Intro to Ice Climbing

Join a group and try ice climbing!

Quick Info

Duration Typical day is 8am-4pm

Group Size 4:1 max

Season December- March

Skill Level No experience required

Difficulty You choose!

Cost $200 per person

Experience the Thrill of Ice Climbing

Step into a world of frozen adventure with our Single-Day Intro to Ice Climbing class. Designed for beginners, this immersive experience offers a perfect blend of instruction and excitement.

What to Expect:

  • Safety First: Our expert instructors will start with a comprehensive safety briefing and essential gear overview. You'll learn about proper techniques, equipment use, and safety protocols to ensure a secure and enjoyable climb.

  • Hands-On Training: With hands-on guidance, you'll master the basics of ice climbing, including using crampons, ice tools, and belaying. Our instructors will teach you how to approach and ascend ice with confidence.

  • Climbing Practice: Put your new skills to the test on a real ice fall. Whether you're scaling a beginner-friendly route or tackling more challenging terrain, you'll get personalized coaching to help you improve your technique.

  • Spectacular Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking winter landscapes while climbing. Our chosen locations offer stunning views and a unique perspective on the icy world around you.

  • Gear Provided: We supply all necessary equipment, including ice tools, crampons, helmets, and harnesses.

    By the end of the day, you'll have a solid foundation in ice climbing and the confidence to explore further. Join us for a day of excitement, challenge, and natural beauty that will leave you eager for your next climb.

Training and Essential Skills Needed for Ice Climbing

Before you begin your exciting ice climbing venture, it's important to have the right equipment and training needed for a smooth and successful experience.

While we offer varied courses depending on your experience level, some health and safety requirements can help prepare you for ice climbing.

Generally speaking, participants need to be fit enough to hike around most of the day while wearing a moderate-sized pack. If you're concerned about your fitness level, contact our team, and we can happily guide you through the process. Aside from needing to be fit and healthy, it's also essential that guests have the technical skills needed to complete their course effectively. This includes the ability to use tools in using our ice-climbing equipment.

Lastly, participants need tactical skills for ice climbing. This includes information about how to climb the route, such as where to place the provided gear, rest opportunities, and more.

While we will detail the fundamentals of ice climbing, participants must be upfront and honest about their fitness and skill levels before enrolling in a course.

Why Choose Vertex Mountain Guides?

Our experienced and friendly team at Vertex Mountain Guides is trained and supervised by Keith Moon, an IFMGA-licensed Mountain Guide.

Our dedicated team possesses exceptional knowledge and expertise and is committed to our clients and their overall satisfaction. With a deep love and passion for our craft, rest assured you're in safe and knowledgeable hands when you choose Vertex Mountain Guides.

For a more customized experience, check out our Private Ice Climbing options.

Two individuals ice climbing in a snowy forest, wearing helmets, climbing gear, and holding ropes.
Close-up of ice climber's crampons on snow with orange harness, surrounded by trees and snow splashes.
Person ice climbing on a frozen waterfall with a group watching below
Two people ice climbing in snowy terrain, wearing helmets and winter gear, handling a green climbing rope.

Booking Details

  • Guiding and instruction with an IFMGA or AMGA Certified/Trained Guide

    All ice-climbing gear (harness, helmet, boots, crampons, ice tools etc.)

    Pre climb check in and post climb follow ups

    Pre ski check in and post ski follow ups

  • CLICK HERE for a detailed list of what you are responsible for bringing for a day of ice climbing.

  • Our default timeframe is 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

  • We will meet just outside of North Conway, NH. We often run this course at Cathedral Ledge or Frankenstein Cliff.

  • CLICK HERE to view our cancelation and weather polices.

  • CLICK HERE to view answers to frequently asked questions.

Got Questions?

We’re here to help. Our FAQs or Gear Lists might have the information you’re seeking. But If you’re not finding the information you need, we’d be happy to help!