Step up your ice climbing game in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains with expert instruction and challenging Grade-5 routes. Perfect for climbers ready to push their limits safely.
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Difficulty
expert
Duration
4–6 hours per session
Fitness Level
Participants should have strong cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength, particularly in the upper body and core, along with good balance and flexibility.
Wildlife
History
Conway and the surrounding White Mountains have a rich climbing heritage dating back to early 20th-century explorers who pioneered ice climbing routes here.
Conservation
Local guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect delicate winter ecosystems and ensure safe continued access to ice climbing routes.
International Mountain Climbing School
Step up your ice climbing game in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains with expert instruction and challenging Grade-5 routes. Perfect for climbers ready to push their limits safely.
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.
Check Ice Conditions Daily
Ice formations can change rapidly; always check with guides about the latest conditions before setting out.
Layer Clothing for Cold Weather
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outer layers to stay warm without overheating.
Practice Self-Arrest Techniques
Falling on steep ice can be dangerous; knowing how to self-arrest is vital for safety.
Use Proper Ice Climbing Gear
Use crampons and ice tools designed for Grade-5 ice to improve grip and stability.
Technical Ice Climbing Boots
Rigid boots compatible with crampons are necessary for traction and support on ice.
winter
Ice Axes / Ice Tools
Specialized axes are needed to secure grip and aid ascent on icy surfaces.
winter
Layered Insulated Clothing
Multiple layers keep you warm while allowing moisture escape during strenuous climbs.
winter
Helmet with Chin Strap
Protects your head from falling ice and accidental impacts on the climb.