Frequently asked Questions
Have some questions about climbing?
FAQs
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During your first visit, you will receive a quick, 10-minute orientation of the facility, after which you will be free to use our auto belays and bouldering wall. Our staff are available to guide you and offer the chance to try out top roping, as well.
If you find yourself enjoying climbing, sign up for a belay lesson and learn how to get on the ropes on your own!
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We suggest you wear comfortable non-restrictive clothing, such as joggers and a loose-fitting t-shirt. Make sure you have socks if you plan on wearing rental shoes, or bring your own clean indoor shoes. We also recommend tying long hair back to ensure it doesn’t get tangled in equipment.
Bring some water, too; it’s hard work!
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Yes, we offer rentals for harnesses, shoes, and belay devices. Rentals are included in the cost of drop-in and programs.
You are welcome to bring your own clean indoor shoes or climbing equipment.
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There is no age limit at The Arch! We have routes for all ages and physical abilities. Most kids can start as young as 4, depending on their motor control and enthusiasm.
However, there are a few equipment limitations to consider:
The auto belay weight range is 30–300 lbs.
Rental shoes range from kids size 11 to adult size 14.
Kids rental harnesses require a minimum height of 94 cm. Adult/Teen rental harnesses have a maximum waist circumference of 120 cm.
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During public drop in, children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult to supervise and help them manage the auto belays and/or top ropes.
If your child is 13 or older and can responsibly manage the auto belays/top ropes, they may climb on their own.
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Yes! Our memberships are limited due to drop-ins being managed by the BSRC; however, we still have a few options.
Memberships are acquired by registering for one of our Clubs, providing coaching opportunities and free admission to Club Nights, local competitions, and other events hosted at The Arch.
If you don’t want to register for a Club, punch passes are also available for Club Nights.
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Belaying is what the person on the ground is doing to keep the climber safe. They are making sure the rope goes up with the climber so in the event of a fall, the climber is caught by the rope and the counter weight of the belayer.
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An auto belay is a great tool for climbing on your own. No experience is necessary; we’ll show you how to use them during your facility orientation.
Children under 13 must be supervised on the auto belays by an adult who’s completed an orientation.
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In order to belay in our facility, you must pass a belay test. This test covers putting on a harness, tying a figure eight knot, setting up a belay device, communication, lowering, and arresting a fall.
If you know how to belay, you can take the test. If not, we encourage you to sign up for a belay lesson.
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Yes, but first you have to pass a belay test, as is required by most climbing gyms.
You do not need to learn to belay here, but you do need to pass our belay test!
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Because safety is crucial when belaying, a quick refresher is often not enough to be confident that you’ve committed the skill to long term memory, so we don’t offer any "refreshers". If it’s been over a year, sign up for a belay lesson.
It’s better to be fully confident when you have your friends on the other end of the rope!
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Yes, all participants must fill out a waiver before entering the climbing area. Anyone under the age of 18 will need their waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. The waiver can be accessed here.
