Planet Rock Climbing Gym

Fantastic experience: I took my 10yo daughter to Planet Rock in Madison Heights and we both had an intro lesson approx 3 weeks ago. The intro lesson includes equipment rental with day pass as well as a second day pass to use within 30 days. A great deal imo. We came back today to use our second pass. Both times the experience was wonderful! The staff is fantastic! More then willing to offer help and guidance when needed and always with a smile on their face even when you walk in like a newbie. They are quick to offer tips and are careful to ensure that safety procedures are followed. There are kids and adults climbing side-by-sde but the atmosphere is one of courtesy and felt overwhelmingly positive. People seemed generally respectful of their neighbors. They are still under construction at this location so when things were busy on the weekend it felt a bit cramped but there were still plenty of open lanes when we wanted to move around. If this is your first time at a gym and you want to bring a younger child I recommend you bring another adult if you want to climb also. The autobelay is great, if a bit harrowing, but having an adult to trade off belay means more fun for all as there are far more regular rope lanes. My daughter was too nervous to use the autobelay, although many kids had no problem so your mileage may vary. All in all I could not be happier with the experience and recommend it to anyone looking for a great workout and fun time.

Fantastic experience: The Pontiac gym was my second home shortly after I graduated high school. I had never been a cool kid and it was awesome to finally find a place where I belonged. I had a diverse group of fellow climbers as friends and spent hours with them learning new techniques. Now, many years later all my kids climb and love it. It still feels like home. Occassionally a familiar face will pop up too.

Fantastic experience: Both my kids climb at both Planet Rock gyms, and we could not be happier. The staff are super friendly, and the kids programs they have in place are superb. Nothing seems too much trouble. We have climbed in gyms all over the Mid West, and these gyms are right up there with the best. The routes are updated constantly, so it is like going to a new gym all the time. Safety is paramount, and the staff are not afraid to point out concerns to experienced climbers if they feel they are not being super safe, or their technique is a little lacking. If you've never climbed give it a go, I think you and your family will love it!

Fantastic experience: Amazing experience, the kids had a blast! Shout out to instructor Andy for being very patient & encouraging with the kids!

Fantastic experience: New climber here. The gym is well outfitted with changing rooms, showers, a cardio room, weight room, and yoga classes. Additionally they offer snacks and a coffee bar with a beautiful fireplace lounge. It is kept very clean. There is a well-stocked shop that has a lot of different gear that is priced consistently with the rest of the marketplace. The main gym itself is very large and offers many different types of walls. They have bouldering, top-roping, lead-roping, speed runs and other walls for a wide variety of climbers. The equipment is well-maintained. For advanced climbers they have a lot of different challenges as well, but I'm not really qualified to evaluate those parts of the gym. There is a strong emphasis on safety as well. The staff are trained to make sure that every climber who enters the gym is properly trained on belaying and the basic knots and clipping skills. I would note that more advanced climbers may not appreciate the requirement to belay certify before climbing. The staff is incredible. They are welcoming and have a positive attitude. They are patient, thorough and informative. Specifically, Alex, Liam, Ethan and Fischer (spelling?) went out of their way to be informative and make sure we knew what we were doing all the time. Their service is what really makes Planet Rock stand out. This speaks to a well-run facility. Kudos to the owners and managers for keeping a great staff.

Fantastic experience: A great place to come and climb. Aida was very helpful and patient with helping with gear selection. There was a good selection of difficulties. All the people there were friendly and willing to give tips and pointers.

Fantastic experience: Love this place! Friendly staff and great training. Year pass is well worth it.

Fantastic experience: If you are new to climbing don't be afraid! The training course that they do is very well done and they will make sure you are good to go before you do any rope climbing. If you are new don't be afraid to ask staff for some pointers or to help freshen you up on belaying. Update here, been constantly climbing here, everyone is friendly helpful and routes are always being updated and there's enough time with them up to master them a few times! If you are interested in rock climbing please give it a try here at planet rock!

Fantastic experience: Amazing community and amazing gym. I just started climbing here after moving away from my main gym, and I was quite nervous about how people would be like here. Everyone I have met has been very kind and welcoming, without and hesitation, and because of that I am already making new friends! The gym itself is very spacious, with a large bouldering area, a huge wall for sport climbing, and above the bouldering section there are a good handful of auto belay routes, for when you don't have anyone to climb with. There is also a small area with weights that I have heard exists, but that I have not been to myself, a small mock ice climbing area, and lots of places where you can put your stuff (mostly cubbies, but there are some lockers). Overall the gym is amazing and has exceeded all my expectations, and the community that climbs here is one of the most welcoming communities there is. 5 stars, 10/10 would recommend to anyone, climber or not.

Fantastic experience: My daughter started in September the spider monkey classes so my husband and I decided to take a membership to have an activity we can do together. Best idea ever! We all love it and we love Planet Rock! ❤️

Fantastic experience: Well equipped gym full of very supportive climbers and employees.

Fantastic experience: The staff at Planet Rock is really incredible - they keep the place clean, help out customers, and make sure everyone is safe. My husband and I hadn't been there in a while, so we needed a refresher on how to tie a knot and belay. The guy who helped us was amazing - he was so patient and explained everything in detail. We'll definitely be back soon!

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience at Planet Rock. The gym is well-equipped with a variety of top rope routes and plenty of bouldering. The lobby, viewing balcony, and exercise gym are all very nice. I was especially impressed with the new climber class and the helpful staff. I must commend the management for introducing membership scan cards, which makes the check-in process much faster.

Fantastic experience: It was an incredible experience for both children and adults alike. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. I would definitely do it again.

Fantastic experience: Great gym, event nights are hit and miss. I still give the gym five stars because it is fantastic in pretty much all other regards.

Positive experience: This gym has a lot of great options, but they require you to take an introductory class before you can use the facility. This policy should be changed for those who just want a day pass to boulder. It also means that there are many people who have not belayed since their last visit two years ago, and should not be trusted to do so.

Fantastic experience: I'm a very big fan of Planet Rock's two locations. They have an excellent staff that's very polite, personable, and trained. I personally have a slight preference for the Madison Heights location because it feels more open, more colorful, and has a lovely resting spot. However I have a friend that prefers the Ann Arbor location because they have more routes that he's able to climb and he thinks they're rotated out more often (we haven't confirmed this).

Fantastic experience: Love this place! I go here once in a while to Boulder and they have a good sized boldering section. I like how they are always changing the routes, not sure how often, but it’s always different when I go. Routes are challenging. Both the staff and the climbers seem pretty friendly.

Fantastic experience: Exceptionally friendly staff and a great facility overall. I’ve been to a half dozen climbing gyms in my life, and this is the one I wish I could have in my backyard. They have multiple crack systems, a chimney, and even a place to dry tool. Just incredible in every way.

Fantastic experience: I haven't been rock climbing in a very long while, I believe Ren is the one who assisted me in finding the right harness and shoes to purchase. The entire staff is amazingly helpful and attentive to the safety of all climbers . Can't wait to come back

Fantastic experience: Did some climbing in the dark on Halloween this place has a distinct charm, different than the Planet Rock in Ann Arbor. Good mix of bouldering, top rope, lead climbing and also some slabs. There is speed climbing too but I think it might only be for team members. Great place for all skill levels. They have a small fitness area if that concerns you. Props to the route setters.

Fantastic experience: Great climbing gym with friendly staff. The distribution of climbing grades makes this a good place to train for all levels of climbers. Features a healthy amount of slabs and under hangs.

Fantastic experience: Planet rock is great. Everyone is nice. Routes change up all the time. Good coffee. Nice little pro shop area. There is a reason it gets so crowded. Just wish it was closer to my house

Fantastic experience: Always a great place to go! Lots of different climbing routes for all skill levels. They have done a great job with COVID keeping the place clean and a safe number of people for each time slot.

Fantastic experience: First time doing indoor rock climbing & this place was very cool. They start you off with a 1 hour class learning how to use the harness & ropes as well as holding the rope for your climbing partner (belaying). The class is quick & easy yet very informative. The instructor (I wish I had his name) was awesome! He was easy to work with, fun & knew what he was doing. After the class you have full run of the place which is huge! The cost for a first timer is $40ish which includes the class, rental of all gear and unlimited climbing for the day. (It also includes a 2nd day of climbing that you have to use within 30 days) We visited on a Saturday afternoon & although it was really busy, there was plenty of space & places to climb. The only thing that stopped us from climbing was exhaustion, not the other patrons or waiting in line. Bouldering was really fun but much harder than climbing the regular walls with a harness. If you've always wanted to try this sport or are just interested in checking it out, I highly recommend giving this place a shot.

Fantastic experience: One year ago, the allure of rock climbing finally brought me to Planet Rock in Madison Heights. The Intrinsic structure of climbing was mysterious, and I soon learned would entail a world of its own. Just like anything in life, one can submerge themselves in an activity, stay there for decades, and sculpt their own version. My first day climbing... A quick 45 min session would teach us to belay properly and climb on top rope. Piece of cake, great instructor "Jen" and important knowledge for beginners. I immediately jumped on 5.10's to test my strength. What a nightmare, but I knew they would soon be possible. Aftermath of that day: Chairs were much harder to push in, forearms left like jello, and fingers were miraculously still attached. Fast forward one year later... I am comfortably climbing 5.11's. Last week, my girlfriend and I scheduled our lead climbing class at Planet Rock. Our Instructor "Garrett" was down to earth, answered any questions we had, and kept us safe at all times. Dave and Kyle were also extreamly helpful in those following days bestowing their expertise to the best of their ability. Every time I decide to climb I enjoy it more and more. I would feel a lack in my life if I never decided to give it a try. Thank you Planet Rock and all the employees for making my climbing journey safe, memorable, and most importantly, fun.

Fantastic experience: This gym is the tri-fecta. Great Boulder, Lead and Speed. Staff are great and prices are reasonable. They also have a pretty good pro-shop. Gym can be cold at times so bring layers.

Fantastic experience: I cant believe this place has any bad reviews. People will complain about anything. Ive been here over a 100 times and will continue to come back. Some of the nicest people ive ever met. Great climbing!

Fantastic experience: I have climbed here for a couple years, several times per week. This facility has a lot of variety from slab to overhung (for boulders and rope - many routes can be done lead or top rope). The route setting is great and turned over regularly. The employees have great attitudes and are very knowledgeable and helpful. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Came here as a first time climber and it was a great experience. If you are new to the gym you have to take an intro class, even if it's not your first time climbing. The intro price includes unlimited climbing for the remainder of that day, plus one other day that month. The facility is clean, but it seems small because it is very busy. Make sure to watch out for those around you when coming off the wall because there are people everywhere and kids there too. They have tons of options for those who are beginner or advanced. There are also lockers, a coffee counter, gym, retail, and more. I would definitely recommend trying it out, fun and challenging way to spend a few hours of your free time.

Fantastic experience: Such a great place! It was my first time rock climbing and I was super nervous. Nate (the instructor/staff member) was awesome. Really fun personality && makes sure you know what you’re doing before you & your partner start climbing. Def recommend!

Fantastic experience: Awesome place for climbing and bouldering! Very knowledgeable and friendly staff! Reasonably priced. Fun for all ages and experience levels! You do have to pay extra and take an instructional class if it's your first time, even if you are just bouldering. They take their time, though, and teach you the right way to climb safely. You also get a free day pass for paying for the class, so its totally worth it! I like that safety is clearly a top priority.

Fantastic experience: Very nice staff. Very nice set up. They have many options to climb from easy to pro. Staff is always asking if help is needed. They have great instructions for beginners. They have good snacks, coffee, tea, clean bathrooms. The gear you get is nice not super cheap.

Fantastic experience: Found this place on Groupon a couple years ago now. I was hooked instantly. This is a great gym. Great for beginners and pros alike. Staff is always helpful and friendly. Routes are constantly changing so there are always new problems to work on. A nice array of classes as well to get you from the gym to real rock. Can be a bit expensive but I am not sure about prices around the country for this type of gym. Not a bad thing to say about the place.

Fantastic experience: This gym is a fantastic place to learn how to climb safely! The staff create a welcoming environment. They're always willing to answer questions, give you information about products/climbing techniques, and are extremely thoughtful and outgoing. As someone who struggles with severe anxiety, this makes going to the gym a low stress environment. I think staff being so kind encourages the other climbers to be the same way. The vast majority of the other patrons are friendly. The other climbers are good about grabbing the staff if they see anything unsafe. The gym is kept clean, organized, and in good upkeep - I have yet to encounter any loose rocks or other safety hazards while climbing. The staff patrol the gym to keep an eye on all climbers. If they notice anyone participating in unsafe behavior, they are quick to correct the behavior. The routes are changed once a month or so in order to give climbers new challenges. Each climb is ranked to show if it is a beginner climb or more advanced. Different climbs teach different techniques. Other reviews complain about the orientation price. I don't agree. I believe the orientation price is around $44. This includes a day pass (normally $17-20), an additional day pass (usable within 30 days), your gear (belay device, harness, shoes - altogether ~$10), AND the safety course (which teaches how to safely tie in to the rope and how to safely belay a partner). Overall, this is a fantastic gym with professional/phenomenal staff. You guys are doing amazing work!

Fantastic experience: Went to this gym while away from my home gym in MN and loved the variety of cracks here. All are next to each other in an area that doesn't overlap with other climbs. The routes I climbed while there were nicely set. Some of the holds are older--polished and dirty-- but that's what you're going to find in a lot of places outdoors, so this is good practice. There's a great hangout area with a coffee shop, fireplace and a store. The locker rooms are large and new. There's also an area with regular gym equipment and a dry tool practice area, if that's your thing. The only downside was that the walls upstairs felt hollow and that was strange to feel while climbing.

Fantastic experience: Went for the first time and the lesson was outstanding. The instructor made us feel very comfortable with every step of learning our safety checks for belaying and climbing. Great facility and excellent staff! I will be back

Fantastic experience: This place is awesome. My girlfriend and I have annual memberships and it is beyond worth the money. The employees are INCREDIBLY friendly and helpful. They're always willing to go the extra mile to make sure climbers stay safe and have fun. They offer basic gym equipment and yoga classes free to members and have a good selection in the pro shop. I can't speak highly enough about this gym and the folks that make it run. Keep being fantastic, guys!

Fantastic experience: Great gym! The Boulder, Top Rope, and lead areas are refreshed at a good rate. PR even has an Ice Climbing area to get get into the sport. Staff is helpful when then can be. Sometimes it is a packed in the gym and they may take a few extra minutes but what service businesses doesn’t lag a little when they are busy. In short...try them a few times. First time is mainly for learning/safety, second time is for fun!

Fantastic experience: Amazing staff and incredible lead routes! I've been to a ton of gyms due to a traveling job, and those lead routes are some of the most creative and entertaining routes I've ever had the pleasure to climb. They also let me in for free due to an upcoming birthday! What an awesome crew.

Fantastic experience: This was a great experience. Friendly staff make this gym a winner. I am new to the sport and am surprised by the level of exhaustion I feel after a session. There are a ton of things to do here, from bouldering to sport. They even have a couple of slacklines to work on your balance. There are plenty of auto belay routes also if you don't have a partner. I intend on making this a regular stop. This is the most fun I've ever had working out, I certainly found some muscles I haven't used in awhile. We took a short class on the toprope belay system and its use. The instructor was informative and very patient. Thanks again Planet Rock.

Fantastic experience: Friendly atmosphere and a great place for climbers of all skill levels. Planet Rock offers basic introductory safety for those who just want to explore and learn on their own, as well as a full range of classes for everyone from beginners to those looking to take their skills to advanced routes. A large bouldering area, coupled with toprope and lead climbing routes, offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Fantastic experience: Had such a great time! So much fun and a great workout!! Instructor that gave the one hour lesson was really patient and made sure everyone in the group understood what they were doing. Just wish they had more auto belay walls so my husband and I could climb at the same time.

Fantastic experience: Awesome! The staff is super helpful and knowledgeable. Most are dedicated climbers themselves. I've been climbing here for about a year. The environment, routes and community are all top notch. Routes change on a very regular basis. The gear shop is stocked full of great quality material and the selection is decent also. They also have yoga and aerial silks classes. The only thing that could improve is the weight room.

Fantastic experience: Excellent staff. They have wide range of membership for all. And only one around which is best.

Fantastic experience: This is one of, if not the best gym in Michigan, I regularly make an hour and a half drive to climb here. Lots of bouldering, top rope and lead climbing. This was also the fist place that I had ever climbed, so there is something for every skill level.

Fantastic experience: This is a really solid climbing gym. The walls have around 60 feet of vert with shorter, 40ish foot walls that are mostly auto belay. The only downside i have with this gym is the lack of variety with regard to the bouldering. It's all very steep, with usually only a few vertical problems and absolutely no slabs. That being said if you like steep climbing the bouldering and lead climbing here will certainly provide you with plenty of entertainment.

Fantastic experience: 1st time rock climbing and the instructor was awesome! She was very patient and helped our small class of 7. The safety instructions were pretty straight forward and easy to follow. The price was low and includes a free return trip within 30 days. Lots of walls to climb with varying degrees of difficulty. You can free climb, climb with a partner or climb solo. I climbed by myself with 1 of the many self repelling hookups. Definitely will be returning in the near future.

Fantastic experience: Has everything you could expect from your local climbing gym! Lots of sports climbing, extensive bouldering area, hangboards, crack climbing, and even a Moon Board! In mid-2017 they opened a new bouldering area (to the left as you enter) that greatly expands their beginner offering (before it was a little poor), and also includes some harder boulders. Best gym in the area!

Fantastic experience: Bouldering, top rope, and sport routes, with a variety of difficulty to satisfy beginners or more advanced climbers. The instructors for their classes are very knowledgeable, and it is a great way to learn how to transition to climbing outdoors.

Fantastic experience: Great time. Instructor was thorough. Clean place with gear for purchase. Not too crowded. It's a pretty large place to begin with. All around I have no complaints at all. Get out there and climb! (Safely of course)

Fantastic experience: Great gym, bouldering, top rope, lead climbing, ice climbing, cracks, it's has it all. Routes are changed often, good variety, even includes a small traditional gym. Very good climbing gym! Highly recommended.