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How to Build an Outdoor Backyard Climbing Wall for Kids

Rock climbing helps children develop strength, endurance and flexibility. Better yet, it's a fun family past time. You can integrate climbing or bouldering into most family hiking ventures. Plus, the protective gear allows for a safe haven to push the envelope. Building a climbing wall in your yard provides additional stimulation for home play. Your children can work on their physical skills and problem solving, making for better climbers and well-rounded, self-confident individuals.

Things You'll Need

  • Climbing holds
  • Water-resistant paint
  • Paint roller and tray
  • 2 trees, 8 feet apart
  • Spade shovel
  • Quick-setting concrete mix
  • Water
  • Wheel barrow
  • Wood post, 4-inch by 4-inch, 8.5 feet high
  • 2 sheets of plywood, 1/2-inch
  • Wood screws
  • Electric drill with driver bit
  • Step ladder
  • 2 helpers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dig a 6-inch hole in the ground between the two trees at the mid-point. Place the end of the post into the hole and have a friend hold it upright.

    • 2

      Mix the concrete mix and water in the wheel barrow. Shovel the concrete into the hole. Allow it to set.

    • 3

      Paint both sides of the plywood with the paint and rollers.

    • 4

      Place a sheet of plywood, lengthwise, on the ground against the trees and post. Screw it into place with the wood screws and driver.

    • 5

      Lift the other sheet of plywood into place directly above the first sheet. Have your helpers hold it while you screw it to the trees and post.

    • 6

      Insert additional screws, for support, if needed.

    • 7

      Affix various holds to the plywood sheets with the screws and driver. Place the foot holds and hand holds in an alternating pattern.