TIP: Click the   Video tab to see this activity in action

Hello, there seems to be a problem, you have either not got java enabled, or you do not have the latest Flash player installed. Please click here to install the latest player, once complete, close that window and refresh this page.

Ice climbing within the United Kingdom is restricted because of climate, to the indoor sport of ice wall climbing. A real climbing challenge, on real ice. Ice walls range in height between 25 and 50ft, and normally offer a variety of climbing routes.

Popularity
Ice wall climbing is popular on three fronts;
1) To the serious mountaineer or ice climber, as a venue to practise and hone their skills.
2) Ice wall climbing is a competitive sport in its own right.
3) As the ultimate one off sporting challenge.

Location
Ice wall climbing is not weather reliant, nor is it located in naturally isolated locations. it is found in indoor ice halls located in easily accessible urban locations. This is an activity which has more centres opening each year.

Age
There is no legal age restraint on ice wall climbing, although most wall operators do have a minimum age restriction of 14 years.

Ability
Walls are normally supervised on a 1 to 1 level, and offer a range of climbs from simple and easy angled slopes for the beginner, through to Gully features, water ice pinnacles and hanging bollards to challenge the most experienced of climber.

Description
Ice walls operate at significantly below freezing, so appropriate clothing (ideally three layers and gloves should be worn). Proper equipment is compulsory on the ice wall –i.e. full shank boots, crampons and axes (with leashes) suitable for climbing steep ice.

Dedication
Ice walls have provided a first experience of steep ice climbing to many climbers. Walls are designed to emulate the type of problems mountaineers may encounter on an outdoor route. Enableing the experienced climber to hone and refine their skills before taking to the hills.

Closely Related Activities
Mountaineering and Rock Climbing 423, Wall climbing 631, Caving 111, Bouldering 864, Buildering 966, Urban Climbing 965.

Cost
Ice wall climbing sessions cost around £50 for each person, this does however include a climbing breif, 1 to 1 supervision and instruction and personal climbing equipment.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

Please be advised that this record has not necessarily been reviewed by people with the expertise required to provide you with complete, accurate or reliable information. The information and images for this activity are supplied by the general public, Please contact us if there is a breach of copyright or you wish to improve the data.