Best ice climbing in North America; Most reliable ice conditions; Few crowds; Many climbs with short approaches; Many moderate multi-pitch classics; Excellent beginner/practice climbs; Skiing in Banff / Lake Louise.
Having lived and ice climbed extensively in Europe, Colorado and Canada, we believe the Canadian Rockies are by far THE BEST as far as ice climbing goes: Dramatic vertical relief and cooold winters make for reliably "phat" conditions from November through April.
This is only one reason why the town of Canmore has earned itself a reputation as the "world capital of ice climbing". The other reason might be the excellent infrastructure appreciated by most of us after a hard day on the ice: Good value accommodation, charming restaurants and coffee shops, pubs with live music and the Banff hot springs!
From Canmore or Banff the approaches are quick. A short drive and a walk anywhere from ten to sixty minutes opens up a wealth of terrain - from easy top ropes for beginners to multi pitch extreme classics!
Depending on our client's preferences, we often base ourselves for a night or two in Lake Louise, about 45 minutes drive from Canmore in the heart of Banff National Park, which gives even quicker access to the climbs along the Icefield Parkway or to the wealth of routes in Yoho National Park.
Intro Course:
Knots, principles of waterfall ice climbing safety and site management, ice bouldering, belays, anchors, climbing techniques, lots of toproping, TR and pre-potected lead climbing, ice & avalanche hazard evaluation, multi-pitch as a follower.
Advanced Course:
Review of beginner's course contents,ice bouldering, focus on improving climbing technique, difficult toproping, prepotected lead climbing, ice & avalanche hazard evaluation, coaching on single and multi-pitch climbs as a leader of a party.
Private Guiding - or as a course:
A combination of any of the above contents, advancing at a rate in accordance with your personal skill level and preferences.
Can I do it?
All our courses are aimed at equipping you with all the skills necessary to eventually lead ice climbs on your own. Come prepared to walk to the climbs-anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours. Especially later in the season, we might need snow shoes or skis to approach some of the ice climbs.
Meeting Point:
Banff or Canmore, Alberta on the evening before the official start of the course. We gladly assist you in arranging lodging and airport transfers from and to Calgary International (1.25 hrs).
Climate, Weather, Temperatures:
Ice climbing requires cold weather. Be prepared and equipped for temps down to -20 C or -7F.
Notes:
Services Included in the Total Price:
All rates include guiding/instruction by an UIAGM and/or ACMG certified mountain guide and equipment use (ice tools, harnesses, ice screws, helmets, ropes). We will gladly quote you all-inclusive prices with lodging and air port pick up / drop off in Calgary or we can assist you in making reservations for the lodging and transport option of your choice.
Not Included in the Total Price Are:
Air fares, lodging, food, lunches, drinks, rental fees for boots.
Also see tour packages in:
Rock climbing and mountaineering outfitters
Canada
Alberta
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