Kansas City Celebrates New Bouldering Park at the Riverfront
In the heart of Kansas City, a fresh and exciting attraction has just opened its doors – the Riverfront Boulder @ Berkley! Officials from JE Dunn Construction and Port KC gathered recently amid some pretty strong winds for a memorable ribbon-cutting event. This delightful new urban bouldering park is a fantastic addition to the city’s outdoor spaces, providing climbing enthusiasts with a unique venue to show off their skills.
What’s the Buzz About the Boulder?
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this park so special. Sitting proudly in a recessed pit is a whopping 38,000-pound granite boulder that’s a stunning 12 feet tall! That’s quite a sight, isn’t it? This magnificent rock was installed by a Canadian firm named OnSite just last week, and they will return in 2025 to etch hand and footholds into its surface. How cool is that? Imagine conquering this natural giant right in your city!
Climbing for All Levels
Now, before you rush off to climb, it’s good to know that this bouldering wonderland is tailored for the climbing community. According to Meredith Hoenes, the Director of Communications for Port KC, “This is really meant for people who are experienced climbers.” But don’t fret! It’s open to all skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about bouldering, there’s something for everyone. Oh, and while you don’t need any fancy equipment to join in, using crash pads and having spotters is highly recommended for those tackling the vertical challenge.
What Else Can You Find at the Park?
The Riverfront Boulder park isn’t just about the towering rock. It also features a delightful natural play area for kids with smaller boulders. This makes for a perfect family outing, where parents can climb while kids enjoy their own mini-adventures right next door!
Location and Access
You might be wondering, “Where do I go for this awesome experience?” The park is located on Riverfront Drive, just east of the popular sand volleyball courts, and is ready to welcome visitors starting Thursday. Due to ongoing Kansas City streetcar construction, access to the park is a little unconventional at the moment. You can get there via a sidewalk situated across from the recently opened Origin Hotel Kansas City. Just keep an eye out for the signs that say “Urban Boulder” pointing you back to the west.
What’s Coming Next?
As if that weren’t enough, there are exciting plans for future enhancements! By January 2025, visitors can look forward to an app-supported climbing route that’s sure to take the bouldering experience to the next level. Oh, and let’s not forget about the highly anticipated rope bridge that’s set to add a whole new dimension of adventure. Talk about an amazing time ahead!
Join the Adventure!
The Riverfront Boulder @ Berkley is not only a fantastic place to climb but also a lovely spot to enjoy the fresh air and meet fellow climbing enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on the boulder or let the kids explore the natural play area, this park is set to become a beloved spot in Kansas City. So grab your climbing shoes, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an adventure like no other!
