everyone through a basic orientation on how to use their harness, tie into the rope, and work the belay devices, regardless of your previous climbing experience.

What should I wear to climb in?

The gym can be little cold sometimes, but once you get up and climbing you will quickly warm up.  We always suggest that people wear clothes that they can easily move around in (like workout clothes) in layers.

Are there any age restrictions?

You must be 14 years old to belay at The Rock Dump.  You must also be 14 to climb unsupervised (without an adult present).  A child under 14 may climb with a sibling or another person 14 or older with the permission of their parent or legal guardian and a signed Warranty and Release from The Rock Dump.  There are, however NO AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR CLIMBING.  We have special harnesses for very small children, and we have had kids as young as 4 and 5 years olds climb all over the gym.  We do, however, also have small children that refuse to climb, get scared, cry, wet their pants, throw gravel, complain constantly, and sometimes pout.

Do I need someone to climb with?

At The Rock Dump, we do not belay for climbers.  It is always a good idea to bring someone to climb with or have someone to belay for you.  We also have a bouldering area in which you can climb without ropes.  People are generally pretty nice about belaying others, but we can not guarantee that there will be people here that are willing to belay other people.

Do I need to reserve time to climb in advance?

No, you do not need to reserve time to climb in advance.  You can come in any time and learn how to climb.  If you are going to bring in a group you should look at our group prices.  In order to reserve a group session and receive the group rate you must book the group in advance.