Wyoming Ice Climbing

Ice-climbing clinics offered near Cody

CODY, Wyo. - A series of ice-climbing clinics will be held in the South Fork Canyon this winter.

The clinics, conducted by Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, will be held in conjunction with the 8th annual South Fork Ice Festival between Feb. 14-22.

The canyon is located about 40 miles west of Cody. The South Fork of the Shoshone contains the largest concentration of natural frozen waterfalls in the continental United States. Frozen ice exists in nearly every drainage, ranging from easy grade 3 ice to grade 5 test pieces.

"The clinics are intended for individuals with some previous ice-climbing experience who wish to bring their skills to the next level," said Rob Hess, chief guide for JHMG. "With a focus on modern ice-climbing techniques, participants will have opportunities to practice leashless climbing, multipitch ascension, rope management, descent tactics, v-threads, leading and rescue skills."

Phil Powers, co-owner of Jackson Hole Mountain Guides and executive director of the American Alpine Club, and Whit Magro, currently in Nepal attempting to climb Cholatse, will be leading the clinics.

To register, or for more information, contact JHMG at (800) 239-7642, or visit www.jhmg.com.