The Best Pittsburgh Rock Climbing Spots

Indoor climbing gyms, outdoor crags, and a tight-knit community make our city a top spot to climb.

Looking for a fresh way to challenge yourself, a fun date night activity, or want an active way to spend time with friends? Pittsburgh has an incredible mix of indoor and outdoor rock climbing options, with world-class bouldering gyms and scenic crags. These top climbing spots will keep you reaching for new heights.

Indoor Rock Climbing Gyms
Outdoor Climbing Locations
Where to Get Climbing Gear

Indoor Rock Climbing Gyms

FA Climbing & Fitness


Located in Station Square, FA Climbing & Fitness is a massive bouldering-focused gym with climbs for all skill levels. The 10,000-square-foot facility includes towering 15-foot walls, a dedicated training space, and a welcoming community. Yoga classes, fitness equipment, and a workspace with free WiFi make this gym a great place to climb, train, and connect.


Gym Amenities: 10,000 SF of bouldering terrain with over 200 unique boulders, yoga classes, fitness equipment, climbing classes for all ages, youth programs, locker rooms with showers, gear rentals, and workspace with free WiFi.


Location: 195 W Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA

ASCEND South Side


Bouldering, top rope, and stunning city views from the South Side neighborhood make this ASCEND gym a popular climbing destination. The expansive gym features 8,200 square feet of climbing terrain, 20 roped stations with auto-belays and top-ropes, slacklines, and a variety of fitness and yoga classes. Climbers can challenge themselves with diverse routes and get help solving difficult routes in a social, welcoming atmosphere.


Gym Amenities: 8,200 SF of climbing terrain, 20 climbing stations with auto-belays and top-ropes, spray wall, slacklines, climbing-specific training, yoga and fitness classes.


Location: 2141 Mary St, Pittsburgh, PA

ASCEND Point Breeze


At 25,000 square feet, ASCEND Point Breeze is one of Pittsburgh’s largest climbing gyms. The facility includes top-roping, lead climbing, and adaptive climbing options, as well as ample bouldering space. A yoga room, training tools, and a fully stocked retail shop make this gym a complete climbing hub.


Gym Amenities: 42’ lead climbing, op-roping, auto-belay walls, ample bouldering terrain, yoga room, fitness equipment, slacklines, retail store, lounge space, modern restrooms with showers and gender-neutral options.


Location: 7443 Thomas Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA

Iron City Boulders


Creative route-setting, a well-defined grading system, and a friendly atmosphere make Iron City Boulders a great place to climb. A tiered seating area overlooks the fitness space, giving you a spot to rest and watch others tackle new problems. Attend their climbing classes, private lessons, and a yoga studio to improve your technique and strength.


Gym Amenities: Bouldering walls, climbing classes, yoga studio, private lessons, fitness center, training spaces, locker rooms, refreshments, and retail shop.


Location: 143 51st St. Pittsburgh, PA

Public Lands

This outdoor retailer in Cranberry Township has a rock wall with both bouldering and top rope routes. Reserve a session and test your skills while shopping for the latest gear. Dedicated youth and women’s climbing events make this a great spot for beginners to gain confidence.

Gym Amenities: Rock climbing gear for purchase, youth and women’s climbing events, staff belayers available.

Location: 1000 Cranberry Square Dr Ste D, Cranberry Twp, PA

Dick's House of Sport

Located in Ross Park Mall, Dick's House of Sport has a vertical rock climbing wall with a variety of routes, and offers 15-minute climbs so you can break in your new gear. They also offer a 30-day climbing pass, so you an enjoy as many 15-minute climbs as you'd like - great for those new to climbing and working on their skills.

Gym Amenities: Climbing gear for purchase, vertical routes for different skill levels, and staff belayer available.

Location: 1008 Ross Park Mall Drive, Pittsburgh , PA

Outdoor Climbing Locations

Boyce Park Outdoor Boulders

Make your way to Boyce Park for a casual outdoor bouldering session. With 6 self-standing outdoor climbing walls within this larger recreation area, this is a great climbing location for groups seeking a mix of outdoor activities.

Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park has a variety of sport and top-rope routes at locations like Meadow Run and Bruner Run. Short approach trails marked in blue make it easy to access the climbing areas. Beginners can book guided trips through local outfitters, like Laurel Highlands River Tours, for a structured introduction to outdoor climbing.

McConnells Mill State Park

Bouldering, top roping, and chimney climbs make McConnells Mill a dynamic outdoor climbing destination. The Rim Road Climbing Area is accessible for most experienced climbers, while the rugged Breakneck Bridge area offers advanced challenges. Caution is essential, as the terrain can be unforgiving.

Where to Get Climbing Gear

3 Rivers Outdoor Co.

Located in Regent Square, just a short walk from Frick Park, 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. is the go-to shop for climbing gear. Whether you need shoes, harnesses, ropes, or chalk, this locally owned store has you covered. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect gear for bouldering, trad, sport, or mountaineering adventures.

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