Ice climbing is perhaps the most specialized form of climbing. It requires a high level of skill and an even higher level of fitness to pull it off. Ice requires mountaineering gear, specialized training, and often an experienced partner because safety is paramount. But when all goes well, ice climbing offers some amazing experiences in some incredible locations. Here are some spectacular places to go ice climbing:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Learn about the most remote ice climbing spots in the USA |
| Explore underrated ice climbing destinations in the US |
| Plan an epic ice climbing adventure with insider knowledge |
| Discover the most scenic ice climbing spots in the US |
| Check out the top 15 ice climbing destinations in the USA |
| Find quiet and peaceful mountain destinations with REI’s guide |
| Browse ExpedReview’s top 10 mountaineering destinations in the US |
| Get tips for ice climbing in Hokkaido, Japan with Explore-Share’s guide |
| Understand ice climbing safety and equipment |
| Learn how beginners can get started in ice climbing |
Ice climbing is perhaps the most specialized form of climbing
Ice climbing is perhaps the most specialized form of climbing. It requires specific gear, and climbers use ice screws and crampons to ascend vertical ice formations.
Ice climbers also have to carry more weight than other climbers, because they need extra gear for safety purposes. Even though it’s a more dangerous sport than rock climbing, it’s still relatively safe because accidents are rare–but when they do happen, they can be fatal.
Ice climbing requires years of experience before you become an expert; thus most people only try this activity once or twice before giving up on it altogether! You’ll need topnotch fitness levels before attempting any routes too difficult for your skill level so that you don’t get exhausted halfway through your climb (or worse yet–fall).
Looking for a thrilling and unique ice climbing experience? Discover the most remote ice climbing spots in the USA and escape the crowds with our guide on the most remote ice climbing spots in the USA.
Horsetail Falls, Oregon
Horsetail Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The hike takes you to an overlook of Horsetail Falls at 1,000 feet above sea level, but if you’re looking for some adventure and want to climb up the falls themselves, it’s possible!
The area has been developed for ice climbing with over 50 routes that range from beginner to advanced difficulty levels (most are rated 5+).
You can expect about 2 hours roundtrip from the base of Multnomah Falls on this hike if you take your time taking photos along the way and enjoy yourself.
If you’re looking for something more challenging than what Horsetail has to offer, check out nearby Shepperd’s Dell just downriver; there are many more routes here than at Horsetail Falls so plan accordingly!
Based on the semantic of “Horsetail Falls, Oregon”, here is a table with information on some of the best climbing and outdoor gear brands for outdoor enthusiasts visiting this area:
Outdoor Gear Brands for Horsetail Falls, Oregon
| Brand Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Patagonia | Known for its durable and environmentally responsible outdoor clothing and gear, Patagonia is a great choice for hikers and climbers looking for sustainable, high-quality products. |
| Black Diamond | With a wide range of climbing gear, from harnesses to ropes to carabiners, Black Diamond is a go-to brand for climbers of all levels. |
| The North Face | The North Face offers a variety of products for outdoor enthusiasts, including apparel, shoes, and camping gear. Their lightweight and breathable clothing is perfect for hiking in the warmer Oregon months. |
| MSR | For those camping near Horsetail Falls, MSR makes a range of camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, and stoves, that are reliable and can withstand the elements. |
| La Sportiva | La Sportiva makes high-quality footwear and apparel specifically designed for climbing and hiking. Their sturdy and durable shoes are great for hiking trails of all difficulty levels. |
With this table, outdoor enthusiasts visiting Horsetail Falls, Oregon can learn about some of the most popular and trustworthy gear brands for their climbing and hiking needs.
Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Lake Willoughby is a glacial lake in the town of Mount Washington, Vermont. It is located in the Green Mountains and part of the Mount Washington State Park.
The lake has an area of approximately 0.8 square miles (2.1 km2), with a maximum depth of 125 feet (38 m).
Don’t settle for the same old ice climbing spots! Step off the beaten path and explore the most underrated ice climbing spots in the US with our must-see list on the most underrated ice climbing spots in the US.
Lake Superior Coastal Cliffs, Michigan
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and find some solitude, look no further than Lake Superior’s coastal cliffs.
The largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior holds more water than all five Great Lakes combined. The cliffs themselves are located on the north shore of this massive body of water and are approximately 4,000 feet high–making them one of America’s tallest sea cliffs!
This region is known for being an ice climbing mecca due to its consistent cold temperatures and year-round ice formations. Each season brings new challenges as well as unique opportunities for climbers from around the world who come here with their gear in tow hoping to conquer these vertical walls before another season passes by without success.
The Grand Teton Park, Wyoming
The Grand Teton National Park is a national park located in the U.S. state of Wyoming, south of Yellowstone National Park. The park encompasses parts of the Teton Range and includes Jackson Lake as well as most of Jackson Hole (also commonly called “Jackson”). The park has two entrances: one from Idaho on the west and another from Montana on the east side.
When you visit this park you can take advantage of its hiking trails that lead to stunning views; there are also picnic areas where you can eat lunch or enjoy some snacks with friends while taking in nature’s beauty around them.
If you’re looking for something more active than just sightseeing then ice climbing may be right up your alley!
Ice climbing involves using special equipment such as crampons (metal spikes) attached to boots so they don’t slip on frozen surfaces like ice sheets or glaciers while walking up steep inclines towards peaks high above ground level where temperatures are freezing cold even during summer months when most climbers prefer going outdoors instead
Ready for an epic adventure on the ice? From frozen waterfalls to hidden gems, discover the top ice climbing experiences in the US with our insider’s guide on the most epic ice climbing adventures in the USA.
Vail and the Greater Gores, Colorado
Vail is one of the best places to ice climb in the world. With over 200 routes and many different difficulty levels available, it’s easy for beginners to get started here.
If you’re looking for a more challenging climb, try out Mount Bierstadt or Mount Evans (if you’re feeling adventurous). There are plenty of places to stay near Vail so you can make an entire weekend out of it if needed!
Based on the semantic of “Vail and the Greater Gores, Colorado”, here is a table with information on some of the best skiing and snowboarding gear brands for those planning to hit the slopes in this area:
Skiing and Snowboarding Gear Brands for Vail and the Greater Gores, Colorado
| Brand Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Burton | For snowboarders visiting Vail and the Greater Gores, Burton is a top choice for quality gear, including boots, bindings, and boards. They offer equipment for riders of all levels, from beginners to pros. |
| Rossignol | Rossignol makes top-of-the-line skis and ski boots for both men and women. Their products are designed to meet the needs of skiers of all experience levels and styles, from freestyle to backcountry. |
| Oakley | Known for their high-quality ski goggles and sunglasses, Oakley is a top choice for those planning to hit the slopes in Colorado. Their goggles offer superior visibility and protection from the sun’s rays and harsh weather conditions. |
| Columbia | Columbia offers a wide range of ski and snowboarding apparel, from jackets to pants to hats. Their warm and waterproof clothing is perfect for staying comfortable and dry while skiing or snowboarding in Vail and the Greater Gores. |
| Hestra | When it comes to keeping your hands warm and protected while skiing or snowboarding, Hestra gloves are a popular choice. Their gloves are durable and provide excellent grip, making them ideal for tackling both the slopes and backcountry terrain. |
With this table, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can learn about some of the best gear brands for their needs while exploring Vail and the Greater Gores area in Colorado.
The Alaska Range, Alaska
The Alaska Range is a mountain range that runs along the southern edge of the Alaska Peninsula. It is a subrange of the larger Aleutian Range, which extends from the Alaska Peninsula in the west to the Kamchatka Peninsula in the east.
The range’s highest peak is 6194-meter Denali (Mount McKinley), also known as Mount McKinley or Mount Denali, North America’s highest peak and centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve.
Get ready to be blown away by the stunning beauty of the most scenic ice climbing spots in the US! Our photographic journey on the most scenic ice climbing spots in the USA takes you on a visual tour of the best ice climbing destinations in the country.
Smuggler’s Notch, Vermont
Smuggler’s Notch is a mountain pass in the Green Mountains of Vermont. It’s located in the town of Jeffersonville and traversed by US Route 4, which connects New York City with Montreal via Troy and White River Junction.
The notch was named after its use as a smuggling route during colonial times when alcohol was illegal in New England; smugglers would hide their contraband behind rocks or trees until they were ready to move it further south on their journey.
Today, Smuggler’s Notch State Park features hiking trails along its steep cliffs, including one that leads directly into Canada!
The North Cascades National Park, Washington State
The North Cascades National Park is the largest of the three national parks in Washington State. It’s also a popular destination for climbers and hikers, so if you’re looking for an escape from crowds, this might not be your best bet.
However, there are plenty of opportunities to find solitude here–and some spectacular scenery to boot! The park has an extensive trail system that can take you through rugged mountain ranges filled with glaciers and snow-covered peaks. If you’re feeling adventurous (and prepared), try ice climbing on Goat Peak or Mt Baker’s Easton Glacier. You’ll need technical equipment like crampons and ropes but don’t worry–there are guided tours available too!
Planning an ice climbing trip and not sure where to start? Our must-visit list on the top 15 ice climbing destinations in the USA has got you covered, with the best and most popular ice climbing spots that you need to visit in the US.
Lake Louise Provincial Park, Banff National Parks, Canada’s Rocky Mountains. (Not in the USA but close enough to count)
If you’re looking for a place where you can go ice climbing in the winter and get away from it all, look no further than Lake Louise Provincial Park. This park is located on the eastern border of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada and is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The area around Lake Louise is accessible by road so it’s easy to get there via car or bus from Calgary or Banff if you have time on your hands during your visit.
Munising Falls, Michigan
Munising Falls is a popular spot for ice climbing and ice fishing. It’s located in Munising, Michigan–a small town near the shores of Lake Superior. The falls are on the Brule River and can be accessed by hiking trails through woods or by canoeing upriver.
The Munising Falls are known for their sheer drop into deep water below, making it an ideal spot for experienced climbers looking to challenge themselves while enjoying nature’s beauty at its finest.
Gold Butte Area Wilderness, Nevada
Gold Butte is a desert wilderness area in the southern part of Nevada. It’s a good place to go if you want to get away from it all and have an adventure with your friends. There are no designated campsites, so you can camp anywhere you want!
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds or just want to try something new, we hope this list has given you some ideas for your next ice climbing adventure. If none of these spots tickle your fancy, there are plenty more out there!
Just remember that safety is always first when it comes down to choosing a location–so if anything seems unsafe or sketchy (like not having enough anchors), don’t hesitate before calling it quits and heading home safe
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.
