Its been really good to see so many familular faces coming up and enjoying the ice these past two weekends!  There have been lots of folks exploring all corners of the park as well as Grand island. The ice is awesome right now and the forecast looks like it is only going to get better. Based on what we saw this weekend, it looks like the next few weeks will be the perfect time to come up and climb in Munising!

The crossing to Grand Island (ferry dock to ferry dock) is doable right now, but make sure you check with locals BEFORE crossing. Best travel on the island is via the mainland trials, NOT lake ice on the west or east side. IT IS NOT SAFE TO CROSS TO THE EAST CHANNEL CURTAINS FROM SANDPOINT.  The West Shore, The North End and Trout Bay have all seen action the last two weekends with many days being sunny which is rare for February!

Strawberry Daze PC Chris Zacharias

Dairyland PC Chris Zacharias

Pretty much all climbs on the Mainland are in with the exception of the Ampitheater although that might cahnge this week with the warm day temperatures and overnight freeze!  Please remember is you are climbing in the Front Country there is no parking along Sandpoint Road, only at the parking lot by the beach.

This is important as it allows enough room incase emergency vehicles need to pass through to thge end of SPR.

In our opinion the best climbing conditions in the U.P. are in March as the ice is fat and the sun starts to come out from its winter hibernation!  There are still ample opportunities to get some swings in so grab your friends and head on up for some spring climbing!

 

The Michigan Ice Fest Guides does offer a wide array of climbing gear for rent during the ice season. With gear from Black Diamond, Petzl, CAMP, La Sportiva, LOWA and many other great brands, we have what the gear you need to enjoy a day on the ice with friends.

If you have the skills and experience and are only lacking the gear, this a great way to get out. You can reserve any gear here.

At Michigan Ice we take pride in being your go to site for current ice climbing conditions for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore as well as climbs throughout the Upper Peninsula. Planning a trip to Pictured Rocks? We have you covered for all the latest snow and ice conditions on all of your favorite climbs. Check back often for updates, pictures, and trip reports!