Climbing is cool. Climbing is even cooler when you're surrounded by rad people and can do it every day - no matter the weather. There are multiple indoor climbing locations across the Midwest, but so far one of my favorites in Minnesota is Vertical Endeavors.
In Duluth, the Vertical Endeavors climbing walls are in Adventure Zone located in Canal Park. We had a couple rainy days while visiting Duluth and decided to spend part of the day at the wall. The Vertical Endeavors website boasts that it is "the North Shore’s largest climbing facility with more than 14,000 ft2 of climbing walls and routes up to 40 feet tall." Not only are the routes great, but they feature some of the most realistic artificial rocks surfaces out there. Everyone was friendly and helpful. There were a ton of opportunities for locals including clubs, outdoor climbing trips and women's night.
Don't live near Duluth? There are now four locations in Minnesota and one in Illinois. Those places include Duluth, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Bloomington and Glendale Heights, IL. Take a look at the map on the bottom of this page to find different locations. Don't have equipment? They've got you covered. You can rent or buy everything you need right at the walls. All you really need are closed toe shoes to get your climb on. Never climbed before? Have no fear! They have routes for all skill levels and I'm sure someone will be more than happy to show you the way. You can just pay for a day visit or get a membership.
Let's talk about the benefits of climbing, shall we? It's an incredible workout. Some of the physical benefits include both upper and lower body strength, endurance, agility and coordination. Trust me when I say that you'll feel in the next day. Not only is it great physically, it also works your brain. While climbing you have to continuously solve problems by looking for routes up the wall. Another benefit for climbing is the people. I've never been to a wall or gone on a climbing trip with unfriendly people. It's a really welcoming community in general. Finally, like I mentioned at the start of this post, it's something you can do not matter the weather. With the option of both indoor and outdoor climbing, you can climb to your heart's content!
Whether you're looking for a place to do a little bouldering, get an awesome workout, celebrate a birthday, find people with similar interests or even just a place to learn the ropes (top ropes, that is), consider checking out Vertical Endeavors.
Live big.
Vertical Endeavors - Duluth
(Thanks for these pictures, Mom)
