Climbing & Bouldering Wall

Types of climbing

The Climbing & Bouldering Wall is open free of charge to all Notre Dame students, faculty, and staff. Children under 18 are not permitted to use the facility. Before entry, you must sign the climbing wall waiver and take a brief orientation of the facility with a staff member. We offer two types of climbing in the facility:

1. Top Rope Climbing: This type of climbing is done on the taller vertical wall and requires a partner and special equipment. You can come solo or with friends and have one of the staff members belay you up the wall. In top rope climbing, falls are less dramatic because you are attached safely to the rope and depending on the route you choose requires less upper body strength than bouldering. This makes it a popular choice for climbers who are new to the sport. At our gym, we use the Yosemite Decimal system to determine the difficulty of each route.
2. Bouldering: This is a form of climbing where you try to follow a given route to the top of a short wall that does not require you to be roped in. Our bouldering wall is approximately 12' tall and foam mats are placed throughout the space to absorb your landing. Falling is a normal part of rock climbing and in this controlled indoor setting you can practice your skills and get stronger in a safe environment. 

Belay Certification Clinics

The two-hour belay clinic will teach you the basic skills needed to start climbing safely and proficiently. You can expect to learn about the necessary equipment, knots, top rope climbing, belaying, communication, lowering, basic movement techniques, and our facility policies. All necessary equipment is provided. These clinics are limited to the first 8 individuals to sign up. Pre-registration is required. You may register here.

Belay Clinic Schedule| Fall 2026

Belay Test Outs – Walk-Ins

If you already know how to belay with a GriGri using the PBUS (Pull, Brake, Under, Slide) technique, you can attempt to get your belay certification by testing out with one of our staff during normal operating hours. Each step of the test must be performed with 100% accuracy. If you do not pass, you have the option of trying again on a different day or signing up for a free Belay Clinic. Pre-registration for test-outs is not required.

Climbing & Bouldering Wall Policies

Shoes must be worn at all times inside the climbing area. Climbing shoes are available to check out free of charge on a first come first served basis. Closed toe shoes with backs are allowed on the wall. No sandals, Crocs, winter boots, etc. Please consult with staff for shoe approval. You are required to clean off shoes of any dirt, snow, or mud before entering.

Learn more about the climbing and bouldering policies.

Non-standard Hours

Modified Hours

Staff Training | Fall 2026

Floor Replacement | Fall 2026

ACDC Concert | Fall 2026

Fall Break| Fall 2026

Home Football| Fall 2026

Thanksgiving Break| Fall 2026

Christmas & Winter Break| Fall 2026