On August 16, Horizon Climbing officially opened its doors in Champaign, Illinois, founded and owned by Natalie Broadhurst and Mika Malter. After both having fantasized about launching a climbing gym, they realized that their visions aligned perfectly, leading them to focus on creating an inclusive environment for climbers of all levels. “We wanted to establish a welcoming space where beginners, families, and experienced climbers could all thrive,” Malter shared, leveraging their combined experience from working in 14 gyms.
Having lived in Champaign for many years, both founders were well-versed in the local climbing community and recognized a pressing need for a dedicated training facility and youth climbing opportunities. They felt that the area could support multiple climbing gyms, complementing existing ones like Urbana Boulders and the University of Illinois Recreation Center. After deciding to embark on the Horizon project, they began searching for an appropriate location. “We didn’t need a perfect building, but it had to fit our budget and provide enough height for bouldering walls,” Broadhurst noted. Eventually, they found a former fitness gym with an excellent layout, including locker rooms and a front desk, although discovering a suitable space proved more challenging than anticipated due to ceiling height requirements.
With a background in early childhood education, Malter is especially enthusiastic about leading youth programs, including innovative offerings like a toddler climb and play program and future summer camps. Horizon Climbing occupies a 16,000-square-foot facility with 3,000 square feet dedicated to climbing walls that soar 14.5 feet high. The gym also features a Tension Board 2, a spray wall, and a Treadwall, all designed to cater to both serious training and family-friendly climbing experiences. The layout integrates climbing-specific training equipment—such as hangboards and campus boards—with a fitness area equipped with cardio machines and weights, along with yoga and fitness classes.
As experienced routesetters, Broadhurst and Malter prioritized “intentionally inclusive routesetting.” Malter highlighted the common disconnect between gym management and routesetting teams, which can hinder the gym’s alignment with its stated values. “At Horizon, the admins are also the routesetters. This allows us to ensure our routes are accessible to all,” she explained. They are committed to making climbing feasible for everyone by considering various factors such as different climber heights and hand sizes, as well as strategic placement of holds.
Broadhurst emphasized the importance of hiring routesetters who share these values, ensuring a diverse setting team committed to accessibility and safety. They consciously crafted job descriptions that attracted a wide array of applicants, resulting in a rich pool of talent. Looking ahead, Horizon plans to host events aimed at encouraging underrepresented groups in climbing, including an annual competition designed by and for women and non-binary climbers. By fostering an inclusive community, Horizon Climbing is poised to make a lasting impact in Champaign’s climbing scene.
