Higher Ground Rock Climbing Centre
📍 Belknap Lookout, MI
Higher Ground has operated since 1995 and offers top rope and bouldering for all levels. Dedicated programs for Scout troops, school groups, church groups, a youth climbing club, and team building.
Can't say enough about our experience today with Paulie and Corey at Higher Ground. Took my Scout troop there for some climbing on our campout, with majority non-climbers. The attention to detail and hands-on direction for the Scouts was top notch. Paulie was just great with 15 scouts and under his direction everyone had a blast. Some even completed climbs they didn't think they were capable of. I wish I lived on that side of the state, because I would love to take up climbing and hang out there. Thanks!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Outstanding choice for families visiting for the first time or bringing a Scout troop or school group. Paulie's hands-on instruction style is cited by multiple reviewers as transformative for nervous first-timers, including young children. The gym's small, community-run character means staff attention is high and the atmosphere is low-pressure.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →131 Google reviews
Mike Stucky
“Can't say enough about our experience today with Paulie and Corey at Higher Ground. Took my Scout troop there for some climbing on our campout, with majority non-climbers. The attention to detail and hands-on direction for the Scouts was top notch. Paulie was just great with 15 scouts and under his direction everyone had a blast. Some even completed climbs they didn't think they were capable of. I wish I lived on that side of the state, because I would love to take up climbing and hang out there. Thanks!”
Sydney Aldrich
“Highly recommend Higher Ground! Paulie was so welcoming, down to earth and kind. We had a big group with new climbers and Paulie walked us through the belay process so well. We felt very informed and safe with his teaching. He was available for any questions and really made this an awesome experience for us! Great rental gear. I actually was comfortable in their climbing shoes. This gym rocks (pun intended)!!”
Seth Nichols
“Great gym. It's not shown much on the website/photos, but it IS awesome for bouldering, too. Can't lose there. Edit for internet points: Still the best gym around. Very chill vibes.”
Scott Suidinski
“I took my wife and daughters to Higher Ground for their first time climbing. We all had a blast. Clean and well run. Equipment was new and clean. But the best part was Paulie, who made us feel comfortable and right at home. He was friendly and welcoming. Even my daughters commented on how he enhanced the experience. I’d recommend this place to anyone. You won’t feel intimidated if you show up with no climbing experience or skills.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Higher Ground Rock Climbing Centre has been a Grand Rapids institution since May 1995, run by the Abissi family. The facility features a rope room and bouldering area, with staff-led belay walkthroughs standard for every new group. General Manager Paulie Abissi is named repeatedly in reviews as the standout reason families return — praised for patience with first-timers of all ages. Group packages are explicitly built for Scout troops, school groups, and church outings.
