Ice climbing is dangerous. This danger means that it is challenging to safely make the initial steps while remaining relatively safe. If you are starting to climb in winter then it will be a big advantage to have some rock climbing experience behind you. Though they are very different, rock climbing and ice climbing are, in some ways, ironically similar. They use the same rope techniques, fitness, and determination negotiating many of the same inherent dangers.
If you understand the basic rope techniques associated with rock climbing and understand how to keep yourself safe then you will progress far more easily, and safely, on ice.
Ice Climbing on a mountain has one goal: to reach the next summit, or the top. There are many mountains, all with different heights and obstacles and so it is easy to accommodate anyone’s level of experience, beginner to expert. Many start out learning how to mountain climb by essentially hiking up hill. It is a good place to start because it is far less intimidating to ease your way into the sport.
Ice climbing experiences are unpredictable. Because of this, it not only physically stimulates you, but mentally as well. Environment can range from freezing to sweltering hot (even in the same day!) as altitude, weather and sub angles change. These changes challenge your mental ability to plan in advance, improve, problem solve, and navigate, while physically challenging your physical conditioning and climbing skills.
You must be well prepared in regards to the experience you have and the equipment you bring along. To start, you can get by with basic hiking equipment such as rations, tents and sleeping bags. As difficulty increases, however, so does the amount of stuff you need. This is where the ropes and other equipment and gear used for climbing and survival become necessary.
If you think ice climbing may be something that you are interested in, there are a few things to do to start pursuing the sport. First and foremost, note that climbing, regardless of level, requires a certain amount of time, money, and fitness. If you can accommodate that, the next to do is figure out which type of mountain climbing is best for you.
Some things to consider, as you are trying to decide the best type of climbing for you, are if you enjoy hiking or climbing more, your preferred type of weather to be active in, and how much work you want to put into the sport. If you’re unsure, try a few beginners’ trails in different areas and decide what you like about each and dislike.
It may be a good idea to hire a mountain guide if you are a beginner. Mountain guides are professionals who can help you up a mountain safely, as they are generally adept climbers and/or skiers, who know the terrain. They can fill you with useful advice and help you learn skills. This goes for those wanting to take on a highly advanced mountain, or a self taught mountaineer, as mountain guides, especially certified ones have usually done numerous trainings and has seemingly countless hours of personal experience for you to learn from.
