first time visitor
Welcome to the world of rock climbing
Whether you’re new to climbing, or just new to Southern Stone, we’re here to assist you in having the best experience possible. Below is a list of information that will help guide you on your time with us and help you decide on what type of climbing is best for you and how you can prepare for a day of adventure at Southern!
Regardless of what type of climbing you decide on, remember that all types of climbing are dangerous and getting injured is a real possibility. All first time guest are required to fill our a waiver and go through orientation before entering the climbing area.
Waiver
Everyone entering the climbing area must have a current waiver on file - climbing, belaying or spectating. You must be at least 18 to fill out your own waiver. Otherwise, have a parent or legal guardian fill one out for you.
You may click the link on the waiver icon or scroll to the top and click the waiver link and fill one out online before you arrive, or can be filled out on our iPads when you on your first visit.
Types of Climbing
There are 3 basic ways to climb at Southern Stone: Bouldering, Auto-Belays and Top Ropes.
Bouldering: Can be done alone. Climbing with no ropes. Up to 12’
Auto-Belays: Can be done alone. Clip-and-climb system. Harness required. Up to 30’
Top Rope: Requires a partner. Belayer on bottom, climber on top. Harness required. Belay certifcation required. Up to 35’
Rental Gear
Climbing Shoes - Climbing shoes are required for all types of climbing. These specialized shoes will allow you to use the most surface area of even the smallest of grips and put power into the tips of your toes. Rental shoes are available.
Climbing Harness - In order to reach the top, you will need a climbing harness to attach to our auto-belay and top rope stations. The harness keeps you secure when going past the bouldering zone in case of falls. Rental harnesses are available.
Climbing Chalk - While not necessary, chalk helps to dry your hands and keep them from slipping off of holds. Rental chalk is available
FAQs for First Time Visitors
Q: Do I need a reservation?
A: Southern Stone always accepts walk-ins. Groups of 10 or more can be a bit much on short notice. If you feel your group may be this large, it’s always best to call ahead of time and give our team a heads up.
Q: How long should I expect to climb for?
A: Most people spend 1.5 to 2.0 hours at Southern Stone. For a first timer new to climbing, it will take about 10-15 minutes to get your group going - this includes filling out waiver (if not done prior), trying on rental shoes and harnesses and our basic orientation.
Q: What climbing gear is required?
A: The only gear required for rock climbing are climbing shoes. Like bowling shoes, climbing shoes are specific to rock climbing and ensure that our facilty stays clean and does not damage our climbing walls or equipment. However, if you are interested in going to the tops of our walls you will need a harness as well.
Q: What is Belay Certification?
A: Belaying, or holding the ropes, is a simple process of protecting the climber while on the wall. Our staff can teach you in our quick belay tutorial if you’ve never . All belayers, including those not climbing, must be certified. Belayers must be 15 or older. Belay certification is required for participants wanting to top rope. If you’re already experienced, you may simply test out.
Q: Are there any restrictions for kids?
A: When taking kids to Southern Stone there are a few things to know before coming in:
Children must be at least 5 years old in order to enter the climbing area.
Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult (18+) at all times in the lobby.
Children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times in the climbing area.
Children must be at least 10 years old in order to clip into the auto-belays on their own.
Children 15 and older must pass our belay certification in order to belay.
4:1 child:adult ratio required.
Children under 18 are required to have an adult present at all times while in the gym.
Weight limit is 35lbs-300lbs
Day Rates
Adult Pass $22
Child/Student Pass $18
Rock Shoes $4
Harness $3
Chalk $3
*Rock shoes are required for climbing.
Hours
Tuesday 12:00 - 9:00
Wednesday 12:00 - 9:00
Thursday 12:00 - 9:00
Friday 12:00 - 7:00
Saturday 12:00 - 7:00
Sunday 12:00 - 6:00
Monday Closed