THE GREAT INDOORS: WASATCH GYM CLIMBING by Patrick L Welsh
The Wasatch is full of amazing climbing areas, but when summer heat and winter snows force people off the rock, there is still plenty of good climbing available.
Indoor gym climbing has not only given Wasatch locals a chance to play on the rocks when the weather dictates otherwise, but it has also contributed to the Herculean strength found in the area regulars. People are now able to train year round, whenever they please, with some gyms including yoga and other exercise options as well. Currently there are three
excellent gyms right within minutes of Salt Lake City’s boundaries.
Rockreation, was one of the first gyms in the area. It offers 7,500 sq ft. of textured climbing, with a 45 ft high point. It also has a large bouldering area, top roping, lead sport climbing, and exercise/gym space. Rockreation also does birthdays, team building exercises, and summer camps. The climbing here is fun and varied, with many different angles and difficulties to climb.
Day passes cost $15 and adult monthly memberships are $50. They are located at 2074 E 3900 S in Salt Lake, in the Black Diamond complex. Call them at 801-278-7473 or email them at rockreation.com.
The Front Climbing Club is located on the other end of the Salt Lake Valley. They have a 10,000 sq ft space that includes mostly bouldering, top rope sport, and a small crack section. Also included are a game room, gym/weight room, small climbing shop, and yoga space.
Birthdays and small group activities can be scheduled as well. The climbing here is fun, well padded, and wide open; with a main emphasis on bouldering. Day passes are $15 a day and monthly adult memberships go for $50. The Front is located at 1450 S 400 W in Salt Lake. Call them at 801-466-ROCK (7625) or contact them by email at frontslc.com.
Momentum Climbing Club is the newest of the Wasatch climbing gyms. It has 20,000 sq ft of textured climbing including a 4,000 sq ft bouldering area, a separate kid's area, and 80 ft of top rope, lead, and crack climbing areas. There is also a full gym/exercise area, a café, and yoga space. The climbing here is fun, higher than other gyms, varied in aspect and difficulty, and wide open. It is all accentuated by a 50 ft bay window that looks out at Lone Peak and Big Willow Cirque). They also do birthdays and summer camps. Momentum is located at 230 W 10600 S in Sandy, next to REI and
South Town Mall. Contact them at 801-830-4818 or via email at momentumclimbing.com.
If you are looking to join a club to up your ability or you simply want to experience or try the sport of climbing in a low risk environment, try it out at these locations. They all have experienced, qualified, and helpful staff who are ready to assist climbers of all experience levels. It’s a guaranteed thrill, no matter who you are.