UPGRADING BEND ROCK GYM: A NEW TOWER FOR A GROWING COMMUNITY

At EP Climbing, we’ve had the privilege of working closely with Bend Rock Gym (BRG) over the years. When they reached out about an upgrade to their space, we were excited to get involved.

A Fresh Addition to the Gym

BRG came to us with a specific request: they wanted to replace their existing boulder in the main gym with something that would offer more variety and better serve their climbers. Their goal was to create a climbing experience that appealed to a wider range of skills and preferences—something that would keep the gym feeling fresh for both new and experienced climbers.

The New Climbing Tower Takes Shape

To meet that challenge, we replaced their freestanding boulder with a 2,020 sq. ft. climbing tower dedicated to top rope and lead climbing. The new structure is equipped with 14 ropes and features a mix of moderate overhang and slab terrain—two types of climbing that were previously lacking in the gym. This new terrain adds versatility to the space and fills in gaps that the gym's community had been asking for.

Instead of making things more complicated, we designed the tower to utilize the gym's existing columns, going from floor to ceiling without mid-span connections. This approach not only simplified the design but also reduced the structural work, helping us move through the project smoothly and efficiently.

A Seamless Process

Timeline: The project took just eight months from start to finish, aligning with BRG’s request to complete the work during their slower summer season. This allowed the gym to minimize disruptions and continue offering an excellent climbing experience for its members.

Installation: Our team completed the tower in just three weeks, with minimal impact on gym operations. Members continued climbing in other areas throughout the installation process. We made sure to keep the space open and functional as much as possible, and the result was a smooth, hassle-free upgrade for both the gym and its community.

Grand Opening Celebration

To celebrate the grand opening of the new tower, BRG hosted a Pump-a-Thon event. The event gave the community a chance to try out the new wall, enjoy a free BBQ, and participate in raffles, prizes, and games—making for a fun and memorable day. It was a great way to bring the community together, share the excitement of the new space, and enjoy some well-deserved fun after all the hard work.

Looking Forward

We’re excited to see how the new tower fits into BRG’s evolving space. The project highlights the power of collaboration and shows how small changes can make a big difference to the people who use the space every day.