The City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department just announced new climbing walls will open at a city park.
The opening of two bouldering structures at Highland Park on Grand Ave is coming up.
Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that doesn’t require ropes because the walls are shorter than typical rock-climbing walls.
In a city news release, it says the structures are part of a temporary installation in partnership with the resident-led Grand Rapids Boulder Project that is expected to remain in the park for three to five years. Conversations between the Grand Rapids Boulder Project team and the City began in 2017 with the goal of increasing awareness and access to the sport of climbing for free. The walls have multiple routes ranging in difficulty that will change periodically.
Highland Park was selected because of its central location in the city and potential to impact the neighborhood in a positive way. Construction was completely volunteer-led and began in April 2022.
Kyle Heys of the Grand Rapids Boulder Project, says quote, “Climbing is something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities,” he adds, “I’m so excited to share my passion for the sport with newcomers and long-time climbers alike.
The Parks and Recreation Department and Grand Rapids Boulder Project will host a grand opening celebration on July 9 from 9 am to 2 p.m
Following the grand opening, the Grand Rapids Boulder Project team will host free instructional drop-in climbing clinics.
