Discover the thrill of ice climbing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains with expert guidance from Jeni Calzaretta. This women-only weekend blends climbing, yoga, and comfort at Cranmore Mountain Lodge, perfect for all levels.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness with basic climbing endurance and the ability to manage physical effort in cold, snowy conditions.
Wildlife
History
Conway sits within the historic Mount Washington Valley, a region with a long tradition of winter sports dating back over a century.
Conservation
The local guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on fragile winter ecosystems and preserve natural ice formations.
International Mountain Climbing School
Discover the thrill of ice climbing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains with expert guidance from Jeni Calzaretta. This women-only weekend blends climbing, yoga, and comfort at Cranmore Mountain Lodge, perfect for all levels.
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.
Dress in moisture-wicking layers
Wear breathable, moisture-wicking base layers to stay warm and dry during your ice climbs.
Bring waterproof gloves
Protect your hands from cold and wet conditions with durable, waterproof gloves specialized for ice climbing.
Stay hydrated between climbs
Cold can mask dehydration, so remember to drink water regularly even when you don’t feel thirsty.
Arrive the day before for acclimatization
Give yourself time to adjust to cold temperatures and become familiar with the lodge and equipment.
Ice climbing boots
Stiff, insulated boots provide support and warmth necessary for ice climbing.
winter
Crampons
Essential for traction on ice surfaces during climbs.
winter
Helmet
Protects your head from falling ice and impacts.
winter
Insulated gloves
Keeps hands warm while allowing dexterity to use tools and ropes.
winter