Just the best news ever! Heading down the stretch to Ice Fest and this weekend the lake ice was solid enough for climbers to cross over to Grand Island! If you have never experienced the magic of Grand Island, you have a chance this year! With some of the longest routes in the Midwest a trip to the island should be on everyone’s bucket list. While it may look tempting to cross the East Channel to get to the island it is VERY dangerous to do so. ALWAYS access the island from the Grand Island public access point just west of town. As always before venturing out on the lake ice, it is best to talk with locals or contact the Sheriff to see it it is still safe to cross as conditions can change from day to day.
The mainland ice continues to grow and reports have come in the Dairyland has finally touched down and saw its first complete ascent of the season this weekend. It sounds like the Ampitheater took a step back as we heard that the main pillar had fallen so we are crossing our fingers that it recovers in time for folks to hop on it during the festival.
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. We also offer a full guide service and are currently booking guided ice climbing trips for the 25/26 season! Check back often for updates, pictures, and trip reports!
The Michigan Ice fest Guides have openings if you or a group would like a specialized guided trip of the park or if you are just in need of some rentals remember our store is located at 112 Elm in Munising and are now open all weekend long! Looking to rent gear? If your group needs to rent gear Down Wind Sports in Munising offers ice gear rentals. Check out the rental details here!
BEFORE MAKING THE LONG DRIVE UP– please call Down Wind Sports for up to the minute conditions: 906-387-8020. Please remember that just because a conditions report says that a particular climb is “in”, each individual is ultimately responsible for making his/her own climbing decisions
Once again there is great news for ice making! Here is the 6 day forcast and its looking pretty good as the ice will continue to grow as we head into the festival. Don’t have a warm enough belay parka or puffy? Be sure to stop by Down Wind Sports at 112 Elm in Munising for the largest selection of warm jackets, climbing gloves and ice climbing gear in the Midwest!
