Tips On Waterfall Ice Climbing

Tips On Waterfall Ice Climbing

by Jaimee Blocksom

WORK UP TO IT

This activity takes strength and endurance, as well as experience with the general principles of climbing. "Couch climbers" should prepare for approximately one month, with emphasis on cardiovascular training and upper body workouts. Arm strength is critical to this activity. Thirty minutes of vertical ice climbing takes great stamina.

LAYER CLOTHING

Time spent belaying, setting up sites and preparing gear is the coldest part of ice climbing. Add an extra layer for these times. Mittens provide more warmth than gloves. Placing ice axes will keep your hands away from the core of your body, a major heat source. During the actual climb itself, great energy is expended which will increase your body temperature. If you are a novice ice climber, be aware that your belayer, who is expending much less energy, should be dressed appropriately.

WEAR HELMETS AND GOGGLES

This should be mandatory whether belaying, climbing, photographing, or spectating within 20 feet of the climb. Ice shatters and then falls when the ice axe and crampons are driven into it. BE AWARE OF FALLING ICE. Never stand directly below the climber. Belayers should stand to the right or left of the climber.

END OF THE CLIMB

This can be the most hazardous time of the climb. All of your energy has been utilized during the climb, you are physically exhausted as you near the bottom, and until you are on solid ground a bad fall can still occur. Posing for a photo at this time can be hazardous to your health. You may try to sit down or lean against the ice, only to slide right down it. Keep your crampons on until you leave the ice.

EXAMINE YOUR ROPES IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CLIMB

Ropes can get nicked or cut by the ice axes - check them out carefully for any potential damage.