The Canadian Rockies, home of the best ice climbing in Canada…
Famous for their well preserved wilderness and natural beauty, the Canadian Rockies near Banff, Yoho and Jasper National parks offers the highest concentration and variety of single and multi pitch ice climbs in Canada. The walls surrounding the mountain communities of Canmore, Banff, Lake Lousie and Jasper boast a life time of quality ice climbs for you to discover.
Summit Mountain Guides offers day and multi-day guided ice climbing programs in the Canadian Rockies from Mid November through April. Whether you are an individual with specific goals, interested in single or multi pitch ice climbs of various difficulties, we have a program for you.
Some of the ice climbing crags and routes we often visit here include: Haffner creek, Johnson Canyon, Grotto Canyon, King creek, Professor falls, Bourgeau falls, Nemesis, Louise falls, Carlsberg & Guinness gully, Murchisson falls, Kitty Hauk, Ice nine, Polar Circus, Weeping wall, Shades of Beauty and many more.
Day ice climbing itineraries are somewhat flexible. A typical guided ice climbing day will start at 7:30 AM at a climbing site. Some of the longer routes may require an early start to maximize a successful and safe ascent. Depending on group needs and particular climbs, we will generally be done before 5.00 PM.
Beginner to Advanced programs available. Prior ice climbing experience is an asset. The more experience you have, the more you will benefit from this program. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background, we will then find the best possible venue for you.
All ice climbing routes in this section are located in the Canadian Rockies. Here are a few towns where we often base from; Cranbrook, Invermere, Golden, Lake Louise, Banff, Jasper & Canmore. Suitable accommodation can be found in all these locations.
Depending on where the participants are coming from, it may be possible to carpool to the climb location. This is a great way to conserve energy and minimize transportation costs.
The instructors will be meeting with participants the evening before the climbing day(s) for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistics for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.
The Rocky Mountain weather is generally cold and dry. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -25C to –10C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise to zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.
Where can I rent or buy Ice Climbing equipment?
Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of Ice Climbing equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson, Golden, Lake Louise, Banff & Canmore that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Golden:
Lake Louise:
Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com
Banff:
Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com
Canmore:
Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.vpo.ca