Ice
Climbing
The Canadian Rockies are known worldwide for their reliable ice climbing, long seasons, and wide range of routes. From approachable single-pitch climbs to long, multi-pitch lines in quiet valleys, the area offers opportunities for both progression and adventure. Ice conditions are shaped by temperature, recent weather and sun exposure. Between Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper there is a lifetime supply of winter climbing!
Ice climbing here rewards patience and good technique rather than brute strength. Routes can change significantly over the season, and understanding conditions is a key part of safe and enjoyable climbing. Many climbers come to the Rockies to build solid fundamentals, progress to steeper terrain, or gain confidence leading on ice.
Guided ice climbing can be focused on learning efficient movement and tool placement, refining lead skills, or climbing classic multi-pitch routes.
Intro to Ice Climbing
Crag-based ice climbing offers an ideal introduction to frozen waterfalls or a focused day to sharpen your skills. We’ll climb accessible, single pitch ice routes that allow you to concentrate on footwork, tool placement, and efficient movement without committing to long multi-pitch objectives.
SKILL LEVEL
Beginners to Advanced
RATIO
1:1 to 6:1
PRICING
Starting from:
1:1 : $650 + GST per person
1:6: $225 + GST per person
Multipitch Ice Climbing
Moderate multipitch ice routes combine engaging climbing with thoughtful pacing and strategy. These trips are ideal for climbers ready to move beyond single pitch laps and experience longer ice lines that wind through gullies and amphitheaters. You’ll develop skills in anchor building, stance management, and efficient transitions while climbing beautiful, classic ice. Route selection focuses on quality and conditions, ensuring a challenging but achievable day.
SKILL LEVEL
Beginners to Advanced
RATIO
1:1 to 2:1
PRICING
Starting from:
1:1 : $750 + GST per person
1:2: $500 + GST per person
Advanced Ice Climbing
Advanced multipitch ice climbing targets long, steep, and committing routes where conditions and timing matter as much as technical ability. These are the truly world-class lines the Canadian Rockies has to offer. These days require efficient systems, confident movement, and the ability to stay composed in sustained terrain. We choose objectives carefully based on conditions and experience, aiming for high-quality lines that showcase the best of Rockies ice. A rewarding challenge for experienced ice climbers looking to push further.
SKILL LEVEL
Intermediate to Advanced
RATIO
1:1 to 2:1
PRICING
Starting at:
1:1 $950 + GST per person
1:2 $600 + GST per person
Select routes
Please find below a selection of our commonly guided areas and multi-pitch routes. If you have a specific route in mind, be sure to mention it on the contact form!
Grassi Falls - Canmore
A classic top-roping, beginner to intermediate venue. With a wide selection of ice routes and a great multi-pitch practice, this is a common first day out.
GRADE
WI 3-4
LENGTH
30m
APPROACH
easy ±20min
Bear Spirit - Banff
A beautiful crag nestled in the Banff backcountry, Bear Spirit crag delivers! After a nice walk along the creek, we follow a narrow canyon to a crag of steep pillars and classic mixed lines.
GRADE
WI 3-4 & mixed
LENGTH
30m
APPROACH
moderate ±1h
King Creek Canyon - Canmore
Deep in Kananaskis country, King Creek is many climber's first outing in the Rockies. After a beautiful canyon hike, we arrive below multiple ice flows and mixed climbs.
GRADE
WI 3-4 & mixed
LENGTH
30m
APPROACH
easy, ±30 min
