Each winter, the Brandis Ice Climbing Festival draws adventurers into an arena carved by ice and stone, offering a rare opportunity to engage with climbing that is fiercely itself—fierce ice formations rising from the rugged cliffs. Brandis, located near the charming town of Lander, Wyoming, transforms into a playground where frozen waterfalls dare climbers to test their skills.

The festival is held on varied terrain—from steep ice walls to mixed routes featuring rock and ice—spanning elevations up to 7,500 feet. The climbs range from moderate to expert levels, making it accessible for enthusiasts who have basic technical climbing experience as well as seasoned alpinists seeking a challenge. Forested approaches wind through pine and fir, their branches heavy with snow, offering quiet moments before the imposing ice begins to demand attention.

Beyond the climbing itself, the festival is a hub of community and education. Workshops on ice safety, gear fitting, and avalanche awareness run alongside hands-on clinics that encourage incremental progression. This practical focus ensures everyone, from passionate beginners to seasoned pros, leaves better prepared and more confident.

Getting there requires planning. The approach trail usually involves a 3-mile trek with approximately 800 feet of elevation gain. Expect uneven snow-packed terrain that can become slick with frost; wear sturdy, insulated footwear with good traction. Staying hydrated is crucial—cold weather often dulls thirst signals, but physical exertion makes water vital. Layering is your best defense against fluctuating temperatures: base layers to wick moisture, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof shell for wind and snow.

Timing your visit around the festival dates—typically late January to early February—ensures the ice is stable but not overly brittle. Early mornings offer the best light and colder ice conditions, while afternoon sun can soften surfaces and increase risk.

Community-built anchor points and restricted climbing zones protect the fragile environment while enhancing safety. The festival emphasizes a leave-no-trace ethic that keeps the icy cliffs pristine for future adventurers.

For those seeking more than the climb, local trails reveal quiet viewpoints where icy spires catch glints of sunlight, and mule deer occasionally roam near the tree line, their cautious eyes observing from a distance. History whispers here too: Lander’s roots as a frontier town echo in the preserved stone buildings downtown.

The Brandis Ice Climbing Festival is more than a contest of strength against ice—it’s an invitation to interact with a natural force that shapes itself daily, in snow and light, presenting an evolving challenge for every climber willing to ascend into its frozen labyrinth.