Ice Climbing Skills with Red River Adventures in Utah
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should maintain good physical fitness with strength and endurance for sustained climbing in cold environments.
Overview
Take your ice climbing skills to the next level with Red River Adventures’ 8-hour intermediate course, set in Utah’s thrilling ice climbing destinations. Learn steep techniques and lead your own climbs under expert guidance.
Ice 201
Ages 8+ • 8 Hours • Our Intermediate Ice Climbing Course!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Elevate your ice climbing skills in this 8-hour intermediate course designed for those ready to progress beyond the basics. Learn steep ice techniques, practice placing protection, and transition to leading pitches under the guidance of certified instructors. Experience the thrill of climbing independently in stunning venues like Wasatch and Maple Canyon.
The perfect level up after you've mastered the basics of ice climbing!
Ages 8+
Duration
8 Hours
Available from December to March
About
The next step in learning how to climb ice. This is for those that have taken our Ice 101 or been Ice climbing and have an understanding of ice climbing movement, anchoring, lowering and repelling.
This is the course for those who want to move beyond single pitch climbing or “following” friends and begin ice climbing on their own. Participants will be introduced to steep Ice techniques, practice placing protection, mock lead and move towards leading pitches while a certified guide monitors the placements.
Includes
- Guides
- Equipment - Harness, helmet, ice tools, boots & crampons
- Guest to provide their own outerwear
Difficulty
Intermediate
Venues
- Wasatch
- Joe’s Valley
- Maple Canyon
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Variable winter temps demand moisture-wicking baselayers and insulated outerwear.
Know your crampons and tools
Familiarize yourself with your gear before arriving to maximize climbing efficiency.
Arrive hydrated and fueled
Cold weather can mask dehydration; bring water and high-energy snacks.
Mind the weather window
Ice quality can change rapidly; trust your guides’ judgment on climb conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mountain goats
- Pine martens
History
Utah’s frozen cliffs have hosted ice climbers since the 1970s, when pioneering ascents established the state’s reputation as a winter climbing hotspot.
Conservation
Red River Adventures promotes Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact to fragile ice and surrounding ecosystems during climbs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Salt Lake City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated climbing jacket
Keeps you warm during extended periods on icy terrain.
winter specific
Mountaineering boots compatible with crampons
Provides necessary support and traction on ice.
winter specific
Helmet
Protects against falling ice and debris.
Waterproof gloves
Protects hands from cold and maintain dexterity for tool handling.
winter specific