Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice - Year-Round North-Facing Ice Climbs

Terrace, North America Page
ice climbing
mixed routes
north facing
creek crossing
bolted anchors
short approach
Length: 522 ft
Type: Mixed
Stars
Pitches
single pitch
Protected Place
Northern British Columbia
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice offers dependable, north-facing ice climbs that stay frozen through the year near Terrace, BC. A short creek crossing leads to four key lines—Robot Chicken, Holy Corolla, and Lone Wolf variations—providing solid mixed routes with multiple bolt-protected pitches."

Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice - Year-Round North-Facing Ice Climbs

Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice offers climbers a rare, reliable ice climbing venue where cold holds firm throughout the year. Situated just off Kitselas Road near Terrace, British Columbia, this north-facing wall lures ice climbers searching for a chilly challenge amidst the rugged northern wilderness. The scene is set by a short but rewarding approach — a quick walk from the parking area across a small creek leads directly to a solid sheet of ice that blankets the rock face. This spot rarely thaws completely, making it a dependable destination for those looking to sharpen their ice skills beyond the usual winter months.

The climbing here is straightforward yet engaging, focusing on four main lines that run from left to right. Robot Chicken offers a Grade 3- introduction to the ice with approachable flows along its route. For climbers keen on a bit more mixed difficulty, Holy Corolla commands attention with an M6 section negotiable through a tight short corner and a roof with two bolts, finishing on a short pillar secured by a single bolt before topping out at a tree anchor. Lone Wolf presents itself on the left side with two variations—one rated W4- and the other W3+, both delivering solid, vertical ice with reliable protection and punchy moves.

The elevation here is modest, roughly 520 feet above sea level, lending to a crisp, alpine environment without the burden of a long haul. The terrain directly at the crag is manageable — just a few minutes’ stroll from the roadside across the creek. There’s minimal bushwhacking or tricky trail navigation, so climbers can focus on warming up their axes instead of worrying about getting lost.

Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice rests on a predominantly shaded north-facing aspect. This orientation keeps conditions cold and consistent, preserving the ice sheet well through temperate spells and longer seasons. The best climbing season centers on the colder months but may also extend into shoulder periods when the ice remains relatively firm. Expect fluctuating temperatures, so layered clothing and reliable crampons are essential companions.

For gear, standard ice climbing equipment applies — ice tools, crampons, and protection suitable for mixed terrain. Given the bolted routes at Holy Corolla, a light rack of cams and nuts enhances safety beneath the roof and pillar sections where fixed anchors are sparse. Keeping circuits quick and efficient is key to enjoying this crystalline playground. There is no formal descent route described, so climbers typically top out to secured tree anchors and rappel or downclimb carefully.

This area appeals to climbers eager to test their skills on dependable, year-round ice without deep backcountry commitments. The classic routes—Holy Corolla, Lone Wolf (left and right sides), and Robot Chicken—are favorites within the local climbing community and carry solid three-star reputations for good line quality and consistent conditions. Whether you are refining your technique or aiming for an accessible ice destination near Terrace, Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice promises a no-nonsense adventure with a crisp, northern edge.

Access is uncomplicated. Simply drive along Kitselas Road to the 2 km mark, and scan the south side for eye-catching ice flows. Bring sturdy boots and prepare for a short creek crossing. Always check conditions ahead of time—given the wall’s persistent ice, conditions can still vary, but early season or warmer months may see thinner coverage.

In sum, this compact ice climbing crag rings true for anyone hunting for reliable frozen routes close to civilization. Its modest altitude and easy approach compress the adventure into a compact package—pure ice climbing satisfaction grounded in straightforward logistics and steady conditions. Kitselas Road 2 KM Ice balances the chill of northern British Columbia with approachable, varied ice climbs that reward with every swing of the pick.

Climber Safety

Watch for creek conditions at the approach, especially in melt seasons. The rock beneath the ice can be sharp; protection is bolted on some routes but rely on proper placements and caution when topping out to tree anchors.

Area Details

TypeMixed
Pitchessingle pitch
Length522 feet

Local Tips

Park along Kitselas Road at the 2km marker and cross the creek to reach the ice.

North-facing aspect preserves ice conditions most of the year; ideal to check local temps before visiting.

Carry a light rack for bolt-protected mixed sections on Holy Corolla.

Tree anchors are used for topouts—bring slings and a rappel device.

Area Rating

Quality
Consensus:The climbs range from WI2 to M6, offering a variety of mixed difficulty suitable for intermediate to advanced ice climbers. The grading matches expectations for northern BC ice—it feels fair with solid protection and no known sandbagging. Climbers familiar with nearby northern routes will find the grading consistent with local standards.

Gear Requirements

Climbers should bring full ice climbing gear including tools and crampons suitable for mixed terrain. Holy Corolla requires bolt protection through the roof and pillar sections with fixed anchors limited to tree placements.

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Tags

ice climbing
mixed routes
north facing
creek crossing
bolted anchors
short approach