Ice Climbing Tours, Courses and Adventures

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Intro to Ice Climbing

This course is designed for the total beginner or indoor climber yearning to try outdoor ice climbing. Our program is located less than an hour from Bracebridge on one of the Muskoka’s best climbing areas. You will learn to tie into the rope, belay other climbers, and various climbing techniques. Join us for a fun and exciting day outdoors, and see why this sport is addictive.

Locations

We use a few great locations in the Muskoka area and because we are locally located we know which areas offer the best conditions, plus in most cases we are ready to go well before you arrive for your day of climbing. Here are some short Descriptions of the main climbing areas we use.

Kushog Lake

Kushog lake offers 3 great climbs of varying difficulty. It is our best area to have you learn your techniques on easier grade ice so you are ready for each more difficult challenge. Your first climb of the day is Blue Boy (WI2) then we make our way to Caramel Coating(WI2+) and usually finish the day with the 30m Blue Pillar (WI3+). Each ice fall here can be climbed many different ways and is sure to offer you a very full day and a great appetite for dinner at the Firehouse restaurant located at the entrance to the area.

Ice Climb Muskoka from Peter deMos on Vimeo

Intinerary

• 9:00 AM Meet your guide at the designated climb site
• 9:15 AM Climbers are set up with helmets, boots and harnesses
• 9:30 AM Hike to Climbs
• 9:45 AM Arrive at first climb and start instruction on equipment and techniques
• 10:00 AM Start climbing
• 1:00 PM Break for lunch. Some may continue climbing
• 3:30 Pack up
• 4:00 Arrive at Parking. Enjoy Apres Climb at Firehouse Restaurant

FAQ's

I have never climbed before. Can I take this course?
Introduction to ice climbing is a course designed for complete beginners. It is also ideal for those who have done indoor climbing and would like to try it outdoor on frozen waterfalls for the first time. Some of our clients come out every year even if they have climbed before because they like to know that our top-notch instructors set the routes they are climbing and we provide all the gear.

How difficult are the climbs?
Ice climbing is rated on a WI scale, (Water Ice). It starts at WI 1 (Ice Walking) and progresses all the way to the top end of the scale at WI 7+ (Professional). We generally start on Mellow WI 2 and work our way up to WI 4-.

I am scared of heights. Can I do this course?
Some people have a natural fear of heights and they have found the course thrilling because of that exciting fear. You probably know yourself well and if ice climbing intrigues you, we welcome you.

I am a big guy. Will the ropes hold me?
The ropes are designed so that they can hold a truck. Unless you are as heavy as a truck, there should not be a problem.

What if I don't have a strong upper body?
Ice climbing is a combination of using your feet as well as your arms. Our climbs are rated from easy to medium so there are different levels for beginners to try. Gaining proper technique will allow you to improve without having a super strong upper body.

How high are the frozen Icefalls?
The frozen Icefalls range from 70 feet to 90 feet.

Where will I be climbing? How do I get there?
You can call or visit our store anytime before your climb to find out where you will need to go. Our phone number is 705 646 0492, and we are located at 271 Ecclestone Drive, in Bracebridge, Ontario. Please do not try to visit the store on the day of your climb, as we will not be open until later in the morning.

What equipment is provided?
All Technical gear is provided. Including Climbing ( Ice Axes, Ice boots, Crampons, Harnesses, Helmets, Belay Devices, ropes etc).

What are we required to bring?
We recommend layered clothing that is weatherproof and breathable. Include warm mitts as well as a pair of thinner gloves for climbing, proper headwear which will fit underneath helmets and 2 pairs of socks. We also recommend snow gaiters and sunglasses on sunny days. Here is a complete list for winter travel. All clothing and equipment you may need is available at our store at a 10% discount to clients. If you would like to do some shopping please come early or order online to allow enough time before we need to leave.

How many people are in the course?
In order to ensure clients get as much instruction time as possible we maintain a Guide to Client ratio of a Maximum 1 Guide to 6 clients.

How long does the course last?
This course starts at 10 AM and returns at 4PM.

What if I arrive Late?
If you arrive late, please contact your guide with the phone number provided and arrangements can be made to assist you in joining the group. Due to the nature of this activity if you are more than an hour late the group cannot wait for your arrival and you will miss out on your adventure.

What should I do if I am lost?
Prevention is the best advice. Bring a copy of our map along with an Ontario road map or map of the area to make sure that you know exactly where you are going. You will be provided with our mobile phone # with your map if you need detailed directions.

Are there washrooms?
Please plan for no washroom facilities available. You may want to make a pit-stop before you arrive. Your Guide will carry some TP for any call of nature.

Should I bring a lunch?
For this trip we recommend that you bring a Medium sized pack with a lunch and energy snacks and at least 2L of water. We recommend a thermos of hot liquids to help keep warm.

Where can we stay and where do we eat?
There are many good places to dine around Bracebridge. There is also decent accommodation close to our store. Accomodations http://www.bracebridge.com/accommodation.html Dining http://www.bracebridge.com/dining_restaurants.html

What if I get hurt or have an injury?
While fairly uncommon during these activities our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a medical kit at all times. In the event of an injury you are our first priority. Steps will be taken to ensure you are safely cared for and transported should you need further attention.

Can I get a copy of the photos the instructor took?
All photos taken during the course will be available on our facebook group.

Can I organize my own group?
Yes! We gladly accept personal and corporate groups and offer discounts for group bookings. We can offer any date that works with your schedule. Email or call us for details.

Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, we provide gift certificates for all occasions. We also have a special gift certificate for our ice courses