Red Barn Climbing Gym

Justin Ziegler 2 months ago

As a frequent boulderer passing through the area while on vacation — if you are a fan of classic, more old-school style gyms (or looking for a great deal on a day-pass, $9 wow!) do not miss the chance to visit The Red Barn. The environment is truly unique, a taste of outdoor air on old school indoor routes. (Make sure to check out both upstairs and downstairs for the best and most varied experience.) The staff was friendly and communicative and the waiver and day-pass purchase process was effortless and quick. Some routes seemed slightly stiff coming from corporate gyms with friendlier holds but offer unique puzzles in a style that those same corporate gyms tend to shy away from. Worth noting, temperature and humidity is subject to the weather much in the same way it is outdoors so plan and prepare accordingly. Overall, if you’re a climber interested in bouldering in all of its various forms, don’t miss out — you’ll likely never have the chance to climb in a barn again!

Christin Napierkowski 5 months ago

In terms of price, options, and ability levels, this is the best climbing deal in the city for sure. It can be cramped sometimes because it’s a small place and weather can determine whether it’s warm or cold inside, but these are known things and everyone is cool with it. It’s a welcoming community.

Becca Rogers 2 years ago

First and foremost, this is purely a bouldering gym, there is no roped climbing, so if that's what you're looking for this isn't it. But if you are down for just bouldering it's very affordable. Additionally I find the route setting is consistently my favorite over the years (I've climbed in the other Rochester gyms and several places out of town), I think it's because climbing and setting classes are taught there; the difficulty ratings are accurate and the solutions often naturally teach techniques and good form implicitly. The space is a bit rough looking but functional and safe. Lastly I find that the college kids that are the most frequent patrons are generally friendly and open to a collaborative experience, so even if you're going alone you can usually find people to chat and help you puzzle routes out.

Sean Harris Edited 7 years ago

My favorite bouldering gym! They don’t do harness/rope climbing here anymore. But that’s even better in my opinion. Keeps the prices down. Only $6 for a day pass! $3 for shoe rental! There are heaters but in the winter it gets cold so dress warm. They also have a downstairs which stays warmer.

Carson Labash 7 years ago

Phenomenal two-level bouldering gym for adults. Prices are unbeatable, staff are friendly, and there are plenty of routes for all skill levels. It may be relevant to some to mention that there is no top rope and no non-student minors are allowed inside.