The Wyoming Ice Festival, held annually in Cody, Wyoming is a unique celebration of ice climbing that blends adventure, education, and camaraderie. Set against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming’s South Fork Valley—renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of ice climbs in the U.S.—this festival offers something for climbers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
What to Expect
The festival features a packed schedule of activities, combining hands-on climbing clinics with inspiring evening events. Participants can learn from world-class guides and professional athletes while exploring Wyoming’s breathtaking winter landscape. Evening activities include presentations by legendary climbers like Mark Twight and Erik Weihenmayer, film screenings, and social events with local brews and food trucks.
Dive into the Clinics
Clinics are the heart of the Wyoming Ice Festival, catering to climbers at every skill level. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine advanced techniques, these sessions provide small group instruction for personalized learning.
Beginner Clinics: Introduce newcomers to ice climbing basics, focusing on essential skills like movement, anchor-building, and safety.
Intermediate & Advanced Clinics: Offer more experienced climbers opportunities to hone specific techniques, such as mixed climbing or steep ice movement.
Specialty Clinics: Led by elite athletes, these sessions cover niche topics like alpine rescue, dry tooling, or climbing photography.
Each clinic is staged in the South Fork or nearby areas, which offer unparalleled climbing diversity. Participants meet at Cody Cattle Company each morning before carpooling to trailheads like Ishawooa Mesa or Pilot Creek.
A Glimpse into History
The South Fork Valley has long been a cornerstone of American ice climbing, boasting hundreds of routes that have challenged climbers for decades. Pioneers like Aaron Mulkey, one of the festival’s organizers, have helped put the region on the map with their exploration of new routes and dedication to the sport. Known as having the safest ice in North America to climb, this festival in Cody, Wyoming is the perfect place for beginners and seasoned experts to convene together.
Why Attend?
The Wyoming Ice Festival is more than a gathering of climbers—it's a hub for adventure seekers passionate about connecting with nature and the climbing community. With proceeds supporting local trail maintenance and climbing infrastructure, the event also contributes to preserving this iconic climbing destination for future generations.
Ready to take the plunge into a world of ice and adventure? Mark your calendar for January 2–5, 2025, and head to Cody to experience this unique celebration of winter sports and community. For more details, visit the Wyoming Ice Festival website.
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