Where are the rock climbing gyms in Boston?

September 7, 2008 11:15 AM

Rock climbing gym in Boston area?

I just moved to Boston from San Francisco, where I loved climbing at Mission Cliffs, the rock climbing gym there. I can't seem to find anything similar in Boston though - any ideas? I technically live in Needham, so a gym west of Boston would be better.

posted by Maia to Health & Fitness (6 answers total)

Most of the YMCAs in the area have good climbing walls. Probably not as big or as nice as what your used to but you can practice. There's also the Boston Rock Gym and MetroRock but they might be more expensive/further away then your looking but the are better then YMCA.
posted by lilkeith07 at 11:33 AM on September 7, 2008

Me too. I used to climb at Ironworks, but just moved Bostonwards a week ago.

Metro is accessible on the Orange line; I've been there and while it's no Ironworks/MissionCliffs, it's really not bad. I'm planning on going there regularly-- last time I went I walked from the Orange line stop but they also run a shuttle for nighttime/cold weather.

Ratings are different (read: harder, or maybe I'm out of shape) here though. Membership there is on par costwise with the SF system.

I haven't been to Boston Rock Gym (I'm carless, and it's not really accessible) but I've heard it is a bigger place, you might try it out.

This site gives a map of all indoor climbing locations; looks like there are some closer to Needham.

Also of course there's (seasonally) plenty of outdoor climbing-- I don't know much about it yet, but I'm sure you'll find info on it by a quick google. Do share if you find something that looks promising; other CA transplants (read: me!) want to know!
posted by nat at 11:47 AM on September 7, 2008

Second MetroRock, and the shuttle will come pick you up from the Orange Line any time, not just at night/in the winter.
posted by ubersturm at 1:30 PM on September 7, 2008

Actually they wont' come get you in the day during the summer; then they are using it for summer camps. But even in that case the walk is short. (And I don't think most people would be trying to go to the gym then, anyhow).
posted by nat at 5:16 PM on September 7, 2008

Response by poster: I think I'm going to check out the rock wall at MIT first (cause it's $10/year) but I'm not sure if they'll let me use it or not. Thanks everyone!
posted by Maia at 5:31 PM on September 7, 2008

Skip the MIT wall, its just a squash court turned bouldering cave. Great if its two minutes from your office and free, but otherwise not so good. Its also hella crowded, due to the small space.

Having said that, its a super low key and friendly place and Hugh Herr climbs there.
posted by bumpkin at 7:02 PM on September 7, 2008