When people think of Utah in the context of outdoor recreation, the first thing that pops into their mind are its great hiking spots, premier rock climbing locations and the jaw-dropping sandstone formations. However, with Utah’s temperatures gradually dipping below freezing, the spectacular Wasatch Mountains and the surrounding canyons yield a wide variety of magnificent ice climbing routes ideal for beginners and expert ice climbers alike. Some of the best areas include Provo and Maple Canyons as well as Joe’s Valley, the hidden gem far away from crowds. Let an expert guide show you the ropes of ice climbing or help you sharpen your already existing skills on Utah’s quality ice and walk away a more confident and competent ice climber. Find out more about the best climbing in Utah from Cody Bradford, AMGA Certified Rock Guide and 57hours Ambassador.
Feel a rush of euphoria upon completing your climbs on solid ice
From beginner-friendly to advanced routes—this area has it all
Soak up the dramatic views of canyons while honing your ice climbing skills
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in the Wasatch Mountains area, UT, please refer to the Utah Travel Guidance Government and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
For the Intro to Ice Climbing, if you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Ice climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up ice formations using brute strength.
Intermediate and Advanced courses require previous experience on ice and knowledge of fundamental and more advanced techniques that you can upgrade with the help of a guide.
To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.
The Wasatch Mountains area has plenty of options for beginner ice climbers. Whether you’ve never ice climbed before or are transitioning from the rocks to ice structures, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the ice, and most importantly, have fun!
For intermediate to advanced ice climbers, the Wasatch Mountains area has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while ice climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service, except for the boots. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
Here’s a list of the equipment you should:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
Ice climbing days in the Wasatch Mountains area can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has ice climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to the Wasatch Mountains, most people fly into Salt Lake City International Airport 45 minutes to 3 hours away from various ice climbing locations around the Wasatch Mountains. From there, you can rent a car, get a taxi or take a train or trams.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
