We arrived knowing nothing about climbing. We had reviewed some info on their website but they mentioned having a balayer and taking an introductory class before starting the climb. Unsure about what we were reading, we just decided to come to Climb Iowa to check things out. John was working the front desk and told us that we could use the auto belay and did not need to have a belayer. He told us that anyone, even people that didnt know how to climb (like us) could do the climb without having to take any introductory class. The only thing we would need to do was go through a 10 minute orientation which was quick and painless. Another employee, also named John, walked us through the facility, told us the rules of what was allowed and not allowed, showed us how to use the auto belay and how to put on our harness and clip on the ropes.
We definitely had a fun time doing the climbs on our own and at our own pace. They have about four auto belay ropes, but we were only able to get through two of them (some are more difficult than others). Our only suggestion would be to have the auto belays on a separate wall instead of mixed in with the walls that required a belayer just because it was intimidating for us to be so close to the professional climbers.
The cost was very reasonable. It was $15 per person for an all day climb. We were told we could leave the facility to pick up some lunch/dinner and then come back to climb some more without having to pay extra. Approximately $3 for harness rental and $4 for climb shoes. I definitely recommend renting the climbing shoes. They work a lot better than regular tennis shoes because they have pointed toes.
You'll have to sign a waiver before doing any climbs because accidents can happen. But Climb Iowa stresses how dangerous climbing can be if you dont pay attention to their rules and guidelines. They have free climbs (bouldering) where there are no ropes. They have some on the first floor and second floor. They are fun but quite challenging though.
If you have a backpack or a purse, you can bring that in to the facility with you. They have lockers in the bathroom and cubes on the main floor to put your things in. We definitely recommend Climb Iowa. They are very professional. It is a safe way to learn all about climbing. We would definitely come back (after we've regained strength from our sore arms). Climbing is a great way to work out! read more