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cascade ice climbing

Guided Ice Climbing from Chamonix

The Chamonix Valley is a fantastic place to spend a winter day on frozen waterfalls. With easy access to a wide range of routes, it’s simple to pack a full ice-climbing adventure into a single day. From beginner-friendly cascades tucked away in quiet alpine gullies to steeper lines that challenge experienced climbers, there’s something here for every level.

If you want to go a little further afield, classic day venues like Cogne in Italy are just through the Mont Blanc Tunnel. It’s filled with reliable ice and countless routes, making it perfect for a quick getaway. Whether you’re trying ice for the first time or looking to refine your technique on longer, steeper pitches, a guided day out keeps the logistics easy and the focus on climbing. Just bring your sense of adventure...we’ll handle the rest!
Person climbing a cascade icefall
Picture
WHERE SHOULD I BASE MYSELF?
Stay in Chamonix and explore the best cascade ice climbing the area has to offer.
WHEN CAN I CLIMB cascade ice?
It's always conditions dependent, but the cascade ice climbing season is generally from January to late February.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
The Chamonix Valley and surrounding area offers something for every level of climber. Whether you're a first time climber or are fairly experienced, let us know what you've done in the past and we will plan the perfect trip for you.

Having a good level of fitness is key to experiencing successful and enjoyable days out in the mountains. To increase your enjoyment and success during your ice climbing trip we work with Apexx Endurance Coaching, who provide custom training plans written specifically for you and your goal. Get in touch with Apexx Endurance Coaching directly to start your training.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The price depends on exactly what you want to do. Get in touch to let us know what you'd like to do, and we can send you a price and more information.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
The price will include an IFMGA Certified Guide. You need to cover your valley accommodation, huts, lifts, transport, food, insurance and your guide's expenses.
what kit do i need?
Clothing
Waterproof Jacket - Full weight with helmet compatible hood is best
Waterproof trousers - Full Weight with 3/4 or full length side zips
Socks - Warm mountaineering socks plus thin liner socks and spares
Thermal/Base Layers - Wicking thermal top and bottom. No cotton.
Technical Fleece - Technical fleece midlayer
Softshell Jacket - Mid weight, wind resistant, light insulating layer
Belay jacket - Down or synthetic insulation
Powerstretch tights/warm mountain trousers - Should fit comfortably under your waterproof trousers
Gloves - Thin inner gloves and at least 2 pairs of warm, waterproof gloves 
Hat - Warm hat that must fit under a helmet
​
Spare mittens - Recommended if you suffer from cold hands
Climbing Equipment
Rucksack - 40-50 litres is recommended to fit extra winter kit
Rucksack - Superlight 15/20 litre model for taking on long multi-pitch icefall routes (optional)
Boots - B3 rated climbing boots
Crampons - C2 or C3 rated crampons
Harness - Climbing harness with a belay plate and locking carabiner
120cm sling and locking carabiner
Helmet - Climbing specific helmet
​
Ice axes - Pair of technical ice axes
Other Equipment
Sunglasses - Sunglasses - Cat 3 or Cat 4
Goggles - Goggles for windy and snowy conditions
Suncream - Suncream and Lipbalm - SPF30 or higher
Headtorch - Lightweight and fully charged headtorch (or new batteries)
First Aid kit - Small personal kit including personal medication, blister plasters and pain killers
Waterbottle - 1 Litre (flask or waterbottle)
Lunch & Spare Food - Enough for a full day on the hill; preferably lots of snacks you can pull out of pockets easily
Wallet
Passport
Insurance documents
Mobile phone
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​+44 (0)7826 525 394
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  • Home
  • Alpinism
    • 4000m Peaks
    • Chamonix Mountaineering
    • Matterhorn
    • Eiger
  • Skiing
    • Off Piste Skiing
    • Ski Touring
  • Cascade Ice Climbing
  • Scotland
    • Cuillin Ridge
    • Ben Nevis & Glencoe
  • About
  • Apexx Endurance Coaching
  • Booking
  • Contact
  • Blog