Climbing Gym Courses

student on the climbing wall as she is being instructed

Climbing Course Offerings

The CU Outdoor Pursuits offers a wide variety of climbing related courses for our climbing gym members. Take advantage of these great courses that will get you ready for any outdoor climbing adventure.Ìý

Early registration in these courses is recommended due to limited spots. Learn more aboutÌýRegistration, Refund & Transfer Information.

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Belay Tests
All climbers who would like to climb or belay roped climbs must pass a toprope or lead belay test with Outdoor Pursuits staff. Belay tests must be retaken every academic year. This test covers everything taught in the toprope or lead belay courses, and cannot be taken the same day as your belay course. Climbing gym membership or day pass required.

ÌýÌýWeekdays (all day) and weekends (2-7 p.m.)
ÌýÌýFree with climbing gym membership
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Toprope Belay Course
Learn to belay your partner on toprope climbs in the gym. This course is for new climbers or anyone who would like a refresher and will teach you the skills required to pass our belay test.
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No experience necessary. Early registration is recommended due to limited space.Ìý

ÌýÌýEvery Tuesday, Sept. 2-Nov. 18
​ÌýÌý6-8 p.m.
ÌýÌý$10

ÌýÌýEvery other Wednesday, Sept. 3-Nov. 12
​ÌýÌý6-8 p.m.
ÌýÌý$10

ÌýÌýEvery other Thursday, Sept. 11-Nov. 20
​ÌýÌý6-8 p.m.
ÌýÌý$10

Lead Climb & Belay Course
Learn to lead climb and lead belay in the gym. This course is for climbers already experienced and comfortable with toprope climbing and belaying who would like to learn to lead. This course will get you started on the skills required to pass our lead climb and belay test. Early registration is recommended due to limited space. Toprope Belay certification is required.

ÌýÌýEvery other Thursday, Sept. 4-Nov. 13
​ÌýÌý6-9 p.m.
ÌýÌý$25

ÌýÌýEvery other Wednesday, Sept. 10-Nov. 19
​ÌýÌý6-9 p.m.
ÌýÌý$25

No courses on holidays or school breaks.

Climbing Technique 101

Learn the basics of handholds, footwork, body position, efficient movement and more as you build your skills as a climber.

ÌýÌýOct. 18
​ÌýÌý10 a.m.-12 p.m.
ÌýÌý$25

The Great Fall Wall Crawl
Join CU Outdoor Pursuits for The Great Fall Wall Crawl, our very first toprope competition! The 2025 Great Fall Wall Crawl Climbing Competition has three heats. Registration required. There will be a drawing for door prizes for all competitors.

ÌýÌýNov. 15
​ÌýÌýHeat 1: 9-10:30 a.m.; heat 2: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; heat 3: 1-2:30 p.m.
Check-in begins 15 minutes prior to the start of your heat.
ÌýÌý$20 for non-members, $10 for climbing gym members

Free climbing events