Steep Ice Skills Climbing Adventure in Conway, NH
Difficulty
expert
Duration
6–10 hours per day
Fitness Level
Participants should have excellent endurance, strength, and experience with technical climbing.
Overview
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.
Steep Ice Skills
1 or 2 Days • Move efficiently
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of vertical ice climbing, tackling diverse formations like chandeliers and pillars. This immersive program combines technique refinement with adventurous multi-pitch climbs, teaching essential skills such as ice protection placement and axe usage. Whether you choose one or two days, prepare for an unforgettable journey into stunning icy landscapes.
Get the chance to climb many different types of steep ice
About
Vertical ice takes on many forms – mushrooms, bulges, cauliflower, candlesticks, chandeliers, pillars, curtains, smears, and flows. Brittle or punky, blue or yellow – it takes imagination and experience to move efficiently and confidently on this awe-inspiring terrain. You will get the chance to climb many different types of steep ice, learn to establish a resting position, placement and removal of ice protection, proper use of ice axe leashes, and incorporating rock climbing movements into your ice climbing awareness. This can be a one or two day program, part of which will be spent top rope climbing in order to focus on technique. In addition we will attempt a steep multi-pitch climb.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- snowshoe hare
- American marten
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Crampons
Essential for gaining traction on steep and vertical ice surfaces.
winter specific
Ice Axes
Required for climbing, balance, and safety on ice formations.
winter specific
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 specific