Rock climbing is a unique and exciting sport that challenges the body and the mind. Our amazing 30-foot Barreca Climbing Wall is designed to accommodate climbers of all ability levels starting from age 5. 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 at buop@bu.edu if you have questions! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for upcoming events and programs.
Currently hiring for summer and fall 2026! Please complete our hiring form if you are interested.
Welcome to the Barreca Climbing Wall
First time user? Please watch this orientation video and sign our new user agreement prior to checking in with our climbing wall staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of climbing can I do at the climbing wall and do I need to be certified to climb?
We offer three types of climbing at our wall: Bouldering, top roping and lead climbing. Bouldering involves climbing on shorter walls without a rope with soft pads below to jump or safely fall onto. The only requirements for bouldering at our wall are climbing shoes, which can be rented from the pro shop, and listening to a short safety orientation with our staff. After that, the wall is yours to climb!
Top rope climbing involves both the climber and belayer to wear a climbing harness, and for the climber to tie into one end of a rope secured to a fixed anchor at the top of the climbing route. The other side of the rope comes down and connects to the belayer. In order to top rope at our wall, you must pass a belay test, offered during open rec, from our climbing wall staff.
Finally, lead climbing is a form of climbing in which the climber clips their rope into fixed anchors as they ascend their route while their partner, at the base of the wall, lead belays for them. Like with top rope climbing, you must obtain a lead climbing certification by taking a lead belay test during open recreation lead climbing times.
What equipment do I need and where do I get it?
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
Is there a pass I can purchase for unlimited gear rentals throughout the semester?
There sure is! Our semester gear pass is exactly what you are looking for.
What lead climbing options are available?
Lead climbing during open rec is available to those with a BU Climbing Wall lead certification card displayed on their harness at all times. If you do not currently hold a BU lead certification card, you can schedule a test by filling out this form.
Reach out to buop@bu.edu to schedule a private or group lead climbing class. Classes will be scheduled on an “as-needed” basis.
Program Refund Policy
Learn More
Participants are responsible for understanding the refund policy for the Outdoor Programs climbing program(s) they are registering for:
More than 7 days before the date of first class: A FULL refund will be given
Less than 7 days before the date of first class: A 50% refund will be given
NO REFUNDS will be given to those who cancel within 48 hours regardless of the circumstance.
Outdoor Programs does not issue refunds for climbing programs that are not attended. Outdoor Programs reserves the right not to issue a refund at the discretion of the program administrators.
Private Climbing Lessons and Belay Sessions
Lessons can be customized to fit your goals, from lead climbing and rappelling to learning the basics. Inquire about gym to crag and other outdoor climbing lessons!
Semi-private lessons are available for groups of 2-3 people. Each person must purchase an individual lesson or pack.
Register for private belay sessions if you just want some time on the ropes! Grab a few friends and have the climbing wall all to yourself. This private event can be scheduled for groups of 2-8, and each participant must purchase an individual pass. Events can be scheduled on Sundays between 2-5pm.
Once you register, someone from our team will reach out to schedule. Email buop@bu.edu with any questions.
Come climb with our various communities at the BU climbing wall in a comfortable and encouraging environment! These events are for climbers of all skill levels, whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned pro, everyone is welcome.
Don't have climbing gear? No problem! These events are free of charge AND include climbing shoe, harness and chalk bag rentals.
Interested in learning how to belay with your community members? Learn to belay classes will be held from 5:30-7pm during these events. Click on each event for more details on pricing and registration. Drop-ins welcome!
