7 Top Rock Climbing Spots in Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley offers plenty of opportunities for climbers, with indoor gyms in Allentown, Easton, and Bethlehem, plus outdoor bouldering spots like South Mountain.
This guide highlights the best rock climbing locations in the region, including top-rated climbing gyms, scenic natural areas, and beginner-friendly options so you’ll know exactly where to go for your next adventure.
Valley Wellness Center
Type: Indoor
Location: 4415 Innovation Way, Allentown
Why Go: This modern facility provides a clean and welcoming space for both seasoned climbers and beginners. It's part of a larger wellness center, so climbers can also enjoy access to yoga and fitness services.
What to Know:
- Features: Indoor bouldering and top-rope walls with varying route difficulties
- Gear Rental: No
- Beginner Friendly: Yes
- Lessons Available: Yes
- Cost: Day passes available; memberships also offered
South Mountain
Type: Outdoor
Location: 560 E Rock Rd, Allentown
Why Go: A favorite among local climbers for its forest scenery, South Mountain is a go-to for outdoor bouldering in the Lehigh Valley.
What to Know:
- Features: Dozens of problems ranging in difficulty; scattered sandstone and quartzite boulders
- Gear Rental: No, bring your own crash pads and gear
- Beginner Friendly: Partially. Some easier options, but approach and landings can be rugged. It’s a great place to go and learn from a friend who has more experience.
- Lessons Available: No formal instruction onsite
- Cost: Free to access
North Summit Climbing Gym
Type: Indoor
Location: 481 Bushkill Plaza Lane, Wind Gap
Why Go: A community-oriented climbing gym with a mix of bouldering, top-rope, and lead climbing. It’s known for its friendly staff, variety of routes, and climbing competitions.
What to Know:
- Features: Top-rope, lead climbing, bouldering, auto-belays, training area
- Gear Rental: Yes – full gear available for rent
- Beginner Friendly: Yes
- Lessons Available: Yes – private lessons, belay instruction, youth programs
- Cost: Affordable day passes (with specials like 10 for $10 on Friday), punch cards, and memberships
Blue Mountain Resort
Type: Outdoor (manmade climbing wall)
Location: 1660 Blue Mountain Drive, Palmerton
Why Go: Take in the gorgeous view of Blue Mountain Resort. This outdoor climbing tower is a great seasonal option for beginners and families seeking an adventurous day out.
What to Know:
- Features: 30-foot outdoor climbing wall with nine climbing lanes
- Gear Rental: Included with admission
- Beginner Friendly: Yes
- Lessons Available: No formal instruction, but staff assist on-site
- Cost: $52 ($49 if purchased online) for a 2-hour ticket or $72 ($69 if purchased online) for a 4-hour ticket.
HangDog Outdoor Adventure
Type: Outdoor (manmade course)
Location: 410 Cedarville Road, Easton
Why Go: With a stylish, modern facility, the largest ropes course on the East Coast, and a craft brewery, it’s as much a social hub as a climbing gym.
What to Know:
- Features: 115 climbing elements, night climbs, a special kids’ course, and two 240ft ziplines
- Gear Rental: Climbing gloves are required and available for purchase
- Beginner Friendly: Yes
- Lessons Available: Safety instructions and demonstrations before each climbing session
- Cost: Admission is $49.95 for a two-hour session on the Adventure Course. Non-climbing guests can enjoy lawn games, live entertainment, and relax at HangDog Brewing Co. for free.
Urban Air Adventures
Type: Indoor
Location: 6900 Hamilton Blvd., Ste. 150, Trexlertown
Why Go: Known more as a family entertainment center, Urban Air offers fun, themed climbing walls that are perfect for kids or beginners looking for a low-pressure intro to climbing.
What to Know:
- Features: Multiple indoor climbing elements (colorful walls, towers, and rope features), in addition to other park attractions
- Gear Rental: Included with attraction wristband
- Beginner Friendly: Yes – especially great for kids and casual climbers
- Lessons Available: No – staff provide safety guidance only
- Cost: Tickets that include climbing walls start at $30.99, with more package options available
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