challenging
4–8 hours
Good cardiovascular stamina and strength are necessary to endure sustained vertical routes and multi-hour climbs.
Discover the electrifying challenge of mixed climbing in Conway, New Hampshire, where granite cliffs meet seasonal ice. Perfect for climbers ready to blend rock and ice skills, this adventure promises diverse terrain and expert guidance.
1 or 2 Days • Join Us!
Elevate your climbing skills with this advanced mixed climbing course, where you'll master techniques for navigating challenging rock and ice terrains. Experience the thrill of placing crampons on vertical ice and underclinging while honing essential skills for every mountaineer. Join us to become the best alpinist you can be!
Imagine stemming wide over a rock overhang then placing your left crampon delicately in the pocket of a vertical ice curtain with the right crampon on a small edge in perfect granite. Underclinging the ice with your gloved hand while reaching to hook your ice tool in the thin cracks above. This is mixed climbing and it is as old as the mountains themselves and as new as the latest craze of climbing difficult and gymnastic mixed rock and ice routes. The “M” grades are here so join us to learn these exciting new techniques. Mixed climbing skills should be part of every mountaineers bag of tricks because it is normal to encounter snow, rock and ice terrain in the big mountains as well as the routes in Huntington Ravine. Prepare yourself to be the best alpinist possible with this advanced level course.
Conway’s mixed climbing conditions can shift rapidly; always monitor local weather forecasts before heading out.
Temperatures can vary dramatically between rock and ice sections; dress in moisture-wicking, insulating layers.
Ensure crampons and climbing boots are compatible and fit well for both rock and ice segments.
If new to mixed climbing, book an instructor-led session to learn safe technique and route-finding in Conway’s varied terrain.
Conway’s climbing roots date back over a century, with early alpinists pioneering routes that shaped New England’s climbing identity.
Climbers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile alpine vegetation and minimize erosion on approach trails.
Specialized tools are vital for secure placements on ice and mixed terrain.
winter specific
Essential for traction on ice and snow-covered rock surfaces.
winter specific
Protects against rockfall and ice chips, critical for safety on mixed routes.
Allows climbers to adapt to temperature changes between rock and ice sections.
fall specific