Levee Park Climbing Boulders

Winona, MN | Sports + Recreation

The City of Winona and ISG expanded upon recent revitalization efforts to Levee Park with the installation of manmade climbing boulders, providing the community with an accessible and safe recreational opportunity.

In 2018, a collaboration between the City and ISG resulted in a $2.5 million reinvigoration of Levee Park that was enthusiastically welcomed by the community and sparked private investments in the nearby downtown area. In 2020, the City called for further revitalization of the eastern half of the park. In response, the Recreation Alliance of Winona, a small group of outdoor enthusiasts, raised money to purchase climbing boulders to contribute to phase two upgrades.

Crafted by El Dorado Climbing Company, the manmade boulders bring a new form of recreation to the area called bouldering. With hand holds carved into the surface, the participant can climb horizontally around the three-dimensional surface without ropes, harnesses, or climbing gear, providing a safe way for climbers of all levels to stay active.

ISG was enlisted to ensure the donated features were securely installed, as well as optimize the surrounding space for safety, functionality, recreation, and future park improvements. The resulting bouldering area is surfaced with engineered wood fiber mulch for softer impact and Porous Pave—a permeable surface made from recycled tires that allows water to permeate. Bike racks, slack line, and hammock post are additional features that create a welcoming environment for any outdoor enthusiast.