The summer may be a time for athletic fun in the sun, but indoor rock climbing is an alternative for those who yearn for athletic fun without the ultraviolet intrusion. Open climbing is offered Friday nights and Sunday afternoons. While groups such as the Penn State Outing Club use the facility at certain times, the YMCA sets aside Fridays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. for open climbing. People of any age and skill level are welcome to climb during the open times.
YMCA members can climb for free during the open sessions.
The 20-foot wall, located in the YMCA gym, can accommodate five climbers at a time. There are three flat lanes that run perpendicular to the floor and two other lanes that require more climbing skill because of various obstructions. One features a steep angular plane near the top and the other features a box design also near the top. David Biddinger, University adjunct professor of entomology, has been climbing the wall for about a year and has yet to master the box at the top of the wall. What began as an attempt to slay a lifelong fear has turned into a weekly hobby for the State College resident.