Climbnasium: Bouldering On

Get your alpinism kicks at rock climbing center Climbnasium (339A N. Locust Road, Mechanicsburg, Penn., about 120 miles north of downtown D.C.), where you can make toprope climbs as high as 40 feet, or test your climbing skills on bouldering areas.

Let’s begin by talking about problems: boulder problems That’s what the Climbnasium calls its obstacle course at the Frost Bite Bouldering Competition, happening Feb. 11 ($35). No pre-registration is required -- just show up and register that day.

While you're there, choose from more than 120 boulder "problems" you’ll need to master. Each climber picks about seven boulders, and will have four hours to get top speed. The person with the best time on all combined courses wins. You’ll be graded by difficulty (the harder the boulders, the more points you get), so choose your "problem" wisely.

In the end, only the strongest climbers in the Mid-Atlantic will be left climbing the walls while we cheer them on. Top winners will receive cash prizes.

Every Friday Night is also college night -- those toting college IDs will receive half off admission. Instead of hopping around to the lonely bars in town, burn some calories and gain muscle.

Call 717-795-9580 for more info. Day passes are $14. The Climbnasium is open Monday though Friday from 1 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

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