Ice Climbing

Not long ago the general perception was that Adirondack winters were to be endured, not enjoyed, but due to advances in gear and clothing, ice climbing is surging in popularity. Unlike snow conditions that tend to fluctuate from year to year, Adirondack ice reliably begins to take shape in late November and stays true to form throughout the month of March.

We include all technical gear including double plastic boots. Clients meet at our lodge at 8:30 a.m. and lunches are provided for all non-group sessions. We recommend dressing in layers including wool or synthetics, shelled gloves, wool mitts and socks, a wool hat and some form of an outer shell layer. We also recommend that people bring a large daypack, water bottle/thermos, ski goggles and camera if desired. Winter days can be cold so please prepare accordingly!

As with our Rock Climbing program ice guiding/instruction will be offered mostly through Private Guiding but for those that prefer a less expensive, more social alternative we will continue to offer a 2 Day Beginning Ice course a couple of times each winter.

• Beginning Ice – 2 Day course
• Private Guiding - Rates
• Backcountry Adventures – Ice
• Group Instruction - Rates

BEGINNING ICE - 2 DAY

PRIVATE GUIDING

Private Guiding is the program through which most of our clients hire a guide. It’s offered year round, covers any discipline we teach (rock, ice, hiking, etc.) and includes instruction as well as guiding. This means pure beginners through experienced pros can register through and apply the Private Guiding rates. Popular requests include:

• Beginning climbers wishing to learn proper fundamentals and safety techniques
• Novice – advanced climbers wishing simply to become better, more efficient climbers or perfect skills such as learning to lead, aid climb, self-rescue etc.
• Experienced climbers seeking to be guided on backcountry routes as well as local classics
• Hikers seeking companionship or guidance up trailess 4000 footers
   

If desired, two or more people can share a private lesson, thus reducing cost. In these situations the client provides the additional people. If more than 3 people wish to hire a guide for climbing/hiking etc. then this falls under our Group rates (see Group Instruction below). When registering, please inform us as to your goals and experience. Usually registration by phone works best (we accept calls from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m)GIFT CERTIFICATES as well as PARENT/CHILD rates (17 and under, see below) are available.
 

* Extra children will be charged $50/day.

 

BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURES - ICE

The Adirondack wilderness affords innumerable adventure opportunities. Some of the very best are suggested below. These winter trips are offered at Private Guiding  rates with a surcharge per trip of $75. We recommend these outings for those individuals that seek a quality climbing experience in a more remote, backcountry setting.

PHAROAH MOUNTAIN
This four pitch, grade three ice climb has seen very few ascents to date. With a five mile ski/snowshoe approach, this one or two day adventure is one of the most sought after in the Adirondacks!

TRAP DYKE
Although technically easy, this Adirondack classic demands care and attention. Considered by many to be the most spectacularly situated Adirondack climb, this ascent can easily be accomplished in a day.

AVALANCHE LAKE
This spectacular ice climbing area has become the center of new route activity in the Adirondacks as of late. While many of the newer lines are mixed and hard, the area also sports some of the finest pure ice routes (at all levels) in the state. A ski or snowshoe approach and a thirst for adventure are all that's required to enjoy this idyllic setting. Highly Recommended!

GOTHICS - NORTH FACE
The Adirondack winter mountaineering classic! A 1000 foot wall plastered with snow and thin ice. Exciting, exposed and by adding a summit bivouac, becomes a great training climb for individuals considering larger mountaineering ascents. This trip can be accomplished in a long day or spread out into a multi-day adventure.


 

GROUP INSTRUCTION - ICE

The Adirondacks have long been considered the premiere eastern region for introducing groups to the joys and rewards of outdoor pursuits. Today, more than ever, these wilderness experiences are sorely needed. Recently, institutional programs have come under close scrutiny due to their increased environmental impact on the resources utilized. While it is true that one large group will impact the resource more so than several smaller ones, responsibly run groups of reasonable size that choose environmentally stable teaching sites provide benefits that far outweigh the costs. With this in mind we will continue to offer group instruction to the general public that emphasizes fun, proper fundamentals and responsible, courteous site usage.

Our program is ideal for school groups, scouts, summer camps or simply a group of friends looking to climb in a more social, less costly manner. Our format is flexible. Sessions range from standard top-roping sessions to independently designed courses tailored to a specific group's needs. Because we feel it is imperative that kids get introduced to the sport in a conservative, responsible manner, we encourage schools, camps and scout organizations to seek professional instruction.

From roadside crags to remote mountaintops, the Adirondacks have it all. If interested, please give us a call...

GROUP INSTRUCTION RATES*

OFFERED: YEAR ROUND
PRICES: PER PERSON PER DAY
 

* Includes all gear as well as rock shoes/ice boots.
   Lunch is not included in group activities.