Get ready to scale frozen waterfalls in Conway, NH with expert guides. This private ice climbing adventure delivers adrenaline and one-on-one coaching in a stunning winter paradise.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with endurance for sustained climbing and hiking.
Wildlife
History
Crawford Notch has long been a gateway for adventurers exploring the White Mountains and was an important route for early settlers.
Conservation
The region emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to minimize human impact on fragile winter ecosystems and maintain natural beauty.
International Mountain Climbing School
Get ready to scale frozen waterfalls in Conway, NH with expert guides. This private ice climbing adventure delivers adrenaline and one-on-one coaching in a stunning winter paradise.
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 Changing Conditions
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear to stay warm and dry during your climb.
Bring Waterproof Gloves
Gloves with good grip and waterproofing keep your hands warm and secure when handling ice tools.
Listen Closely to Your Guide
Safety on ice requires following your guide’s instructions carefully for efficient and secure climbing.
Prepare for Cold Feet
Wear insulated, waterproof boots compatible with crampons to maintain comfort throughout the day.
Insulated Waterproof Boots
Keeps feet warm and dry while providing crampon compatibility for secure footing.
winter
Helmet
Protects your head from falling ice and accidents during climbs.
Technical Ice Axes
Essential for safe ascent and stability on steep frozen surfaces.
winter
Moisture-Wicking Base Layers
Helps regulate body temperature and keeps sweat away from skin.
winter