Ice climbing is a unique form of adventure that takes you to some of the most remote areas of the United States.
If you’re an experienced climber, this is an activity that will challenge your skills and allow you to explore some stunning landscapes. For beginners, however, ice climbing can be quite intimidating: there’s no safety net!
Even if you have experience with traditional rock climbing, there are several factors that make ice climbing so different from its ground-based counterpart.
The following is a list of our favorite locations for those looking for an adrenaline-filled experience in America’s backcountry:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| The video showcases Alex Honnold’s free solo climb of El Capitan, Yosemite National Park, California. |
| Climbers and mountaineers can find additional information and tips on rock climbing and mountaineering from Unified Climbing’s website. |
| Expert tips provide valuable insights on mastering the speed climbing route. |
| The unified climbing website provides a comprehensive guide to the world’s most dangerous peaks and the best gear for mountaineering expeditions. |
| Discover the highest summits in the world and start planning your next mountaineering journey. |
| If you’re interested in ice climbing, there are resources available that offer helpful tips and recommendations on the best destinations to explore. |
Ouray, Colorado
Ouray is a small town that is located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. The town is home to the Ouray Ice Park, which is one of the most popular ice climbing areas in the world and is considered by many to be one of the best places for ice climbing in North America.
Building your rock climbing skills and technique takes practice, patience, and dedication. Expert tips for mastering the speed climbing route provide valuable insights on speed climbing to help take your climbing skills to the next level.
Cannon Cliff, New Hampshire
Cannon Cliff is a classic ice climbing destination. It has over 40 routes and is located in Franconia Notch State Park, an area that’s popular with ice climbers. The climbs range from easy to challenging.
For example, if you’re just starting out, try the Easy Way Out or Bimbo Nightmare–they both have top-rope anchors so you don’t have to climb down yourself! If you’re more experienced and looking for more of a challenge, check out The Flight of the Squirrel (rated 5.5).
If you want to stay overnight at the base of Cannon Cliff, there are several campgrounds nearby including Fabyan Brook Campground and Lost River Gorge Campground.
Top Brands for Cannon Cliff Climbing Gear
| Brand | Product |
|---|---|
| Black Diamond | Camalot C4 |
| Petzl | Grigri Belay Device |
| La Sportiva | Miura Climbing Shoes |
| Mammut | Twilight Dry Rope |
| Arc’teryx | Gamma Rock Pant |
| Metolius | Ultralight TCU |
| Outdoor Research | Crocodiles Gaiters |
Cannon Cliff, New Hampshire is known for its challenging and technical climbs, making it a popular destination for climbers. To help make the climb easier and more enjoyable, it’s important to have quality climbing gear from reputable brands. This table provides an overview of some of the top brands and their recommended products for climbing at Cannon Cliff.
Vail, Colorado
Vail is a great place to go ice climbing in the winter because of the quality of the ice, the accessibility, and the scenery.
There are a lot of different routes to choose from.
The quality of Vail’s ice is world-class. There are multiple ice climbing shops in town with knowledgeable staff who can help you find a route that fits your abilities and preferences.
Routes range from beginner-friendly easy climbs to more advanced challenges where you’ll be forced to use all your skills just to stay safe on an icy surface that doesn’t give up easily!
You can also access these places via public transportation or have someone drop you off at one location near another so that each day will feel like a new adventure as you try something new each time out there on those frozen waters
Looking for the ultimate climbing challenge? Discover the most dangerous peaks in the world with Unified Climbing’s guide and find out if you have what it takes to attempt these extreme climbs.
Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Lake Willoughby is a glacial lake located in the Green Mountains of Vermont. It’s one of the most popular ice climbing spots in the U.S., and it’s a beautiful setting for ice climbing and cross-country skiing.
Top Brands for Lake Willoughby Ice Climbing Gear
| Brand | Product |
|---|---|
| Black Diamond | Sabretooth Pro Crampons |
| Petzl | NOMIC Ice Axe |
| Mammut | Eisfeld Guide Softshell Jacket |
| La Sportiva | Nepal Cube GTX Mountaineering Boots |
| Arc’teryx | Alpha AR Glove |
| Outdoor Research | Men’s Winter Ferrosi Jacket |
Lake Willoughby in Vermont is a popular destination for ice climbers seeking a thrilling and challenging experience. However, it’s important to have the right gear to stay safe and comfortable while climbing. This table lists some of the top recommended brands and products for ice climbing at Lake Willoughby, including crampons, ice axes, jackets, boots, gloves, and more.
Hyalite Canyon, Montana
Hyalite Canyon is located in the Gallatin National Forest just outside of Bozeman, Montana. It’s a popular spot for ice climbing and there are many routes to choose from that range from easy beginner climbs to advanced climbs.
The ice is usually in good condition, with the exception of occasionally warm weather that may make some areas unsafe when it’s warm out (usually early spring or late fall).
Even during these times though, there will always be plenty of other options available at Hyalite Canyon so don’t worry too much about finding yourself unable to climb on your trip here!
The best time to climb at Hyalite Canyon is during winter months but keep in mind: snowmobiles do travel through this area often so if you’re planning on going solo you’ll have to carry everything out on foot (or bike).
If you’re looking for something less strenuous but still want an isolated setting then head over toward Bear Creek Pass where there are ample opportunities along mostly moderate grades;
However if you’re looking for something more challenging then go straight down into Lower Hyalite Creek where there are plenty of steep walls awaiting climbers both novice and experienced alike!
Climbing can put you in some precarious situations, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a safe and exhilarating experience. Learn how to stay safe on the mountain with Unified Climbing’s expert guide, packed with valuable tips on staying safe during your climbs.
Franklin Ice Cave, Washington
Located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, near Glacier, Washington and just a few miles north of Interstate 90, this is one of the most accessible ice caves in the country.
The cave itself is large and well-lit it’s located at nearly 6500 feet above sea level (that’s 1837 meters), which means that it’s almost always covered in snow.
You’ll want to be sure to bring crampons and an ice axe if you’re going during this time; otherwise, long pants are recommended as well.
Lake Superior’s Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner, Lake Superior’s Apostle Islands are the perfect destination for a day trip.
The glacial ice caves that form in winter and spring are one of Wisconsin’s most popular tourist attractions.
These caves, formed by the pressure of wind and waves against the cliffs, take about two hours to hike to but once there, you can explore their icy confines for as long as you like (and even stick around overnight).
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is open from mid-May through late October; here’s what to know before you go:
Pinnacles National Park, California
Ice climbing is a thrilling way to enjoy an outdoor adventure, and Pinnacles National Park is one of the best places to do it. There are over 240 routes at Pinnacles, so you can easily find one that suits your skill level!
Located in California (just south of San Francisco), Pinnacles offers great scenery and fantastic routes for beginner and intermediate climbers.
Some of these routes can be accessed by car or shuttle bus; others require a two-mile hike into the park itself. If you’re looking for an easy place to start ice climbing with no previous experience necessary, this might be a good choice!
The right gear can make your climbing experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Find the best gear for your next climbing expedition with Unified Climbing’s gear guide and be fully equipped for your next adventure.
Bridalveil Falls in Telluride, Colorado
Bridalveil Falls is one of the best ice climbing spots in the country. It’s located right outside of Telluride and offers beginner and experienced climbers a range of routes to choose from.
The falls are beautiful, accessible year-round (in winter, you’ll just need to check avalanche conditions), and you can even walk right up to them via trails that circle around this majestic natural wonder.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Located on the Lake Superior shoreline in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a national park with over 40 miles of shoreline.
The name comes from its beautiful sandstone cliffs that appear as though they’re covered in paintings. If you’ve got some time to spare, this is an amazing place to explore by hiking or kayaking.
Mountaineering can be a transformative experience, pushing you to your limits while rewarding you with unforgettable sights and unparalleled experiences. Discover the world’s highest summits with Unified Climbing’s top 10 list and start planning your next mountaineering journey.
Hidden Falls Ice Park in Bozeman, Montana
Hidden Falls is a great place to go ice climbing in Montana. If you are looking for a moderate ice route, this is the one! Hidden Falls is located in Gallatin Canyon, which is near Bozeman, MT.
What to expect:
- There are 20 routes that range from 40-100 feet long (it’s best to climb with someone else or be an advanced climber).
- The park has been around since the early 80s but has been closed due to winter weather until 2015 when it was re-opened after years of being closed during snowy winters.
The White Mountains of New Hampshire
The White Mountains of New Hampshire are a great place for anyone who wants to do some solo ice climbing.
It’s a beautiful place, with lots of different mountains and plenty of options for ice climbing. You can do your own thing, or join an organized group if you want more people around.
To get there: From Boston, take the Mass Pike north through Connecticut and Massachusetts into New Hampshire.
Look for signs that say Mount Washington Auto Road – this is where you want to turn off onto US Route 302 in Gorham (about 90 miles from Boston).
The road is well marked, but watch out it’s busy! Don’t let this deter you though; just keep an eye out so as not to miss it when traffic gets heavy near Mt Washington itself (the last 15 miles before reaching parking at Tuckerman Ravine).
How much does it cost? There are no fees associated with using any part of this area except for parking at Tuckerman Ravine ($5/day).
If taking advantage of guided programs offered by AMC Guides or American Alpine Institute guides costs extra money — find out from them directly before booking anything!
Conclusion
If you love the idea of exploring the mountains but don’t have anyone to climb them with, ice climbing is an excellent option.
It takes a lot of equipment, but if you’re willing to invest in learning this sport, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences ever!
Check out these amazing spots for solo adventurers who want something new and exciting in their lives.
Further Reading
If you’re looking to learn more about ice climbing and discover some of the best destinations for this exhilarating sport, check out these resources:
The Best Ice Climbing Destinations: A comprehensive guide to some of the world’s top ice climbing destinations, with insights on the best times to go and what to expect.
The Top Destinations for Ice Climbing: A list of some of the world’s top ice climbing destinations, with information about the climbing routes, local accommodations, and more.
Ice Climbing: A guide to ice climbing, including tips for beginners, gear recommendations, and a list of some of the top ice climbing destinations in the United States.
FAQs
What is ice climbing?
Ice climbing is a sport that involves using specialized equipment to climb ice formations such as frozen waterfalls, glaciers, and ice formations on mountains.
What equipment do I need for ice climbing?
Some essential equipment for ice climbing includes crampons, ice axes, helmets, harnesses, ropes, and specialized boots designed for ice climbing.
How difficult is ice climbing?
Ice climbing can be quite challenging, as it requires a combination of physical fitness, technical skill, and mental fortitude. However, with proper training and practice, many people are able to enjoy this thrilling sport.
Is ice climbing dangerous?
Ice climbing poses certain risks, including falls, hypothermia, and the danger of falling ice or rock. However, with proper training, safety precautions, and equipment, many of these risks can be minimized.
Where are the best places to go ice climbing?
Some of the world’s top destinations for ice climbing include Ouray Ice Park in Colorado, Chamonix in France, Rjukan in Norway, and the Canadian Rockies in Canada.
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.
