Ice Climbing
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In the winter, people travel from
all over North America to Waterton Lakes
National Park for its unique ice climbing
experiences. Frozen waterfalls and
snow-covered rock faces range in difficulty,
providing ice-climbers of all skill levels
something to look forward to! |
Ice Climbing Information
Generally in ice climbing, all climbs are rated on the
following scale:
- WI 1 - Easy walk. The only equipment you'll need is
crampons.
- WI 2 - A steep walk. Tools will help.
- WI 3 - Some sections of steep ice. You may
encounter some vertical ice, but generally only a
few feet at a time. You'll need crampons and two
hand tools.
- WI 4 - Continuous sections of steep ice, with rests
only on stances in between. You'll need a rope.
- WI 5 - Vertical ice with very few rest stances. To
place protection, you'll usually have to hang off
tools or the rope.
- WI 6 - Overhanging ice, or rotten vertical ice with
only sparse protection.
Things to Do Before You Ice Climb
- Ice Climbing is a potentially hazardous
activity. The experts agree training is
essential. before trying to tackle a real ice
climb, contact climbing clubs local to your area
so you can learn the basic precautions, skills,
and techniques necessary for this exciting
activity.
- Check with park staff on best locations, weather
and avalanche conditions. A Park Use Permit is
required for all overnight use and is available at
the Warden Office. Please see Hazardous
activity registration.
- Park staff and locals can also be valuable
resources in determining where the best ice
climbing locations are.
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