ICE CLIMBING FAQs

Who takes these trips?

Anyone and Everyone. We’ve guided kids as young as 6 and people into their 80’s. You can do this. You don’t have to be super fit and athletic to enjoy ice climbing. If you’ve been climbing for years and are looking for something a little more extreme, we can do that too. Whatever you want to get out of your experience, we can make that happen. Ice climbing is a great adventure for families and will make memories that will last a lifetime.

What does a trip entail?

Ice Climbing. As much of it as you want. You and your guide will work out a time and place to meet and then you’ll drive to the crag. After some quick setup, instruction, and a safety briefing you’ll spend the rest of the day climbing. You can stay out as long as you want to.

What happens after I book a trip?
Once you book a trip you will receive a confirmation from us. You will get a second email over the next few days introducing you to your guide. Your guide will email to discuss goals and objectives, meeting times,s and to answer any questions you may have.

Is gear included in my trip? Can I bring my own gear?
Yes, all climbing gear is provided by the guide service. You can bring your personal gear but it needs to be inspected by your guide.

How long do we stay out?
Once your guide confirms a meeting time they will stay out with clients as long as the client wants. This can vary due to weather, the number of clients in the group, etc. We’re here to make sure you have a great day. If you want to climb, we’ll stay out.

How young of a child can participate?
For ice climbing our smallest boot is a size 4, so generally speaking around an 8-year-old. For rock climbing, we have taken 4-year-olds out!

Do you do half-day trips?
We do not, but clients can end the trip at any time they would like.

Do we bring food?
We highly recommend bringing food and drink for all guided trips.

We have a family member that does not want to climb. Can they come along?
Absolutely, we just ask that you inform your guide and that they are prepared for the day outside.

What should I bring?

Footwear: Medium-weight wool or synthetic socks will help to keep your feet warm during your climb.
Base Layer: Long underwear top and bottom.
Mid Layer: Fleece or wool top and bottoms. “Puffy Jacket”
Outer Layer: Insulated winter jacket with a hood if possible. Winter pants
Headwear: Synthetic or wool hat, (beanie). A lighter weight fits better under the helmet. Buff or neck gaiter.
Handwear: Bring 2 pairs of lightweight gloves to climb in and 1 pair of heavier-weight gloves to hang out in.
Warm Drink: Hydration is as important and a warm drink can heat you up from the inside when it’s cold outside. Coffee, tea, cocoa, hot water, whatever your preference.

For more information or to register for ice climbing, contact Dr. David Mathews by phone or text at: 269.470.9969 or by email at: skydivermathews@gmail.com. He will confirm available dates and provide you with the registration information.