TAOS CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Advanced Ice: Leading Frozen Lines Above Taos
An 8-hour advanced ice climbing course for ages 8 and up that teaches leading single- and multi-pitch ice with expert guidance—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Advanced Ice: Leading Frozen Lines Above Taos.
This Advanced Ice course is an intensive, 8-hour progression designed to move competent climbers into leading single- and multi-pitch ice. Under expert instruction participants practice route-finding at both macro and micro scales, mock-lead and take the sharp end, and drill anchors and transitions with the goal of climbing independently after the course.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Multiple Classic Venues
The offering draws from a set of established ice venues—Wasatch, Provo and Maple Canyon—so you’ll experience different ice forms and approaches as part of advanced route work.
Lead Single- and Multi-Pitch Ice
The class emphasizes the techniques and judgment required to mock-lead and actually take the sharp end on single- and multi-pitch ice—anchoring, transitions and practical route-finding are core components.
Intensive, Advanced-Level Day
This is an advanced, full-day (8-hour) course intended for climbers ready to push into independently leading ice; it’s structured to consolidate leading skills into a single focused session.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a concentrated instructional day: brief orientation, on-hill warmups, then repeated leader-focused rotations in which participants mock-lead, practice anchoring and transitions, and work on route-finding. Instruction is hands-on and practical with the explicit aim of preparing climbers to lead single- and multi-pitch ice on their own.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The course runs as an 8-hour, full-day program and is offered in the winter season (available from December to March).
Essential equipment for the course is provided by the operator.
Meet at Provo Ice Climbing Parking, Old Provo Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604 for course departure and orientation.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the course?
The Advanced Ice course is an 8-hour, full-day program.
What ages can participate?
The course is open to participants ages 8 and up.
What skill level is required?
This is an advanced course intended for climbers ready to practice leading single- and multi-pitch ice.
Where do we meet before the course?
The meeting point is Provo Ice Climbing Parking, Old Provo Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604.
Is equipment provided?
Essential equipment for the course is provided by the operator.
What is the tipping etiquette for guides?
Guides work to provide a safe, educational and enjoyable trip; if they meet or surpass expectations, consider a gratuity. In the U.S. guidelines similar to restaurants (15–20%) are suggested, and operators note you can always tip more but never over-tip.