Oberlin College Athletics

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» The Climbing Wall & Bouldering Cave Manual (PDF)(.pdf)
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The vision of several Outing Club members in the early 1990's came to fruition with the completion of the Climbing Wall in the spring of 2003. The wall is an integral part of the Oberlin College community as students, faculty & staff, and community members have the opportunity to utilize the indoor rock climbing and hone their skills on the wall and bouldering cave in the North Lobby of Philips Gymnasium.

Designed for this specific site and built by NICROS, the wall is a 25-foot tall four-sided pillar with seven anchors for top-roping. On the steepest wall, there are quick-draws for lead climbing routes as well. The bouldering cave provides additional square footage for climbing. With over 1,000 holds of all shapes and sizes, routes are set often to challenge both rookies and experienced climbers alike.

When academic classes are in session, the climbing wall is typically open each day of the week.  During different time segments, blocks of time are designated as "Women and Trans Only Hours", "Family Hours", "Beginner's Hours" and "Advanced Climbing".  Check the hours posted at the wall or on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/oberlinclimbingwall/.

College students are designated and hired as Climbing Wall Supervisors can teach bouldering, climbing, belaying, lead climbing and lead belaying. An ExCo (experimental college) class taught by the students offers a structured introduction to climbing technique.  

The wall is free of charge for all students, faculty & staff, and recreation center members.  Equipment, such as shoes and harnesses, can be loaned out as well.