Steelworkers Park Climbing Wall

The historic ore walls at Steelworkers Park, remnants of a former steel manufacturing site, have been transformed into a unique opportunity for climbing and bouldering. Whether you want to improve your skills or are new to climbing, this 30-foot wall is suitable for all experience levels, with climbing grades ranging from 5.2 to 5.7.

Patrons are welcome to bring their own equipment and climb while there is no active programming at the wall. However, it is a climb at your own risk activity.

The Park District offers facilitated access to the wall during a series of summer community climb programs and other seasonal events.  A signed waiver is required for all Chicago Park District climbing events. Facilitated access to the wall includes all equipment (shoes, helmet, harness, and climbing systems). Climbers are required to wear Chicago Park District issued climbing harnesses and safety equipment, which are designed for people ages 8 and up.  Anyone is permitted to boulder on the traverse wall, with a helmet at no charge.

The wall is accessible daily during park hours from dusk to dawn.  To check wall availability or inquire about Chicago Park District climbing programs please contact the Ford Calumet Environmental Center at (312) 590-5993.

2023 Community Climb Schedule

Join us during the summer months for facilitated community climbing events. Ages 8 and up (climbers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).  Offered on Saturdays, these climbs are FREE and include all climbing equipment (harness, helmet, climbing shoes) and the use of the climbing systems. Registration is required. Walk-ups are welcome but climbing opportunities are limited to availability. 

• July 8, 2023  |  11 am - 12 pm, 12 - 1 pm, 1 - 2 pm  
• August 27, 2023  |  11 am - 12 pm, 12 - 1 pm, 1- 2 pm  
• September 30, 2023  |  10 - 11 am, 11 am - 12 pm, 12 - 1 pm
• October 7, 2023  |  12 - 1 pm, 1 - 2 pm, 2 - 3 pm  

General Climbing Wall Rules

Climbing is an inherently dangerous sport. All users are agreeing to climb at their own risk, and all climbers are required to exercise good judgement and common sense when climbing. Please prioritize safety at all times. Climbing hours are dawn to dusk.

ALWAYS:  

• Wear shoes at all times
• Climb with a partner/spotter
• Remain aware of your surroundings
• Be accompanied by an adult if under the age of 16.
• Climb on holds only. Do not touch exposed metal or other structures for support.
• Respect other climbers around you and make it a point to share the facility.
• Only use equipment that is designed and rated for climbing.

NEVER:

• Climb over, behind, or around the side of the wall.

• Climb directly above or below other climbers on the wall.

• Bring food or drink into the designated climbing area (mulched area beneath climbing wall) except bottled water.

• Stand in landing area (mulched are beneath climbing wall) unless spotting a climber.

• Top out or climb over the ledge to the top platform.

Bouldering Rules

Bouldering involves climbing low to the ground without the use of ropes. It is an excellent way to improve climbing strength and technique, and is a great activity for first-time climbers. The bouldering area is designated as all climbing holds located on the bottom 1/3rd of the climbing wall.

ALWAYS:

• Climb down after finishing a problem to minimize risk of injury.

NEVER:

• Climb underneath roped climbers. Top rope climbers have the right of way.

• Reach for holds above the bouldering area.

• Never boulder past the bottom 1/3 of the climbing wall.

Top Roping Rules

Top rope climbing ( or top roping) is a style of climbing in which the climber is securely attached to a rope which is fastened to the top of the climbing wall via an auto belay system or through an anchor system at the top of the wall, and down to a belayer at the foot of the climbing wall.

ALWAYS:

• Use proper gear and safety equipment including a helmet and harness.

• Use anchors and holds provided.

• Remain attached to belay or lead climbing rope at all times when actively climbing and on top of the climbing platform.

• Take caution when climbers use adjacent routes, both climbing up and down.

NEVER:

• Place your own anchors or holds.

• Lead climb prohibited unless on the lead climbing routes.

For more information on booking a private group climb or for school groups please call (312) 590-5993.