Climbing
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Climbing Overview
Stanford boasts one of the highest quality collegiate climbing facilities in the nation. Climbing is open to Stanford affiliates, and routes are designed to be accessible to everyone – from beginners to experienced climbers.
Our climbing facility is located within one of the two major recreation centers on campus: Arrillaga Outdoor Education & Recreation Center (AOERC).
Youth and Family Access
View Youth and Family Access Hours
- Children under 18 years old are allowed to climb during Youth and Family Access hours.
- The minimum age to climb is 4 years old.
- Only two participants under 16 years old are allowed per adult.
- Children under 16 years old must be under direct supervision by an adult at all times.
- Children who boulder may not exceed a height of two-times their body length.
- Participants under 16 years old cannot belay.
- In order to top-rope, children must be accompanied and belayed by a belay-certified adult.
Climbing Wall FAQ and More Info
What can I do at the Stanford Climbing Wall?
You can boulder, top-rope, or lead!
What should I expect for my first time coming into the climbing wall?
Let the staff know that it is your first time at the wall! They will show you our safety video and answer any questions that you may have. They will also get you set up with climbing shoes if you need them. Remember to bring socks!
How do I get better at climbing?
Check out our classes! We offer both skill based and technique classes taught by our top notch instructors.
What equipment can I borrow at the climbing wall?
We rent out climbing shoes, harnesses, ATCs and carabiners, and lead ropes. (Not chalk).
When can I take a belay test? What about a lead test?
You can take a belay test anytime during open hours of the gym. Just ask the staff and they can help you! For lead tests, only some of the staff are able to give lead tests so come in and ask what times those usually can happen. It changes every quarter. You need to be top rope belay certified before you can take a lead test.
How often do the walls get reset?
Our setters put up new routes on Mondays and Wednesdays. They do not reset the whole gym during that time, but you can expect to see a few new routes up and a few routes removed each week.
Can I bring a guest to the climbing wall?
Yes! They will have to purchase a guest pass at the front desk of AOERC in order to gain access to the building, but once they can access the building they can come into the climbing wall!
Does the Stanford Climbing Wall sell chalk?
We do not sell anything at the climbing wall but the Outdoor Center sells chalk and tape. See their hours here.
Can I host an event at the Stanford Climbing Wall?
Yes! If you are interested in hosting a Stanford affiliated event, please email dearhart@stanford.edu to get more information.
Does the climbing wall have an instagram?
Yes! Follow us at @stanfordclimbingwall. We post about upcoming events, cool new sets, and changes to facility hours.
Is the Stanford Climbing Wall hiring?
Maybe! It depends on the quarter and how many returning staff we have. If you are interested, send in an application! Linked here.
What should I expect for my first time coming into the climbing wall?
Let the staff know that it is your first time at the wall! They will show you our safety video and answer any questions that you may have. They will also get you set up with climbing shoes if you need them. Remember to bring socks!
- ALL bags MUST be stored in lockers OUTSIDE the climbing wall.
- Locks are available for purchase or rent at the AOERC front desk.
- Rental shoes and harnesses will be available. Socks must be worn with rental shoes.
- Capacity: 45 climbers.
- Bouldering, top rope and lead usage are available at this time.
- Liquid chalk and powdered chalk contained in chalk socks are allowed.
- We are currently offering Top Rope Belay Lessons and technique classes.