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Step 1
Locate an ice-climbing competition, which are found in mountainous countries. As the Union Internationale des Association d' Aplinisme was founded in Chamonix, France, it stands to reason that many of the actual competitions will take place in Europe or otherwise abroad from the United States. There are however, some competitions to be found in the United States. To see an ice-climbing competition, you must be already located or willing to visit a mountainous area. Europe, with much of the world's finest alpine sporting venues, will provide the majority of viewing opportunities.
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Step 2
Schedule a trip during the winter months. Constantly checking on the conditions in the chosen area will not only provide a window for proper and safe travel, but it will also ensure that the conditions are adequate for the competitions themselves. Travel within the United States would seem to be the easiest for those already living there, and therefore the decision simply comes down the competition calendar. If you are interested in U.S. competitions, you should look forward to the Ouray Ice Festival. The Ouray Ice Festival, located in Ouray, Colorado, provides more than just competition; it also is a place for enthusiasts and businesses to meet. The event provides gear auctions, films and several presentations. Children can also begin to hone their skills by using the newly added Kid's Climbing Wall.
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Step 3
See competitions in a region of a country. Many competitions are broken into regional European groups, which would give you the opportunity to schedule your trips within a very specific geographical area or a broad multi-country odyssey. For instance, competitions in 2006 took place in Italy, with 7 competitions, Slovenia, Croatia, Bratislava, France, Austria, Switzerland and Norway. With a multitude of locations to see ice-climbing competitions, it would be easy for those living or vacationing in Europe to visit several competitions or to witness a handful of the best.
