Maitland Valley Grotto

Maitland Valley Grotto is one of the newest attractions in Huron County and one of the most unique. Peter May and Matthew Elligson opened the bouldering gym in 2019 and it features 1,200 square feet of rock climbing walls towering 15 feet high.

The bouldering style of rock climbing uses no ropes and focuses on finding specific routes determined by the colour of holds being climbed. A quarter of the holds are changed every week by professional “hold setters”, ensuring that the routes never get old. Regular members can tackle “projects” that can take up to a month to complete, with fresh climbs in between.

“You’ll surprise yourself; anyone can do it,” assures May. The attraction with rock climbing is that it is a full body workout with a real-time puzzle for mental stimulation.

Special provisions under the pandemic stipulate that you will need to book an appointment and passes are limited to two hours at a time. Capacity restrictions are also in place so be sure to call ahead to reserve a time slot. Rigorous sanitization procedures are in place and there are physical distancing guidelines clearly marked for participants. 

The Maitland Valley Grotto is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 12 - 8 p.m. Call ahead for bookings at 519-612-2060. More information is available at www.maitlandvalleygrotto.com