Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
Overview
Ever looked at a frozen waterfall and thought, “I want to climb that?” You’re in the right place. The Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour is a foundational introduction to the thrilling world of ice climbing. This course is suitable for total beginners and experienced climbers alike- anyone curious about strapping on the crampons and donning the axe is welcome!
This course teaches you not only the basics of ice climbing equipment, but also focuses on proper technique to help you climb efficiently. You’ll build strong base skills to take you as far as you want to go in your ice climbing adventure. Since total beginners and climbers alike are welcome, you’ll be able to learn from each other and enjoy the camaraderie of climbing as you revel in the stunning ice of the Canadian Rockies.
Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies Overview
Ever looked at a frozen waterfall and thought, “I want to climb that?” You’re in the right place. The Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour is a foundational introduction to the thrilling world of ice climbing. This course is suitable for total beginners and experienced climbers alike- anyone curious about strapping on the crampons and donning the axe is welcome!
This course teaches you not only the basics of ice climbing equipment, but also focuses on proper technique to help you climb efficiently. You’ll build strong base skills to take you as far as you want to go in your ice climbing adventure. Since total beginners and climbers alike are welcome, you’ll be able to learn from each other and enjoy the camaraderie of climbing as you revel in the stunning ice of the Canadian Rockies.
Dip a toe into the world of ice climbing, discovering the proper technique for scaling frozen waterfalls.
Learn or practise ice climbing fundamentals, including top rope belaying, knots, and equipment use.
Swing your axe and dig your crampons into the pale blue ice of gorgeous Kananaskis, Banff, or Canmore.
Enjoy the camaraderie of climbing with no pressure to know your stuff before you show up.
Trip map for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
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Itinerary for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
Learning the Basics in Canmore
Your ice climbing course begins at the Yamnuska office in Canmore. You’ll spend the day learning the basics of ice climbing safety, tying knots, practicing basic ice movement, and learning about top rope belay and communication.
To end the day, you’ll complete a top rope climb in the Banff or Canmore area to warm up.
Getting on the Ice
Today, get on that ice in the Canmore, Banff, or Kananaskis area (depending on the conditions). You’ll warm up, review the fundamentals, and spend lots and lots of time climbing with a coach on steeper climbs. You’ll learn how to place and remove ice screws and learn the basics of anchor construction.
Today will pretty much be guaranteed to be one you’ll remember forever. Don’t be surprised just how far you can go with great technique and proper body positioning. Have fun!
Optional Additional Climbing Days
Are you hooked (pun intended)? You can book additional days to keep climbing. Try some classic Canadian multi-pitch routes like Louise Falls, Professor’s Falls, and Cascade Falls. The student to guide ratio is kept very low on these days to facilitate learning. Please check ‘Optional Extras’ for the pricing.
Reviews
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Dates and prices for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
This guided skills training course is run as a fixed-departure tour where you’d be joining a group.
Prices below are per person:
| Start | Finish | Duration | Places Left | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2025-11-15 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2025-11-16 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2025-11-29 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2025-11-30 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2025-12-20 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2025-12-21 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2025-12-27 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2025-12-28 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-01-03 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-01-04 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-01-17 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-01-18 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-01-31 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-02-01 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-02-14 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-02-15 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-02-19 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-02-20 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-03-07 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-03-08 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-03-21 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-03-22 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD | ||
2026-04-11 Canmore 2 days / 5+ Spaces Left | 2026-04-12 Canmore | 2 | 5+ | $375USD |
What’s included for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
Logistics, Meals and Accommodation
This training course doesn’t include any meals, transportation, or accommodation. If you need any help with booking your own accommodation, we are happy to assist you if needed. Travellers taking this course can enjoy a discounted rate at Clique Hotels & resorts. For meals, please pack your own high-energy meals and snacks for field days.
Included
- Use of boots, crampons, axes, helmets, harnesses, and other specialized equipment
- Certified and skilled instructors
Not Included
- Flights
- Hotels
- Meals, drinks, or snacks
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Visas if required
- Anything not mentioned as included
- GST (5%)
Optional Extras
- Additional climbing days: $275 per person per day
Accommodation for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
There are no included accommodations on this tour. You will be responsible for choosing and booking your own accommodations, although we are happy to lend a hand. Travellers taking this course can enjoy a discounted rate at Clique Hotels & resorts.
Non-Standard Cancellation
- 60 days or more prior to departure: the cancellation fee will be 10% of the total trip cost (at least $150 CAD).
- 59 days or less prior to departure: the cancellation fee will be 100% of the total trip cost.
Frequently asked questions for Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies
How hard is the Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour?
We rate this tour as a 2/5. You don’t need any prior experience to enjoy this course. While some basic athletic ability is recommended, proper technique cuts down on the amount of brute strength you’ll use. You should be comfortable spending lots of time outdoors in cold weather.
Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour?
No meals are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Please verify that your insurance covers the included activities on this tour. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Canmore to start this tour?
Fly into the Calgary International Airport (YYC). We recommend renting a car if possible as you’ll need to find your way to Canmore and provide transportation during the course.
Is the Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour guided?
Yes, you will be learning from and supervised by an experienced guide.
What should I bring?
- Daypack (30-45 litres)
- Lunch, snacks
- Thermos flask and/or water bottle (1-2 litres combined volume)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
The following will be provided for you at no additional cost:
- Boots (must be crampon compatible)
- Crampons
- Climbing harness
- Climbing helmet
- Ice tools
- Belay device, carabiners, slings
Where does the Ice Climbing Basics in the Canadian Rockies tour end?
The tour ends in Canmore. You will need to find your way back to the airport.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Canada?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Canada?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Canada for this tour?
The best time to visit the Canadian Rockies for this tour is the wintertime between December and March when the ice is solid.
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