Ice climbing is considered one of the most extreme winter sports. Every winter, ice climbers scale icefalls, frozen waterfalls, and cliffs covered in ice with little more than ice picks and cramp-ons – and these extreme challenges provide more than just exercise and adrenaline; they allow climber access to some of the most amazing views in the country. Are you one of them? Check out this list of top ice climbing destinations in the U.S. and get out there and climb this season.
Ouray Ice Park: Ouray, Colorado
When people talk about ice climbing in the U.S. this park is often part of the conversation. Ouray Ice Park earns the top spot on our list due to its size: it has over 100 climbing routes! This amazing ice climber’s paradise is built by ice farmers and sprinklers every year.
What you need to know:
- The park is open from Mid-December to Mid-March and is FREE to the public.
- You need to bring your own gear, or rent some. Ouray Ice Park does not rent gear. (Need gear? Check out our super affordable lease options!)
- Beginners: make sure to hire a licensed guide to show you the ropes!
- If driving into Ouray you should have winter snow tires on your vehicle.
- Check out the 25th Ouray Ice Festival: January 23-26, 2020
Tip: Visit the park in January or March, and plan to go mid-week. You’ll have the park to yourself!
Learn more here: http://ourayicepark.com/
Frankenstein Cliff: Crawford Notch State Park, New Hampshire
The ice climbing at Frankenstein Cliff is said to be some of the best in the Northeast U.S. With grades ranging from 3 to 5’s, there are a mixed variety of climbs for any experience level. Frankenstein Cliff is made up of numerous small cliff bands, escarpments, cliffs, and gully formations. Check out climbs such as ‘Dracula,’ a full pitch of steep ice, or the easier “Standard Route,’ where many novice ice climbers get their start.
What you need to know:
- Frankenstein Cliff is a popular destination on mid-winter weekends. If you aren’t able to get a spot to park or climb, you can head up the road a ways and climb Mount Willard.
- This is an ideal place for beginner and intermediate climbers to practice on shorter climbs and hone their skills
Learn more: https://www.mountainproject.com/area/105890751/frankenstein-ice
Keystone Canyon: Valdez, Alaska
Known as the premier ice climbing destination north of the Canadian border, Keystone Canyon in Valdez, Alaska takes the word ‘adventure’ to a whole other level. Keystone Canyon draws experienced ice-climbers from around the world and boasts amazing views and multiple pitches to climb. Most routes take only 5-10 minutes of hiking to the base to reach the beautiful deep blue ice. This place is a must see for any ice-climber or adventure aficionado!
Keystone Canyon has its own microclimate due to the extreme nature of the geology in the canyon. The narrow pass constricts and increases the velocity of the wind, and leads to sick ice formations especially in an area known as ‘Hung Jury.’
What you need to know:
- Most people fly into Anchorage and then drive out to Valdez. Be sure to check road conditions before attempting the drive!
- You can catch a flight on RAVN Aviation from Anchorage for about $250
Learn more: http://www.alaskaiceclimbing.com/keystonecanyon.htm
image courtesy of redbull.com
