Welcome to the wonderful world of frozen water! At Kaf Adventures, we love to ice climb! In fact, ice climbing has been a part of mountaineering and exploration for decades. Explorers developed techniques for traveling safely over glaciated terrain to reach the tops of mountains they saw from far below. As they set their sights on steeper and steeper objectives, new techniques and tools needed to be created; thus the art of ice climbing was born. Whether pictures in magazines inspire you, friends told you about ice climbing, or you just thought it might be something fun to try, come experience the thrill of climbing, one of nature's most dynamic mediums.
If this is your first foray into ice climbing, we will teach you all of the skills and techniques necessary to get started. For those with more experience, we'll have a fun adventures and add to your toolbox of tips. Either way, our winter programs are booked on a custom basis to meet you where you are and feel accomplished after a day on the ice.
As much as we love ice, conditions in Washington can be inconsistent and hard to predict. If you'd like to be notified when conditions are looking strong for ice climbing or others are looking to create a group, put in your email address below.
Ice is tricky in our wet climate. If you are interested in Washington or Oregon winter ice climbing, call us to register. From there, we'll coordinate our schedule with the weather and go when the ice is nice! Expect an approach hike and a single-day objective.
Let us know your goals! Because this course is booked on a custom basis, any skill level can be accommodated and an appropriate objective will be selected for the group.
Knowledge of basic climbing knots and ability to top rope belay is recommended.
Any additional climbing experience will enhance your ability to learn, but is not required.
Previous experience spending long days in the cold is a plus.
Ability to hike 2 miles and ascend 1000' with a 30 pound pack.
Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email full of important information - make sure to read it thoroughly!
3-5 days before your course you will receive an email from your guide containing even more details, including the exact meetup location and time.
Leading up to your course, make sure to eat healthy, drink extra water, and get plenty of sleep.
Please arrive on time and ready to go at your pre-arranged meeting location. To get the most of our day, we'd like to begin right at the designated start time.
All along the way, our office team is available via email or phone to answer any questions you may have.
This course will leave you with knowledge and practical application of:
Belay techniques.
Ice tool and crampon techniques.
Ice climbing movement.
PLUS:
A fun experience you’ll remember forever!
A sense of accomplishment in achieving your goals for the trip.
Confidence in your newfound skills and where to take them next.
Tips and tricks to add to your toolbox from our professional and knowledgeable guides.
Head/face protection : warm hat, sun hat *baseball cap is fine, neck gaiter *buff or balaclava, sunglasses with good side coverage
25-40L day pack
Full shank (4 season) mountaineering boots with well fitting crampons
Water bottles with at least 2L capacity
Climbing helmet
Insulating layer : puffy jacket/belay parka and fleece or puffy pants
Waterproof layers: hooded jacket and pants, gaiters highly recommended
Climbing harness
Personal kit : sunscreen (SPF 40 or higher), lip balm, headlamp and extra batteries, toiletries (please bring a plastic baggie for waste), personal medications and first aid, personal medications and first aid
Warm baselayers : non-cotton, moisture-wicking
2 pairs of gloves : insulating gloves, waterproof gloves
OTHER / OPTIONAL GEAR
Pre-made lunch items, easy to eat with gloves on
Handy pocket items; gel, chews, bars, etc.
Whistle
Area maps and compass
Heavy duty plastic trash bags (for water-proofing)
Camera
Watch
Half foam pad to stand/sit in snow
Bandana
Car Equipment (items to keep in your car) *All of these items are optional but recommended when traveling in the mountains in winter.
