As thrill seekers look for new and exciting ways to pass the time, ice climbing has become amazingly popular. 

 This fairly new adventure sport is catching on fast and is quickly becoming a favorite pursuit.  Of the frequented destinations, Montana tops the list with its superb mountain ranges and more than 150 routes and waterfalls that when turned to ice, affords great opportunities for climbers. 

Courses are available as this is certainly not the type of adventure to indulge in without proper training.  The instructors will first take you on a fifteen minute hike and gradually increase the time.  You’ll be made to understand the importance of ice ratings.  WI 1, for example, means it’s a less challenging walk.  WI 4 depicts a climb that’s vertical necessitating the use of ropes.  WI 6 is the maximum rating and describes areas with steep climbs and no safeguards from “overhanging ice.” Once you’ve gone on a few treks, you’ll be able to stand firm and balanced.  You’ll also know how to handle the different tools and feel as confident as others. 

The months of November through March offer the best times for ice climbing in the state of Montana.  While many travelers take on the rugged Gallatin Canyon, others opt for the fork of the Hyalite where the biggest formations of ice are found.  You can journey towards the reservoir south of Bozeman to marvel in the acrobatic ease with which experts conquer the slopes.  If you’re in good shape and cherish the adrenaline rush the activity brings, follow through to Cleopatra’s Needle.  It’s a challenge for even the most experienced.  Boasting three mammoth falls, it’s only suitable for those in top notch physical form.  Here you’ll need to be strong and have the ideal cardiovascular disposition. 

If this is more than what you can handle, the Red Lodge nearby provides hours of somewhat effortless ice climbing without much danger.  But before you set course for your hike, make sure you’re allowed to proceed, as you will encounter along the way areas that are prone to snow avalanches.  So keeping your wits to recognize water ice ratings and to head the warnings of advisories is a definite must.

Stay safe and have a great time.