How to Choose an Ice Climbing Location

If climbing in normal conditions isn't a challenge anymore and you want to try something new, ice climbing may be for you. Now all you need to do is find out where these ice climbing locations are. The following will help you on your quest to take part in this challenging sport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Decide if you would like to climb ice inside or outside. There are more locations for the outdoor climb sites. However if the weather is not cooperating, or you are too far from the outdoor ice climbs, going indoors may be a nice alternative.
2. Research on the Internet. To find great outdoor climbs, Mountain Project is a great resource. On the home page click on "Destinations" and it will list by state where you can go. Some listings specify ice climbing. Back on the home page you can also type in "Ice climbing destinations" by the search field and it will pull up numerous appropriate links. Click on a link that interests you to get detailed information such as a brief geographical introduction, directions, lodging, where to eat, and other helpful tidbits.
3. Check out the Indoor Climbing website if you are interested in indoor ice climbs. Once at the home page scroll down the page past all the indoor wall climbing listings to the link to "Indoor Ice Climbing Walls." The link shows what is available along with contact information.
4. Visit the Alpine Energy website. The home page lists numerous resources available under different climbing topics. Find the ice climbing section and choose from the available links to get more information on what location you can visit to ice climb.
5. Join a climbing club. The American Alpine Club is a good option. Once you join you will get lots of information about where to climb and how to do it safely. This club can also get you in touch with others that share your love for the outdoors. Ask them to share some good ice climbing locations with you.

Tips & Warnings

• Ice climbing is an advanced type of climbing. You must have adequate training in order to have a successful and safe ice climb.