“Opening Switchback was a natural extension of what we’ve built at Crux,” Crux and Switchback co-founder Grace Nicholas said in a news release. “We wanted a space where people could gather, work and unwind, before or after time in the gym.”
The background
The local rock climbing and bouldering gym can also be found in Central Austin and Pflugerville, with a Houston location slated to open this summer.
The gym’s original South Austin location was located at 121 Pickle Road across from Cosmic, but closed at the end of 2024 after operating since 2016. Crux officials cited affordability concerns as a reason for moving, according to previousCommunity Impact reporting.
"With this new South Austin location, we've created a more versatile, community-centered environment that reflects everything we've learned and where we're headed next," Crux co-founder Kevin Goradia said in a news release. "South Austin is where we started and where we built our community. We're proud to share this facility where people will want to spend their time together."
What’s next
A grand opening celebration will take place on May 30 starting at 11 a.m. at the new gym. The celebration will coincide with the Come and Send It annual climbing competition.
