Ice climbing is one of the most thrilling sports on the planet and it’s growing more popular every day. Ice climbing involves scaling vertical walls using ropes, crampons and ice axes.
It all sounds scary but it’s not! When you know what you’re doing, ice climbing can actually be quite safe and fun. If you want to try this sport, here are some of the best places in the United States to do so:
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| The United States is home to some of the best ice climbing and mountaineering spots in the world. |
| Ice climbing requires specialized equipment and should be done with caution, especially for beginners. |
| Research and planning are crucial when selecting an ice climbing or mountaineering destination. |
| Learning from experts and taking courses can help improve skills and safety. |
| Safety always comes first when participating in ice climbing and mountaineering. |
1. Frankenstein Cliff, New Hampshire
Frankenstein Cliff is a 200-foot ice cliff located in New Hampshire. Named after a local climber who died while climbing the cliff, it’s located in Frankenstein Cliffs State Park, which is open from mid-December to mid-March.
The park has been featured on many television shows and movies including “The West Wing” and “Dumb & Dumber”.
Visiting the best ice climbing destinations in the USA is an opportunity of a lifetime. Take a look at our list of top 15 ice climbing destinations to begin your adventure.
2. Hyalite Canyon, Montana
Hyalite Canyon is located in the Gallatin National Forest near Bozeman, Montana. It’s a popular ice climbing destination and has several areas that are well suited for ice climbing.
Some of the most popular spots to climb include:
Hyalite Peak – Ice on this peak can last from November until April depending on weather conditions and snowpack. This is one of the tallest peaks in Montana at 10,853 feet (3,315 m).
The Cascade Creek Area – Located below Avalanche Peak and above Cascade Creek, this area offers some great climbing opportunities as well.
This area requires a longer approach than others because you have to hike up Cascade Creek before hiking along it to reach your starting point near Glacier Point Road above Avalanche Peak’s base camp.
Best Ice Climbing Routes in the USA
| Location | Difficulty Level | Must-Do Route | Popular Tour Operator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ouray, Colorado | Beginner to Advanced | The Skylight | San Juan Mountain Guides |
| The Ghost, Alberta | Intermediate to Advanced | The Replicant | Yamnuska Mountain Adventures |
| Hyalite Canyon, Montana | Intermediate to Advanced | Winter Dance | Montana Alpine Guides |
| Valdez, Alaska | Beginner to Intermediate | Keystone Greensteps | Alaska Mountaineering and Hiking |
| Cody, Wyoming | Intermediate to Advanced | The Fang | Jackson Hole Mountain Guides |
Note: Difficulty levels can vary and change depending on weather conditions and personal experience. It’s recommended to consult with a guide or tour operator before choosing a route in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
3. St. Michael’s College Area, Vermont
One of the most popular spots for ice climbing in the country is St. Michael’s College Area in Vermont. There are many routes ranging from beginner to expert, and it’s a great place to learn and practice ice climbing.
Looking for a challenge? Try the “Golden Ticket”! This route is only for those who have been practicing for a while and want to get into an even more challenging area. It features steep walls with short sections of ice that are attached to rock walls, making this one of the most difficult routes at St. Mike’s College Area.
Ice climbing is not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re brave enough, check out our guide to the most dangerous ice climbing routes in America for the ultimate thrill.
4. The North Conway Area, New Hampshire
The North Conway Area is one of the most popular ice climbing destinations in New Hampshire. Most people go there between mid-December and mid-March, though it can be climbed at other times of the year as well. The peak season runs from January through March.
During this period, you can expect to find plenty of challenging climbing routes that are great for beginners or experts alike. The best part about these spots? They’re all within a half-hour drive from each other!
5. The Ouray Ice Park, Colorado
Ouray Ice Park is located in Ouray, Colorado and is a great place to ice climb in the winter. It’s open year-round, so you can head up there when it’s warm out and enjoy some alpine rock climbing as well.
This park is known for its ice climbing, which includes 90+ routes that range from beginner to expert level difficulty levels.
This park also has a mobile app (available on iOS and Android) that gives you detailed information about each route so you can plan ahead of time what kind of gear to bring with you!
If you’re planning on an ice climbing adventure in the USA, don’t miss out on our insider’s guide to the most epic ice climbing adventures in the country.
6. Rumney Rocks, New Hampshire
Rumney Rocks, located in Rumney, New Hampshire, is a popular ice climbing spot. It’s home to more than 200 routes to choose from and has something for everyone. The rock is craggy and often icy, making for fun climbing for all skill levels.
You can get there by taking I-93 north towards Concord or going south on U.S Route 3 until it meets up with NH Route 12 West towards Gonic/Strafford County line; then take Exit 6 onto Franklin Street (Rte 12 E).
Top Ice Climbing Destinations in New Hampshire
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Rumney Rocks | Located in central New Hampshire, Rumney Rocks has over 900 routes for all levels of climbers, including some of the best ice climbing routes in the state. Known for its steep, technical climbs, Rumney Rocks is a popular destination for advanced climbers. Climbers can rent gear and take classes at the nearby Rhino Guides Outdoor Adventure Company. |
| Cathedral Ledge | Cathedral Ledge is one of the most iconic ice climbing spots in the USA, featuring numerous challenging routes and beautiful views. The nearby Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School offers classes and guides for various skill levels. |
| Franconia Notch | Franconia Notch State Park is a scenic destination with a variety of ice climbing routes for all skill levels. Climbers can also enjoy skiing and other winter sports in the park. |
| Huntington Ravine | Located in the White Mountains, Huntington Ravine offers some of the most challenging and adrenaline-pumping ice climbing routes in New Hampshire. Climbers can rent gear and take classes at the nearby International Mountain Climbing School. |
| Mount Washington | Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast and offers breathtaking views, as well as challenging ice climbing routes. Climbers can rent gear and take classes at the nearby Northeast Mountaineering guide service. |
7. Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Located in Willoughby State Park, Lake Willoughby is the most popular ice climbing spot in Vermont.
Surrounded by rock cliffs and with a variety of routes to choose from, this lake has something for everyone no matter what your skill level may be. If you’re looking to get out on the ice and have some fun, Lake Willoughby is where you want to be!
The lake can be accessed by car or bike, but if you want a more scenic route than just driving there (and who doesn’t love beautiful scenery when they’re trying out their new gear?), try hiking up to it instead!
Not only will this give your legs a little bit more of a workout than they’ll get while driving or biking there, but it also means that when it comes time for climbing practice later on in the day – which should always include warming up – you’ll already have done some of that beforehand.
Looking for a challenge? Get ready to push your limits with the most challenging ice climbing spots in the USA that will put your skills to the test.
8. Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin
Here’s a list of some of the most popular climbing routes at Devil’s Lake State Park:
The Elephant: This route is fairly challenging, but well worth it for those who want to try something new. It starts out on top of Hindsight Wall and ends at the bottom of the Elephant Head wall.
Sidehill Chimney: This is one of the easiest routes in Devil’s Lake State Park. It starts out with a steep snow climb, but after that it becomes less strenuous and more like walking on level ground. However, if you aren’t careful or don’t know where you’re going, there’s a chance you could slip into one of many crevasses here!
Upper Cliff: This route has been described by some as “perfectly safe.” As long as ice climbers are careful not to fall off any ledges along their journey down this mountain face (which can be pretty steep), then they should be fine!
9. Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Located in central Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a state park that is famous for its rock climbing opportunities. The park was established in 1972 and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Located within the Crooked River National Grassland, it covers 619 acres (257 hectares). The park is named after the sandstone cliffs on which it sits; they feature spectacular views of the Crooked River valley and are popular with hikers and climbers alike.
Smith Rock State Park offers many different hiking trails including:
Tower Ridge Trail – This trail passes by several rock climbing areas that are open to visitors. Along this trail you will find some small waterfalls and lookouts where you can get a glimpse of Oregon’s landscape below you.
You may also see wildlife such as deer or birds along this trail but keep an eye out! It’s best not to approach them too closely since they might startle you with their quick movements before running away quickly into the forest.
In addition, be sure not to wear any perfume when visiting this area so as not disturb any animals who might be nearby (for example bears).
If one does happen upon your path unexpectedly then make yourself look big by spreading out your arms wide like wingspan!
This should scare off most predators before fleeing back toward civilization where there are more people around who can help protect us from predators getting too close trying their luck at catching prey.
Climbing is a sport that requires discipline and technique. Learn about some of the most common mistakes you can make and how to avoid them in our guide to the most common mistakes in climbing and how to avoid them whether you’re a beginner or advanced climber.
10. Lake Superior Ice Caves, Michigan
Lake Superior Ice Caves are located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, in Michigan, United States.
The caves are formed by the freezing of water from an underground river, which then forms a layer of ice up to 30 feet (9 meters) thick.
The caves themselves look like blue icicles in a large rock wall and are open for summer tours. If you want to see the caves for yourself and try your hand at ice climbing, make sure you get there early as they fill up fast!
Conclusion
Well, you’ve seen our list of the most thrilling ice climbing spots in the USA. We hope that you now feel inspired to go experience some of these amazing places for yourself! And remember, if you’re planning on heading out there with some friends or family members, don’t forget to bring along some helmets.
These will keep your head protected from falling rocks as well as bumps and bruises while climbing around on frozen waterfalls and cliff sides.
Further reading
Here are some additional resources related to ice climbing and mountaineering destinations in the USA:
5 Best Ice Climbing Routes in the United States: Osprey’s guide to some of the best ice climbing routes in the country.
Top 10 Mountaineering Destinations in the United States: Exped Review’s roundup of the top mountaineering destinations in the USA.
Learn From the Experts: Ice Climb at These 5 Spots: National Geographic’s guide to learning ice climbing from the experts at some of the most thrilling spots in the country.
FAQs
What equipment do I need for ice climbing?
You will need specialized equipment for ice climbing, including ice axes, crampons, a helmet, and a harness. You may also want to invest in warm clothing, such as a base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer, as well as gloves and a hat.
Do I need experience to go ice climbing?
While experience can be helpful, many ice climbing destinations offer courses and guides for climbers of all levels, from beginner to advanced. It is important to do your research and choose a destination and course that fits your skill level.
What is the best time of year for ice climbing?
The best time for ice climbing will depend on the destination and weather conditions. In general, the ice climbing season runs from late fall to early spring, with some areas having longer seasons than others.
How dangerous is ice climbing?
Ice climbing can be a dangerous sport, as climbers are exposed to a variety of hazards, including falls, avalanches, and hypothermia. It is important to always exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet and being aware of potential hazards.
Can I ice climb without a guide?
While it is possible to ice climb without a guide, it is generally not recommended, especially for beginners. A guide can provide valuable instruction, safety tips, and equipment rentals, as well as assist with navigation and emergency situations.
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.
