Rock climbing is an awesome activity for kids, mainly because most of them are pretty good at it. Natural climbers, flexible bodies and high strength-to-weight ratio means that this activity comes easily to most children, even if team sports aren’t their thing. Climbing is not only great for their physical activity but requires kids to use problem-solving skills and helps them gain confidence. Read on for our favorite rock climbing spots in the Bay Area—all of which feature special programs, camps or teams for kids!
With 11 locations and 193,500 of climbing terrain, Touchstone Climbing is the largest indoor climbing company in the world. All gyms offer kids classes with friendly instructors who are trained to work with climbers of every skill level.
Where: 800 Potter St, Berkeley, CA
If you live closer to Berkley than San Francisco, try Touchstone’s Berkley location, Berkeley Ironworks. Kids can join a climbing team or go to a climbing camp where they’ll learn the knot craft, basic climbing technique and repelling. Ironworks also offers childcare for kids ages six months to six years for $5 for a half hour for non-members and $4 for members.
Where: 2573 3rd St, San Francisco, CA
First-time climbers should head to Dogpatch Boulders. It‘s the largest bouldering gym in the country—19,000-square-feet of climbing including all sorts of angles to conquer. This place is perfect for the more timid climbers who are nervous to try it out.
Where: 2295 Harrison St, SF, CA
And, of course, there is Mission Cliffs. This family-friendly facility on the east side edge of the Mission is the oldest in San Francisco and features 23,000-square-feet of climbing terrain, 2,000-square-feet of bouldering and a 50-foot lead wall. There are beginners classes and a competitive climbing team (Team Touchstone) for kids to join as they become more skilled.
924 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA
The Mason Street gym is the best of Planet Granite’s three California locations, offering 25,000-square-feet of climbing wall along with fitness areas and yoga classes for adults. Besides after school and camp programs, this gym hosts drop-in climbing sessions, too. (Meaning you can drop off your kids for some well-deserved alone time!).
Bridges Rock Gym in El Cerrito
5635 San Diego St
El Cerrito, CA
Bridges Rock Gym offers everything a child needs to learn the art of climbing. Their kid-friendly walls give your kids the confidence to work on their strength and technique. Along with climbing and bouldering practice and a youth climbing team (for kids ages 4 to 7), Bridges also offers mid-winter, spring and summer camps!
800 W Tower Ave
Alameda, CA
Sign your kids up for Bladium Kids Club and they will get access to a 5,000-square-foot climb wall and instructors who teach the basics of rock climbing in a safe (but fun!) way. The expansive 35-foot wall is made for those of all abilities, so you can climb alongside your kiddo, or get a work out in at one of the many other sessions Bladium offers!
70 Elk St
San Francisco, CA
Visit the city’s first public rock climbing wall at the remodeled Glen Canyon Recreation Center. This spot has been known for its outdoor rock climbing and bouldering, but now those of all ages and skill levels can enjoy an indoor experience, as well. Also part of the park’s $14 million renovation, six retractable basketball hoops and more bleachers. Note: keep an eye out on the wall’s schedule—drop-ins and dates vary, and are subject to change.
