Enjoy the thrill of ice climbing in Montana. World renown for its incredible ice, Montana is a great place to learn to ice climb. If you are more experienced, challenge yourself on long, sustained pillars or mixed routes. Ice climbing is also a great spectators sport, just dress warmly.
The Montana ice climbing season is from November through March and occasionally runs into April. Come prepared to climb in cold temperatures; a belay parka is a must for Montana ice climbing. Many of the climbs are easily accessibly all winter and don't require long approaches or extreme driving to the trail head. Other climbs are more remote and are frequently accessed with the use of a snowmobile.
The following are a few of our favorite ice climbing areas:
Hyalite Canyon – South of Bozeman you'll find Hyalite Canyon, a climbing area with steep ice. It is one of the best early season ice climbing areas in the lower 48 sates and contains over 130 different routes. There are three valleys in Hyalite with the Main Fork being the most popular for ice climbers and a good place for beginners and intermediates.
Glacier National Park – In Northwestern Montana, you'll find Glacier National Park and its challenging ice climbing. With extreme weather, Glacier is a good place for experienced climbers. The climbing around Avalanche Lake and in Snyder Basin is worth the drive.
Yellowstone National Park – It is important to note that ice climbing is not permitted in Yellowstone National Park.
Cooke City – With its generally higher elevations, Cooke City is home to a long ice climbing season. Check out the Hydromonster if you enjoy skiing into a long climb.
New to the sport? Consider hiring a
guide to increase your safety and improve your technique.
Montana Alpine Guides – Serves Bozeman, Big Sky and southwest Montana.
Reach your Peak – Guiding in Hyalite Canyong.
