In an effort to always improve your Ice Fest experience, our staff have been busy putting together the 2018 schedule.  We are excited to announce that due to the increased sponsorship from some of the leading manufacturers in the outdoor industry, we are now able to offer free skill builder classes covering a broad range of topics.  Never ascended a rope before? Getting ready for a first time multi pitch climb?  Here is your chance to learn those skills during one of our Free Clinics!  When you register for Ice Fest be sure to check out some of these new offerings!

Belay Station and Transitions on Multi Pitch/Ice Screw and Anchor Placement

Increase your knowledge base, safety, efficiency, and speed on multi-pitch ice climbs by learning these valuable and important techniques during this non climbing, highly informative clinic.  Learn the fundamentals of ice screw placements, anchors, v threads and other anchoring systems during this non climbing, highly informative clinic. FREE!

Equipment Selection 

Looking to find the perfect gear for your climbing adventures? Join an industry rep as they discuss the perfect gear selection that professionals utilize before tackling the big routes.  Join our staff and learn the tricks of the trade!  Participants will not be climbing during this half day course. FREE!

 

Ice Tool Sharpening

Join the Michigan Ice Fest guides to learn some pro tips on how to keep your tools and crampons razor sharp. Participants will not be climbing during this half day course. FREE!

 

 

Ice Climbing Dress For Success!

Learn what to wear to stay comfortable during an Upper Peninsula ice climbing session! Join the Michigan Ice Fest guides and learn layering system, as well as some pro tips. Participants will not be climbing during this half day course. FREE!

 

Lakeshore Safety Class

Climbing along the backcountry of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore requires a certain set of skills.  During this half day course participants will learn the different methods on how to safely ascend a rope. Participants will not be climbing during this half day course. FREE!

 

Yoga for Ice Climbers

The key to mindfully tackling tough ice pitches? Strengthen your finger grip, increase your chest-and-shoulder flexibility, and improve your agility. This morning class will warm up the spine and work on opening tight muscles by stretching and preparing for a day on the ice. FREE!