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Writer's pictureBenjamin Black

Scaling New Heights: Rock Climbing vs Bouldering Gym in Cañon City, CO

Updated: Jun 13, 2023


Rock Climbing Gym VS Bouldering Gym

As an outdoor enthusiast, you've likely wondered about the best way to bring the joy of climbing indoors, especially in a place like Cañon City, Colorado. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a vibrant community that's ripe for a climbing gym. But the question remains: should this be a rock climbing gym or a bouldering gym? Let's delve into the data, market research, and market analysis to see which option fits best for Cañon City.


Cañon City is a small but bustling city with a population of about 17,157 residents, covering an area of 12.4 square miles​. With a median age of 44.9, the city has a mature population that might appreciate the physical and mental benefits of climbing. The city's per capita income is approximately $27,658, which could indicate a potential customer base with discretionary income to spend on hobbies like indoor climbing​. So let's dive in and see what makes more sense, a Rock Climbing Gym VS Bouldering Gym in Cañon City, CO.


Rock Climbing Gym vs Bouldering Gym: The Basics


Before we dive into the specifics for Cañon City, it's important to understand the fundamental differences between a rock climbing gym and a bouldering gym. A rock climbing gym typically features high walls (often 25 to 50 feet tall) and requires safety equipment such as harnesses and ropes. Climbers usually need a partner to belay them.


On the other hand, a bouldering gym involves climbing on lower walls (usually less than 20 feet tall) over a heavily padded floor, meaning that no ropes or harnesses are needed. This allows climbers to practice on their own without a partner.


Market Research and Analysis for Cañon City


When considering the two options for Cañon City, we have to take into account the city's demographics, lifestyle, and preferences.


Education levels in the city are high, with 93% of the population being a high school graduate or higher, and 24% having a bachelor's degree or higher​. This could suggest an audience interested in challenging and engaging activities such as rock climbing or bouldering.


However, the median age of the city's population leans towards the higher side, and it might be more appealing to this demographic to have the safety of a rope while climbing, suggesting a potential preference for a traditional rock climbing gym.


The Economic Perspective


From an economic standpoint, the average household income in Cañon City is around $52,648, which is somewhat lower than the state average but could still support a niche market like a climbing gym​.


Additionally, a rock climbing gym may require a larger initial investment due to the need for more specialized equipment and potentially larger facilities. On the other hand, a bouldering gym might be cheaper to set up, with lower walls and less need for expensive equipment.


I'm currently gathering more specific market research and analysis data, including the presence of other similar facilities in or near Cañon City and the preferences of the local population. This additional data will further refine our understanding of the best fit for a new gym in this area. Stay tuned for more in-depth analysis in the next blog post.


In the meantime, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Are you a fan of the adrenaline-pumping heights of rock climbing, or do you prefer the rope-free freedom of bouldering? Let's get the conversation started.


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