The Circuit
Climbers at The Circuit on Friday afternoon.
(Debbie Nelson/Special to The Oregonian)
Social climbers in Tigard have a new place to hang out – literally. Now that The Circuit Bouldering Gym is open, locals have over 19,000 square feet of boulders to climb and hang around on and a new way to get fit.
A great workout that uses your own body weight as resistance, bouldering is not just for El Capitan-quality climbers anymore. The rock formations at The Circuit have a variety of hand and footholds at different levels. There's also a thick padded floor to catch missteps. You have to be aware though, both on the rocks and around them. People are climbing at different levels throughout The Circuit. "Watch out below!" is a familiar phrase in the building. You have to watch what might be overhead as you wander around admiring others and looking for your spot to climb.
Located in the previous Elmo Studd's lumberyard, The Circuit offers a lot of room for experienced climbers, high-hoped novices and kids – birthday parties are a specialty and classes or private lessons are available. Introductory classes provide everything you'll need to get a piece of your rock including shoes, instruction and a two-week membership. Front desk associate Andrew Stern says he hopes Tigard "enjoys it as much as we are enjoying being here."
Passes and family memberships are available, starting at just $12 for students and $14 for adults for a day pass. Call 503-596-2332 for more information or stop in and take a quick tour at 16255 S.W. Upper Boones Ferry Road. Yoga classes start soon.
-- C.J. Gifford