Planning an adventurous outing in New Hampshire? Discover the excitement of large group ice climbing with expert guides in Conway. Perfect for teams and friends eager for winter thrills.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate to high physical fitness, with good endurance and upper body strength.
Wildlife
History
Conway’s ice climbing heritage dates back decades, with local climbers pioneering routes that attract enthusiasts from across the country.
Conservation
The International Mountain Climbing School emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve fragile winter ecosystems and minimize climber impact.
International Mountain Climbing School
Planning an adventurous outing in New Hampshire? Discover the excitement of large group ice climbing with expert guides in Conway. Perfect for teams and friends eager for winter thrills.
International Mountain Climbing School operates from Millinocket, Maine, offering guided climbing and mountaineering instruction across the White Mountains and Mount Washington Valley.
The school provides a range of private and semi‑private programs, family half‑day and full‑day outings, technical clinics, and multi‑day rock climbing courses designed for climbers at varying skill levels. Guided options include Private Guided Rock Climbing (half‑day and full‑day formats) on Cathedral and Whitehorse Ledge granite, family‑focused climbs, and a Three Day Basic Rock Climbing course that teaches traditional multi‑pitch techniques.
Technical clinics emphasize hands‑on skill development: How to Build Top Rope Anchors and Anchor Building and Protection Placement teach anchor systems, gear application, and belay techniques. Advanced courses such as the Self Rescue Course and Alpine Snow and Ice Skills build on foundational knowledge to prepare participants for complex situations and alpine terrain. The Mt. Washington Ascent provides an intensive 8‑hour winter mountaineering experience focused on navigation, crampon use, and self‑arrest.
Instruction is delivered in small groups or private formats and is tailored to participant goals, with attention to safety, communication, and practical skill progression. Participants are advised to bring appropriate clothing, water, and lunch when indicated. Featured on The Adventure Collective, International Mountain Climbing School offers a practical, skills‑based lineup of climbing and mountaineering experiences—from beginner clinics to intermediate and advanced alpine training.
Location
Millinocket, ME
Base for White Mountains programs
Trips Offered
11 trips
Guided climbs, clinics, and courses
Private Options
Private & Semi‑Private
Multiple trips offer private formats
Typical Duration
Half‑day to 3 days
Half‑day, full‑day, multi‑day formats
Reserve a private, semi‑private, family, or multi‑day experience to develop climbing and alpine skills in the White Mountains.
Layer Up for Cold Weather
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outer layers to stay warm and dry on the ice.
Use Proper Footwear
Wear crampons compatible boots to ensure solid footing on icy surfaces.
Stay Hydrated
Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is crucial to maintain energy levels during the climb.
Communicate Clearly
Effective group communication and following your guide’s instructions are key for safety on large climbs.
Insulated Climbing Gloves
Protect your hands from cold and improve grip on your tools.
winter
Helmet
Essential for protecting your head from falling ice and bumps.
Harness
Necessary for secure attachment to ropes during climbs.
Thermal Base Layers
Keeps your body temperature stable during long climbs in cold conditions.
winter