Ready to challenge yourself on vertical ice? Join the Steep Ice Skills program in Conway, NH, and learn expert climbing techniques on stunning icy formations. Perfect for adventurous climbers seeking hands-on guidance.
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Difficulty
expert
Duration
6–10 hours per day
Fitness Level
Participants should have excellent endurance, strength, and experience with technical climbing.
Wildlife
History
Conway’s ice climbing tradition dates back decades, with local climbers pioneering routes on nearby frozen waterfalls.
Conservation
The climbing community actively supports Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact on fragile winter ecosystems.
International Mountain Climbing School
Ready to challenge yourself on vertical ice? Join the Steep Ice Skills program in Conway, NH, and learn expert climbing techniques on stunning icy formations. Perfect for adventurous climbers seeking hands-on guidance.
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 Weather Frequently
Conditions on ice climbs can change rapidly, so always monitor forecasts before and during your trip.
Use Proper Ice Climbing Boots
Wear boots compatible with crampons to ensure secure footing on vertical ice.
Layer Clothing Wisely
Dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay warm and dry throughout climbs.
Hydrate and Snack Regularly
Cold weather can mask dehydration; carry water and high-energy snacks for sustained energy.
Crampons
Essential for gaining traction on steep and vertical ice surfaces.
winter
Ice Axes
Required for climbing, balance, and safety on ice formations.
winter
Helmet
Protects your head from ice and rock fall during climbs.
Insulated, Waterproof Gloves
Keeps hands warm and dry, maintaining grip on tools and ropes.
winter