Climb the Great Wall of FitRec.

FitRec’s Covid-19 policies will continue to be reviewed and updated on an ongoing basis and are subject to change. View the latest information here.

Our amazing 30-foot Barreca Climbing Wall is an endorphin-pumping challenge that uses every muscle in your body, including the one between your ears.  Rock climbing is a unique and exciting sport, and the FitRec wall is designed to accommodate climbers of all ages and ability levels.  Members have free access to our great wall anytime during open recreation hours, and all necessary climbing equipment can be rented from the Pro Shop. Contact us if you have questions!

Here are some commonly asked questions about using the Wall:

Q: Do I need to be certified?

A: We have two types of climbing at the Barreca Climbing Wall: bouldering and rope climbing.

Bouldering involves climbing on shorter walls without a rope over what are called crash pads. When you fall, you land on the pads. Anyone can show up and boulder after a short safety orientation with our staff.

Rope climbing can be separated into two categories: top rope and lead. Top rope climbing involves tying into a rope that is anchored on the other side by a person known as a belayer. This allows you to climb taller walls more safely. If you are interested in trying top rope but are not belay certified you can come in during open rec and have one of our staff belay you. If you know how to top rope belay and have not taken our belay test, you can take the test at any time during open recreation hours. If you do not know how to belay and want to try top roping, we recommend that you take our learn to belay class. If you are interested in learning more about lead climbing, please look into our lead belay class that we offer.

Q: Do I need a partner?

A: If you would like to top rope then it is best to bring a partner. If you and/or your partner do not know how to belay, ask our staff if they could belay for you. If it is not too busy, they can help you try it out!

Q: What equipment do I need and where do I get it?

A: We have everything you need available to rent at the FitRec Pro Shop, adjacent to the Climbing Wall. If you are bouldering, all you need are climbing shoes and a chalk bag is optional. If you are top roping, you will need climbing shoes, a harness, and a belay device (unless a staff member is belaying for you). If you are unsure, you can always ask our staff.

Climbing Set (incl. shoes, harness, and chalk bag. Helmet and belay device available on request): $6

• Shoes: $3
• Harness: $3
• Chalk Bag: $1
• Belay Device: $2

LGBTQIA+ Climb Night Series

Come climb with other members of the LGBTQIA+ community in a comfortable and encouraging environment! This event is for climbers of all skill levels, whether you are new to the sport or are a seasoned pro. Everyone is welcome!

Register Here

Women and Nonbinary Climb Nights

Come climb with other women and nonbinary folx! For climbers of all abilities. Tackle new routes and have fun! Walk-ins welcome. Climbing rental equipment is free for these events.

Register Here

Climbing Gear Rental

Rent shoes, a harness, and a chalk bag for the semester. Helmet and belay device available upon request.

Purchase Here

Learn to Belay

This course will prepare you to pass the standard top rope belay test given at every climbing gym. Perfect for those who need a refresher or want to learn the basics for the first time. Classes are offered Thursdays, 7 – 8:30 pm.

Sign Up

Lead Climbing Class

In this course you will learn how to lead climb and learn advanced belay techniques for giving slack to a lead climber. To enroll in this course, you must be toprope belay certified and be able to climb 5.9 with ease.

Sign Up

Credit Rock Climbing

Register here to pay the $40 Fall Climbing rental fee for PDP OE 140 and PDP OE 340. Please register for these classes on the BU Student Link prior to paying the fee.

Get To Know The Wall

Climbing Gear Semester Pass –  Rather than renting equipment each time you come, this pass will allow you unlimited shoe, harness and chalk rental for the current semester.

And don’t forget our awesome programs for youth and families!

Rent the Wall

Hosting a birthday party or office function? Rent our Barreca Climbing Wall and take your event to new heights.

More Information