Ice Climbing

According to the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA), “Ice Climbing
is an activity of climbing through ice structures or formations. These ice formations may be
in the form of frozen waterfalls, ice falls, ice slabs or rocks covered with frozen water
flow or ice, or they may be artificial structures covered with ice. Ice climbing is a crucial
part of any mountaineering activity or training. What makes Ice Climbing appealing is the
interaction with the ice which means routes constantly change due to the characteristics of
the natural element. These features make it a unique adrenaline driven action sport.”

Ice climbing is a special sort of experience. It is not for the feint of heart. It is cold
and dangerous. Be sure you research the techniques and equipment before you try this and then
get expert instruction when you start.

The South Fork of the Shoshone River is a beautiful mountain valley near the town of Cody in
northwest Wyoming. Hundreds of waterfalls freeze there every winter to offer one of the
highest concentrations of waterfall ice climbing in the continental US.

There is a man made ice park in Ouray, Colorado. Only a short walk from town, the Ouray Ice
Park offers climbs for all ability levels, including an area for kids. Local guides are
available to teach you the skills you need. Ice Climbing season in Ouray runs from December-
March.

There are many ice climbing opportunities in Alaska-
and Ice climbs and schools in the Catskills, N.Y.