
The Michigan Ice “World Tour” is an exhilarating journey that champions the sport of ice climbing in a unique and accessible way. This annual event provides participants a captivating exploration of some of the best indoor climbing gyms in Michigan, igniting a passion for the thrill of ice climbing. The tour not only fosters a sense of community among ice climbing enthusiasts but also introduces newcomers to the sport, showcasing its challenges, and the sheer beauty of ascending ice. Through this event, the Michigan Ice Fest Gym Tour plays a pivotal role in promoting the captivating world of ice climbing in the Great Lakes State. We hope to connect with our Ice Fest Family at one of our World Tour stops this season!
Ice Fest World Tour 2024 Schedule
November 29th ELEV8 Climbing Gym Traverse City
Join the Michigan Ice Fest staff as we kick off our “World Tour” at ELEV8 Climbing Gym in Traverse City,
M which is the premier destination in Northern Michigan for indoor rock climbing, fitness and
community! From 6pm-9:00pm there will be indoor ice climbing routes, fun contests, informational ice
climbing clinics and the showing of Fallen Feather- The story of Detroit born, professional climber Sam
Elias, as he explores the little known ice climbing of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn about ice climbing in a safe and welcoming environment.
Whether you’re a seasoned ice climber or a curious beginner, this should be a fun way to get prepared
for the upcoming ice season!
November 30th Inside Moves Grand Rapids 5pm-9pm
Are you ready to experience the thrill of ice climbing in the comfort of an indoor setting? Look no
further! We are excited to announce our upcoming tour stop where Michigan Ice Fest teams up with
Inside Moves. Inside Moves, is one of the oldest gyms in the country as it was founded in 1989 and has
been serving climbers of the greater Grand Rapids area ever since.
This evening the gym will be transformed into a winter wonderland of frozen fun!
Event Highlights:
Fo-Ice Climbs: Our gym will feature multiple fo-ice climbing routes that will challenge climbers of all skill
levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, there’s a route for you. Safety gear and instruction
will be provided.
Dry Tooling Routes: For those looking to fine-tune their dry tooling skills, we have a couple of
exhilarating routes specially designed for dry tooling enthusiasts.
Mini Clinics and Demonstrations: Enhance your climbing skills with our mini clinics and demonstrations.
We’ll cover essential techniques such as tool swing, precise footwork, and more.
Screw and V-Threads Demonstrations: Curious about ice screw placements and V-thread anchors? We’ll
have ice blocks on hand for demonstrations, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next ice-climbing
adventure.
Mini Figure Four Competition: Test your agility and balance in our thrilling Mini Figure Four
competition. See if you can conquer the challenging figure-four move on the ice.
Tool Hang for Time Mini Competition: How long can you hang onto your ice tools? Compete with fellow
climbers in this gripping mini competition that measures your tool-holding endurance.
Hand Switch Traverse Mini Competition: Challenge your coordination and strength by participating in
our Hand Switch Traverse competition.
Tool and Crampon Sharpening Demo: Learn the art of tool and crampon maintenance. Our experts will
demonstrate how to sharpen your gear, ensuring it’s in top-notch condition for your future climbs. Feel
free to bring your own tools, and we’ll provide guidance on sharpening techniques.
Chili and Vegan Chili: Climbing can work up an appetite, and we’ve got you covered. Paulie will be
serving up large quantities of delicious chili and vegan chili, perfect for refueling after the comps!
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of ice climbing in a safe and welcoming
environment. Whether you’re a seasoned ice climber or a curious beginner, the Inside Moves Event has
something for everyone.
December 1st Detroit Outdoors -Dyno Detroit
Join Michigan Ice Fest & Detroit Outdoors at the Motor City’s newest gym! We will be set up
from 5-8pm at Dyno Detroit for an evening of dry tooling, ice climbing displays, and supporting
Detroit Youth Climbing Programs.
December 2nd Planet Rock Madison Heights- Planet Rock Goes Cold
Our oldest stop on our “World Tour”, Planet Rock and Michigan Ice have been teaming up for
almost a decade now turning people on to the sport of ice climbing.
What can you expect at the Planet Rock Goes Cold event?
•Ice Pole Training – our instructors will demonstrate how to properly and safely drive ice gear
into our 50ft wooden telephone poles!
•Ice Blocks – learn how to place ice screws and drive ice axes using real blocks of ice!
•Gear Demos – brand reps will be on hand to discuss various tools and gear used in ice
climbing. We will also have demo gear available to try on and try out on the poles!
•GEAR RAFFLE – customers will have the option to purchase raffle tickets and enter to win big
ticket price items.
•Ice Axe Lock-off Competition – think you have what it takes to hang on ice axes at a 45* angle
for the longest length of time? Test your feat of strength on the lock-off challenge!
Come out an browse the vendor booths while resting between pumps and the Planet Rock
Goes Cold Event!