Conquer the Ice: Guided Ice Climbing Adventures in the Gunks, Catskills & Beyond

Ice Climbing Programs

Discover the excitement of ice climbing with programs designed for all skill levels, from beginners taking their first swings to experienced climbers looking to refine their technique. Our courses cover essential skills like tool placement, footwork and movement on ice, providing a strong foundation for vertical ice routes. Whether you’re looking to try ice climbing for the first time or take your skills to the next level, our expert-led programs offer an unforgettable adventure.

Join us this winter and experience the unique thrill of climbing frozen waterfalls!

Led by Professional Guides

All programs are taught by experienced instructors who hold AMGA certifications appropriate for the terrain they guide in, along with Wilderness First Responder or higher medical training. Our guides have extensive experience climbing throughout the Northeast and emphasize safety, technical precision, and risk management. We maintain small group ratios so every participant receives personal instruction on proper techniques, belay systems, and safe climbing practices.

Ice Climbing Course Overviews

Custom Ice-Climbing Days

Tailor your experience with a private guided ice-climbing day in the Gunks, Catskills, or Adirondacks. Perfect for individuals or small groups looking to focus on personal goals, improve efficiency on ice, or climb classic routes under expert supervision.
Explore Custom Ice-Climbing Days →

Intro to Outdoor Ice Climbing – Join a Group

Start your ice climbing journey with a supportive, group-based program designed for beginners. Learn how to use crampons, swing ice tools, and climb safely on top-rope while discovering the beauty of New York’s winter climbing venues.
Explore Intro to Outdoor Ice Climbing →

Programs for Groups and Organizations

Bring your team, club, or organization for a day of guided ice climbing in New York. We handle all logistics, instruction, and gear. These programs are ideal for corporate teams, college groups, or outdoor clubs seeking a unique winter adventure experience.
Explore Group & Organization Programs →

What You’ll Learn

• Fundamental ice-climbing techniques: tool placement, stance, balance, and energy conservation.

• Footwork and movement: mastering front-pointing and body position on varying ice angles.

• Anchor systems and safety: understanding rope management and belay setup (as appropriate to your course level).

• Winter climbing preparedness: layering systems, staying warm, and managing cold-weather conditions.

Each course includes hands-on instruction and guided climbs on real ice routes—no prior experience required. We provide all technical gear, including helmets, harnesses, boots, crampons, and ice tools.

Why Climb Ice with Gunks Guides

• Experience: Decades of winter climbing and instruction throughout the Gunks, Catskills, and Adirondacks.

• Expertise: Guides hold AMGA certifications relevant to ice and alpine terrain, ensuring professional, safety-focused instruction.

• Access: We guide on some of the best Catskills ice climbing and New York ice routes, including Kaaterskill Clove and Stony Clove.

• Trust: Fully insured and dedicated to safe, enjoyable learning environments for all participants.
  
  

Ice Climbing FAQs

Do I need prior experience to go ice climbing?
No experience is necessary. Our Intro to Outdoor Ice Climbing program teaches all the basics, including movement on ice, belay systems, and equipment use.

Where do your ice climbing trips take place?
We guide primarily in the Catskills, a short drive from New Paltz, NY.

What equipment is provided?
We supply technical gear, including helmets, harnesses, boots, crampons, and ice tools. You’ll receive a gear checklist prior to your trip for any personal items to bring (like gloves and warm layers).

What can I expect from a guided day?
A typical day runs from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and includes safety briefings, technique instruction, and multiple climbs. Guides tailor routes and difficulty to the group’s experience level.

Are your guides certified?
Yes. All guides hold AMGA certifications appropriate for the terrain they guide in, ensuring safety and professionalism.

Can groups or organizations book a private session?
Absolutely. We offer custom group ice-climbing programs for schools, clubs, and companies. These can be tailored to group size, experience, and desired objectives.