By and large, most of what we do focuses on private-style guiding – and we love that – but we also love the camaraderie of being out there with a great group of folks. Plus, we know it’s helpful when things are a little more affordable. So come take advantage of these great group opportunities – learn some skills to take your climbing to the next level, and have fun with an amazing crew of climbers and guides!
Steep Ice Seminar
January 20th & 21st
February 14th & 15th
Are you looking to advance your ice climbing ability towards more difficult objectives?
Want to learn techniques to help manage the pump on pillars and curtains?
Or if you simply looking to climb new, exciting and more challenging terrain (dare we say, Lake Willoughby?!) join Cathedral Mountain Guides and experience all that the vertical world has to offer! We’ll spend two days immersed in WI 4 and 5 terrain at some of the best ice climbing locations in the lower 48! Let us help you become a more confident ice climber and feel comfortable pushing yourself on steep ice this winter!
Day 1 will take place in a cragging environment (likely The Flume in Franconia Notch but the exact location will be based on current conditions). We will prioritize skills related to efficient movement on steep ice in a top-rope setting. You will try out new techniques, receive guided feedback, and work to keep the pump at bay!
On Day 2, we will head to one of the United States’ premier destinations for big, steep ice lines – Lake Willoughby, Vermont (conditions permitting). At “the Lake”, we will put into practice that which we worked on the day before. We will split into two teams and each group will attempt a multi-pitch objective that challenges them appropriately.
These two days will be led by CMG guide, Keith Sidle. Keith is well-known as one of the region’s finest steep ice climbers. On top of that, he is a brilliant instructor and an all-around great guy.
The Beta
Where: Exact location TBD for Day 1; Day 2: Lake Willoughby, Vermont. For lodging & accommodations, we recommend staying in the Littleton/Bethlehem/Franconia area.
Cost: $430/person. Price includes all rental equipment. Price does not include gratuity.
Prerequisites: Solid belaying skills and the ability to comfortably top-rope WI 3. Multi-pitch experience is not required but will help significantly on day 2.
Required Gear: Participants will be expected to come prepared with – at least – most of a personal climbing kit (boots, crampons, tools, harness, helmet, belay devices, etc.). Please let us know if you will need to borrow anything from CMG.
Group Size: We’re going to cap it at 4 climbers! On day 2, we will bring in a second guide and split the team in two groups.
The Beta
INTRO TO ICE COURSE: We’ll focus on understanding the gear used in ice climbing, safety precautions at ice crags, the basics of kicking with crampons, swinging with ice axes, and body movement when climbing ice. Your guides will share their tips for how to stay warm and cozy in the winter elements. They’ll provide movement and coaching advice that will be focused on finding your flow and feeling at home on the ice. We’ll explore what it means to feel comfortable moving with grace on the ice as non-male climbers.
Prerequisites: None at all!
What you need: Check out our winter gear list for an idea of what to bring and how to prepare for climbing in the cold!
Group Size: We’re going to cap it at 6 climbers!
STEEP ICE COURSE: Want to take your ice climbing to the next level? Kelsey Rex will cover techniques specific to climbing efficiently on steep ice and work on building confidence on challenging terrain. Come for the individualized coaching, stay for the fun vibes and community-/partnership-building.
Prerequisites: Must have ice climbed before!
What you need: Check out our winter gear list for an idea of what to bring and how to prepare for climbing in the cold!
Group Size: We’re going to cap it at 4 climbers!
