The general consensus is that ice leaders should stay well below their grade and increase this limit slowly over time. The reason for this is safety. As we’ve heard over the years, taking a leader fall on ice is unacceptable. Leading well means staying in control. There are otherwise too many sticky bits and pointy things to ruin your day. But we’re here to help by offering 3 Day Learn to Lead Ice Climbing Clinic to be run by Redline Guide Glenn Van Neil. To begin, let’s review the description of this offering:
Who is this for? This class is for the ice climber who is ready to take it to the next level and learn skills and techniques necessary to lead on ice. Efficient movement, gear selection, gear placement, and climber safety will all be discussed and practiced as we spend two days getting ready for a potential first lead on ice.
- Day one… will consist of progressively harder top-roping so we can refine our movement on ice so as to identify and recognize our limits in the vertical realm. In other words, define our baseline.
- Day two… we will identify areas needing improvement and conduct practice ‘mock leads’ focusing on proper protection, placements, and strategies while climbing as well as discussing and practicing ice anchor construction. We will zero in on the when, where and how to placing ice protection as well as what to do if we get in over our heads.
- Day three… we will rehearse again with a morning mock leads and we plan to finish the day with a ‘real’ lead — if student is well prepared and ready for it. All of this take place in a single pitch environment.
Here are the Details
- When: February 13th, 14th, and 15th 2027 (Sat-Mon).
- Where: Our Basecamp then TBD.
- Cost: $575 per student.
- Class limit: Three (3) students (per guide).
- Includes: Group gear like ropes, anchors, etc.
- Excludes: Personal gear (see below).
Gear Requirements
All students must have mountaineering/ice climbing boots, ice climbing crampons, ice tools, climbing Helmet, and a climbing harness. This is in addition to clothing layers, belay jacket, gloves, etc. Rentals are available for all personal gear.
Student Requirements
Before signing up for the special class, please note the following requirements:
- Student have at least one season of ice climbing (following leads and/or top-roping).
- Student must be comfortable climbing on top-rope and/or following on WI-3 to WI-4 grades.
- Student must have basic knowledge of knots, hitches, and rope management techniques.
Ready for this? Book now to reserve your spot. On the booking form choose the date range listed above and select “OTHER: Unlisted Activity (Var.)” on the form’s the Activity Menu. You can also mention “Ice Lead Clinic” in the form’s comments box.