Ice climbing started out as a part of mountaineering, but in the 1970s, it evolved and become its own discipline. The founders were mountaineers who preferred climbing ice falls—frozen waterfalls, glaciers, etc. and decided to forgo rocky areas altogether. Since then, ice climbing has made its way to ski areas and become a popular non-ski activity. Although it may sound daunting, ice climbing is quite accessible to the wider public! As part of our spotlight on Ski Activities, we’re having a closer look!
What is ice climbing?
Ice climbing is an extreme winter sport. Climbers ascend ice falls by driving axes into the ice and stepping up with their crampons. They are suspended by a rope and a belaying system. The thrill of climbing up the ice is like no other—it’ll certainly satisfy that craving for adventure!
Though ice climbing is about the journey and not the destination, some climbs can lead you to summits with breath taking views. Ready to set off? Here’s what you need to know before fastening your crampons.
Prerequisites for ice climbing
While mountaineering or climbing experience is useful, ice climbing is accessible to beginners, including children and non-athletes. It is far less technical than mountaineering. Strategy and precision are key. A good level of physical fitness is helpful, of course, but brute force isn’t everything.
Ice climbers are secured with a rope, so slipping or falling present no danger. Although, you may need to overcome your fear of heights! If you’re ready to face your fears, let’s see what a typical session might be like.
A typical ice climbing session
For those who just want to test the waters, lessons are the most practical option. More seasoned climbers can explore one of the many ice climbing sites near their ski resort. Have a few days on your hands? Why not try a course? Here are the ice climbing experiences on offer:
Ice climbing lessons with a guide
If you’re new to ice climbing, opt for a session supervised by a guide. Proper instruction will help you develop the right technique and learn how to adapt in inclement weather conditions. Lessons often include equipment rental, which is one less thing for you to worry about! The average cost of a day-long group session is 140 euros per person.
It may take a bit of hiking to get to the climbing site. So, plan accordingly!
Ice climbing courses
If you’re getting back into climbing after a hiatus, courses are a great refresher. Not only will intensive instruction help you improve, it’s also a fun way to meet new people who share your interests. Guides choose routes with learning curves to help you hone your skills. Groups are usually limited to six to ensure participants’ safety. The average cost of a 3-day course is around 900 euros per person.
Ice climbing on your own
If you’re an experienced ice climber, you could strike out on your own. You’ll need your own equipment, however, and an experienced belayer with you. Maps of maintained climbing sites and routes are available in ski areas and access is very affordable. Sites maintained by volunteers are free or donation-based for climbers.
No matter what kind of session you’re planning, it’s important to be properly equipped. Let’s take a look at what you need to be prepared.
Equipment and clothing for ice climbing
Keep in mind that ice climbing is an extreme winter sport practiced at cold temperatures and high altitudes. It’s essential to stay warm and dry and to be outfitted with the right equipment, as you’ll be scaling sheer surfaces. Let’s take a quick look at an ice climber’s kit.
Ice axes
An ice axe looks a bit like a giant ice pick with a hammer-like head and an adze at the top. Adzes, cutting tools that run perpendicular to the handle, are useful for cutting steps. Opt for durable material like steel, a comfortable grip, and a lightweight design. Average cost: 60-175 euros.
Brands to explore: Petzl, Grivel, Black Diamond
Crampons
Crampons are metal frames with spikes that attach to mountaineering boots to increase traction and grip. Most adjust without tools, so they fit snugly onto your boots. There are several different binding systems for crampons. Choose the one that is most intuitive for you! Average cost: 100-250 euros.
Note: Purchase crampons designed especially for ice climbing if you can.
Brands to explore: Petzl, Grivel, Black Diamond
Belaying system
A belaying system includes all the components you need to be safely suspended from a rope. You’ll need ice screws (to act as anchor points), draws (to connect ropes to anchor points), a belaying device, a harness, carabiners (to connect the rope to the harness), and of course the rope itself. Prices vary, depending on the quality and longevity of the product. Most are available from online retailers.
Brands to explore: Kailas, Fusion, Black Diamond, Petzl
Clothing
If you’ve packed your ski wear, you should have all the clothing you need to go ice climbing. A waterproof top layer is especially critical—you’ll be spending most of your time up against ice, after all. Swap your ski boots for mountaineering boots, add a helmet, and you’ll be good to go.
Here’s a quick recap of the clothing you’ll need:
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A base layer: thermal pants or leggings and a shirt
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A mid-layer: an insulation jumper and softshell trousers
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A top layer: a mountaineering jacket, hard-shell trousers, and waterproof shell
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Waterproof gloves
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Warm socks
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Sun cream
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A wool hat
Looking for a detailed guide to basic ski wear? Check out our guide: What to Wear Skiing.
Where to go ice climbing in France
Although Chamonix is the most prestigious, there are several great ski areas that offer ice climbing sessions. We’ve listed our favourites below!
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Chamonix’s famed Compagnie des Guides, an institution founded 200 years ago, is a legendary provider of backcountry winter activities. Sign up to a lesson or a course knowing that you’re in good hands!
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Alpe d’Huez offers private and group ice climbing sessions on the ice falls of Vaujany. The view from the top is a must see!
For those who want to venture further afield, the famous Vallons de La Grave and Vallons du Diable are just around the corner. -
Val Thorens offers ice climbing experiences to holidaymakers as young as 10 years old. Shorter half-day sessions accessible via easy footpaths make this the perfect place to reach the summit as a family.
