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How long does a visit to the climbing forest take?

19 January 2026

An important question when planning your outing: how long does climbing in the climbing forest take? And how much time should you plan for? Here you can read all about the duration of the visit to the climbing forest, from arrival to departure, so you can plan your day well.

Total duration of climbing forest: 3 to 3.5 hours

How much time does climbing forest take? Plan about 3 to 3.5 hours in total:

Time slot for a climbing outing

  • 10-15 min: Arrival and preparation
  • 30 min: Mandatory safety instruction
  • 2.5 hours: Free climbing through courses
  • 15 min: Finalise and hand in materials

Total: about 3 hours of climbing activity + 15-30 minutes before and after

This will give you a complete picture of the time investment climbing forest.

Arrival: 10-15 minutes before start time

How early should you be there at the climbing forest? It is recommended to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your booked start time.

Why come early?

You need this time for:

  • Check in at the cash desk
  • Storing items in free lockers
  • Toilet visit arrange
  • Start relaxed without delay

Arriving late to the climbing forest may mean missing instruction or having less climbing time, so be on time!

Safety instruction: 30 minutes

The safety instruction in the climbing forest lasts about 30 minutes and is compulsory for all climbers.

What happens during instruction?

  • Safety system explanation
  • Demonstration of climbing harness and equipment
  • Instruction self-assurance principle
  • Rules and codes of conduct in the climbing forest
  • Practice on demo course

Free climbing: 2.5 hours

Instruction is followed by the real thing: climbing independently. You will have about 2.5 hours of climbing time.

What can you do in 2.5 hours?

Depends on your pace and choices:

  • Climb 3-6 different routes
  • Mix of easy and difficult courses
  • Rest breaks between routes
  • Review of favourite courses
  • Challenge at different heights

Is 2.5 hours enough?

For most visitors: yes, plenty!

Is this enough climbing time?

  • It is physically tiring: after 2-3 hours you are usually tired
  • Multiple routes are possible at this time
  • You have time for breaks and rest
  • Most climbers have had enough after this period

How many routes in climbing forest you do depends on:

  • Difficulty level routes (black takes longer than orange)
  • Your own pace (easy or sporty)
  • Rest stops between courses
  • Waiting times at busy times

Completion and departure: 15 minutes

After your climbing time, closing time is needed:

What happens at closure?

  • Handing in material
  • Empty locker: Collecting items
  • Washing hands: Facilities available
  • Possible afterglow: At catering or terrace

Plan about 15 minutes for this.

Frequently asked questions about duration

On average, how long do you spend in a climbing forest?

3 to 2.5 hours total, including 2.5 hours of actual free climbing.

Can I stay in the climbing forest all day?

No, the tickets are for a 3-hour climbing outing.

What if I am tired after just 1 hour?

You can always stop earlier, but you won't get a refund. You can hand in your seatbelt when you are done and go home.

How many routes can I do during climbing time?

Average 3-6 routes, depending on difficulty and your pace. Allow for 20-40 minutes per route.

Conclusion: schedule 3 to 3.5 hours

How long does a visit to the climbing forest take? Count on 3 to 3.5 hours total: arrive 10-15 minutes before your start time, follow 30 minutes of instruction and then enjoy 2.5 hours of free climbing. This is more than enough for most visitors to try several routes, take breaks and have a great climbing experience. Want to make the most of the full 3 hours? Then choose a start time at least 3 hours before closing time. Perfect for an active morning or afternoon full of adventure!

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Choose a location

Each of the locations is unique, but one thing they have in common is the beautiful surroundings. 

All our climbing forests are located in real forests, where we do not use climbing poles. This gives you the best climbing experience! We build and maintain the routes ourselves and they are inspected externally for safety. Our staff is trained to give safety instructions and to give you the best experience. A day you will never forget!