Ice climbing is a sport that requires some technical expertise and a lot of courage. It’s also one of the best ways to experience the world’s most beautiful scenery, especially when it comes to waterfalls.
So if you’re looking for an activity that combines thrill-seeking with nature appreciation, here are some of my favorite spots to try ice climbing in America:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Ice climbing is a thrilling and challenging sport that can be enjoyed year-round. |
| The USA offers some of the best ice climbing opportunities in the world. |
| It is important to have the right gear and equipment, as well as proper training and safety measures, before attempting an ice climb. |
| There are many different ice climbing destinations to choose from, ranging from beginner-friendly spots to more advanced routes. |
| With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, ice climbing can be an incredibly rewarding experience with breathtaking views and a strong sense of accomplishment. |
Cascade Falls, Montana
Cascade Falls is a waterfall on the Missouri River in Cascade County, Montana, approximately two miles (3.2 km) east of Great Falls.
The waterfall is located on the east side of the river, about 2 miles (3.2 km) downstream from the city of Great Falls.
Cascade Falls can be reached by walking along a short trail that begins at nearby Riverside Park or by driving to its parking lot which is located just off of Highway 200/14th Avenue South by turning south onto River Drive and following signs for “Cascade Falls”.
Looking for more ice climbing spots in the USA? Our guide on the top 15 ice climbing destinations can help you discover even more stunning locations to climb and explore.
Upper Washbowl, New York
Located in the Adirondacks, Upper Washbowl is a popular ice climbing spot that’s easy to get to and offers a lot of routes for beginners.
It’s also known as one of the best places in North America for learning how to ice climb because it has steep inclines on many of its routes.
This can help give you confidence when trying higher-level climbs like those at Glenwood Springs or Lutsen Mountain Resort in Minnesota (if you’re ready for them).
Ice Climbing Destination: Upper Washbowl, New York
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Keene Valley, New York |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
| Climbing Type | Ice Climbing |
| Season | December to March |
| Equipment Needed | Ice axes, crampons, helmet, ropes |
| Accommodation | The Keene Valley Hostel |
| Guided Tours | Alpine Adventures |
| Nearby Attractions | High Falls Gorge, Ausable Chasm, Olympic Sports Complex |
Note: The Keene Valley Hostel and Alpine Adventures are brand names.
Mt. Washington, New Hampshire
Mt. Washington is a 4,000-foot peak in New Hampshire and the highest peak in the Northeast. It’s also home to some of the most challenging ice climbing routes for beginners, including several on Huntington Ravine.
The Mount Washington Observatory (MWO) was built on top of Mount Washington as part of an effort to measure atmospheric pressure changes during winter storms; it’s now used by scientists as well as tourists who want to learn about climate change or watch an eruption from nearby Tuckerman Ravine.
The MWO has glass windows on three sides so you can get a 360° view of your surroundings which include some pretty amazing ice climbing formations!
Are you an ice climbing enthusiast looking for tips and tricks? Our article on the ultimate guide to ice climbing can help you elevate your skills while exploring some of the best spots in the USA.
Stoney Point, Michigan
If you’re new to the sport, Stoney Point is the place for you. It’s a great spot for beginners to learn how to ice climb and self-belay.
The mountain has several different routes available for beginners, each varying in difficulty. And if you’re feeling confident enough, it’s also a great place to practice rappelling. Be sure to bring plenty of water!
Ice Climbing Destination: Stoney Point, Michigan
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Climbing Type | Mixed Climbing |
| Season | November to March |
| Equipment Needed | Ice axe, crampons, helmet, ropes |
| Accommodation | Best Western Sault Ste. Marie |
| Guided Tours | DownWind Sports |
| Nearby Attractions | Soo Locks, The Tower of History, Tahquamenon Falls |
Note: Best Western Sault Ste. Marie and DownWind Sports are brand names.
Devils Lake, Wisconsin
Devils Lake is a great place to learn how to ice climb. It’s one of the most popular ice climbing spots in the country, and it’s close enough to Madison that you can get there easily from anywhere in Wisconsin.
Plus, there are plenty of other places nearby where you can take your lessons once you’ve gotten good at Devils Lake!
Looking to get started with ice climbing? Our beginners’ guide to ice climbing in the USA can help you with everything from gear selection to safety tips, getting you ready to hit the ice with confidence.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a small town in the North Cascades region of Washington. It’s a great place to go ice climbing because there are many different routes to choose from and the best time to go is during the winter months when there is enough snow for you to walk up on.
If you’re interested in trying out ice climbing for the first time, Leavenworth has a lot of options for beginners. First, check out Icicle Canyon the trailhead begins at Icicle Creek Campground (which can be reached by car or shuttle).
The hike itself starts off pretty easy with only about 1/4 mile of walking before reaching Icicle Creek and then ascending slightly higher up into Icicle Basin proper where it gets steeper but still fairly manageable for newbies especially with crampons on!
Stonehurst Ice Crag, British Columbia
Stonehurst Ice Crag is located in British Columbia, Canada. It’s a good place for beginners to get their feet wet because there are only one route and it’s short (100 meters). The difficulty level is easy and the grade of the route is WI3.
Routes at Stonehurst have been described as toproping routes since they’re all bolted up top. If you’re new to ice climbing, this may be a good thing because it means that your belayer will be able to lower you safely if you fall off before reaching the bottom of your climb.
Tired of the crowds? Our guide on the most underrated ice climbing spots showcases some of the hidden gems across the USA, giving you a chance to enjoy some breathtaking climbs without the hustle and bustle.
Lake Louise Icefields, Banff National Park (Alberta) Canada
Lake Louise is a glacier lake in Banff National Park, Canada. There are several hiking trails around the lake and it is accessible by car, but you can also hike there. It is one of the most popular places in the park to ice climb.
Most people who go ice climbing at Lake Louise will do so from one of two locations: either Bow Hut or Lake Agnes Tea House (both located on a road that runs along the southern shore).
The Bow Hut trailhead starts at 3850 meters (12,500 feet) elevation on Mount Temple, which makes this an excellent choice for anyone looking for something more challenging than just walking up to their top rope anchors on Castle Mountain or Mount Nugget.
If you take this route and don’t have any experience leading steep sections yet then I would recommend having someone bring up your gear so they can lead everything while you follow them down into position; this way you can focus on learning how everything works without having to worry about dropping any gear while leading as well!
Cannon Cliff, New Hampshire
Cannon Cliff, New Hampshire is one of the most popular ice climbing destinations in the US. It offers a variety of routes to choose from, and is considered a classic ice climbing destination. The climbing season is from late December to early March.
Looking for an unforgettable adventure as a solo ice climbing adventurer? Check out our guide on the best ice climbing spots for solo adventurers where you can challenge and push yourself to new heights, all while uncovering some of the best destinations in the USA for solo adventurers.
Cathedral Ledge, New Hampshire
Cathedral Ledge is a popular ice climbing destination in New Hampshire. It’s located in Franconia Notch State Park, and the cliffs are on the north side of Cannon Mountain.
The routes at Cathedral Ledge are protected by fixed anchors (as opposed to natural cracks or crevasses), making them ideal for beginners who want to feel safe while they learn how to climb on ice.
Tuckerman Ravine and Huntington Ravine, Maine
Tuckerman Ravine and Huntington Ravine, both in New Hampshire and Maine respectively, are the best places to learn ice climbing in the US.
These two steep-walled canyons are known for challenging routes that range from beginner’s routes to expert-level climbs.
Tuckerman Ravine is located on Mount Washington in New Hampshire’s White Mountains while Huntington Ravine is situated on Mount Bigelow near Acadia National Park.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many options for ice climbing in the United States. The best thing about this sport is that it’s an activity anyone can try all you need is a pair of crampons and an ice axe!
If you’re interested in learning more about ice climbing or have questions about where to go next, check out our website.
Further Reading
Here are some more resources you might find helpful when planning your next ice climbing adventure:
5 Best Ice Climbing Routes in the United States – A comprehensive list of the top ice climbing routes in the USA, with detailed descriptions and helpful tips.
The Best Ice Climbing Destinations Around the World – Discover some of the best ice climbing spots across the globe in this in-depth guide.
The Top Destinations for Ice Climbing – A list of some of the most breathtaking ice climbing destinations from around the world, with tips and suggestions to make the most of your trip.
FAQs
What is ice climbing?
Ice climbing is a type of climbing that involves ascending vertical or near-vertical surfaces of ice using various tools such as ice axes, crampons, and ropes.
What gear do I need for ice climbing?
The gear you need for ice climbing includes technical climbing tools such as ice axes, crampons, and helmets, as well as clothing layers to protect against the cold, wind, and exposure.
Do I need to be in good physical shape to try ice climbing?
While you don’t need to be an elite athlete to try ice climbing, it is a demanding sport that requires some level of fitness, strength, and endurance. It’s important to start with easier climbs and build up your skills and capacity over time.
Is ice climbing dangerous?
Ice climbing can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. It’s important to always climb with an experienced partner, use proper gear and equipment, and pay attention to weather and ice conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.
Are there any beginner-friendly ice climbing spots in the USA?
Yes, there are several beginner-friendly ice climbing spots in the USA, such as the Ouray Ice Park in Colorado and Lee Vining Canyon in California. It’s important to do your research and choose a climb that matches your skill level.
Welcome to my blog! I’m Hellen James, and I’m incredibly passionate about rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering. Join me as I embark on thrilling adventures, conquer vertical challenges, and share my experiences and insights with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
