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Bouldering Walls

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Climbing is a child's first exercise. Crawling leads to climbing stairs, onto furniture, and later, up trees. With the development of indoor climbing structures, climbing has become an accessible and exciting new exercise opportunity.

With support from the Kelley Family Foundation, Portland Parks Foundation was able to fund the purchase and installation of bouldering walls in six community centers throughout Portland:

* Hillside Community Center
* Mt. Scott Community Center
* Southwest Community Center
* St. Johns Community Center
* East Portland Community Center
* University Park Community Center

Bouldering walls are horizontal climbing structures up to 8 feet in height and 20 to 60 feet in length. They do not require anchors and ropes, or the intense staff monitoring and training needed by vertical climbing walls. Thick, padded mats are attached to the climbing wall to cushion falls. Multi-colored holds and grips can be changed to create new paths to constantly challenge children. The longer walls can accommodate many children at one time, and promote positive interaction, coaching, and teamwork among the participants.