Experience ice climbing in the Adirondacks

Get vertical – on ice. Whether you're looking for a challenging 1,000 foot climb up a sheer ice wall or a two-hour recreational lesson with a licensed Adirondack guide, Lake Placid's ice climbing options cater to experts, beginners, and everyone in between.

When the conditions are right, "pick" from towering ice-filled chimneys, crevices, and cliffs throughout the region. Varying from easy roadside access to remote climbs requiring a trek with snowshoes or skis before even getting started, it's the perfect way to get your fill of more than one of your favorite winter outdoor activities.

Experienced rock climbers who frequent the Adirondack Mountains in warmer seasons will find ice climbing can provide the same thrills and adventure of a summer's climb – with an icy twist, of course.

Ice climbing guidelines and guide services

Like any other winter sport, planning, education and proper equipment are key to having a fun and rewarding climb. Necessary ice climbing gear ranges from mountaineering boots with crampons, glacier glasses or ski goggles and gloves to ice axes, screws, hammers, and an ice tool leash to carry it all, to ensure your own safety as well as that of those accompanying you.

Make sure to take additional safety precautions including assessing weather conditions, mapping, and packing enough food and liquids. Should you need additional assistance, local Adirondack guides can clue you in on ice climbing best practices and point you in the right direction for your next adventure.

For some, the ice is simply the frosting on the cake of an Adirondack winter – literally. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, grab your gear and head outside... the ice awaits. 

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

 

Tag along
Dawn Patrol
Bobby and his climbing partner hit the ice walls before dawn for a chance to fuel that passion before sitting down with their coffee and a fresh pastry at their day jobs.

Results for "Ice Climbing Routes and Guides"

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Cascade Pass Ice Climbing
Route 73, Lake Placid
(800) 447-5224

The slopes above the scenic Cascade Lakes drip with ice that forms early and remains late. Many routes can be top-roped and the approaches from Route 73 are easy. To the right of Pitchoff Chimney Cliff are two very popular walls.

  
Pitchoff - North Face
Old Mountain Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

This quiet, remote, and exposed area provides some of the best and most scenic moderate ice climbing in the Adirondacks. This area has a relatively long season, which can be attributed to its northern exposure.

  
Wilmington Peak Slides
Bonnieview Road, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

This approach is a very unique one, as it uses a slide track for the major portion of the ascent over 2130'.

  
Gothics - North Face
Rt 73, Keene Valley
(518) 523-2445

A stunning mountain in the heart of the High Peaks offers an infamous and looming slab of granite and ice begging to be explored. 

  
Multiplication Gully
Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 946-2255

This hidden gem offers crevice climbing with great views of Moss Cliff framed by rock walls, this is one of the most popular routes in the entire Northeast. Multiplication Gully trailhead: This climb is hidden in a crevice along Route 86 near...

  
Chapel Pond
Route 73, Keene
(518) 523-2445

If you've drive to Lake Placid from the Northway, you've seen Chapel Pond's beautiful waters and towering cliffs! Stop, take in the scenery, and discover the beauty for more than a fleeting moment out a car window.

  
High Peaks Mountain Guides - Ice Climbing
2739 Main Street, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3764
  
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Cloudsplitter Mountain Guides
1900 Route 73, Keene Valley
(518) 576-9096