College Outside recently featured the University Recreation Outdoors climbing facilities, naming them among the "swankiest" climbing gyms in the United States. The climbing facilities, located in the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building, feature bouldering, top-roping, lead climbing, auto belays, and adaptive climbing. UREC Outdoors offers open climb hours, free belay classes, as well as courses in lead climbing and multi-pitch techniques.

"We offer a variety of events each semester including blacklight bouldering, local and national adventure trips, ladies' night, and bouldering competitions," said Olivia Vitaterna, student staff.

"Our rock climbing facilities are great for students who want to discover the sport," said Beckie Irvin, outdoors graduate assistant.

"The Ozarks are unique in that the area has some of the best climbing in this part of the country, and students can learn the basics on campus at UREC."

In addition to its climbing facilities and adventure trip programming, UREC Outdoors offers camping, bike, and boat rentals, as well as a full service bike shop that provides the U of A community a convenient option for keeping their bikes maintained and running properly.