Ice Climbing

Without a doubt when speaking of ice climbing in the Midwest, the first area that comes to mind is Michigan. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, the Upper Peninsula offers some of the countries most outstanding ice climbing. This part of Michigan is a sparsely populated region with predominately northern hardwood forests. Hidden within these forests sandstone bluffs seep water that forms spectacular blue ice formations. Along with these seeps hundreds of waterfalls are also available for climbers to explore.

Stop by one of our shops for the most up to date ice conditions or to check out the latest and greatest climbing equipment available to the aspiring ice monkey. Also, don’t forget that we offer ice climbing equipment rentals out of our Munising location, and every February we organize the Michigan Ice Fest. The Michigan Ice Fest is the perfect place to become familiar with the area and to meet other climbers from the Midwest. It happens in Munising on the first weekend in February every year. For more info please visit www.michiganicefest.com.

Cliff Drive

Cliff Drive is located about 20 minutes north of Houghton. Here you will find a handful of climbs tucked into the dense woods of the Keweenaw. Finding the ice is sometimes the most difficult part of climbing in this area, so a trip to our shop in Houghton is a must if you aren’t from the area. We’re happy to share any beta we have… you just need to ask.

Hungarian Falls

A short hike up the snowmobile trail on Sixth Street in Tamarack City gets you to the beautiful Hungarian Falls. Hungarian Creek tumbles overs a series of falls on its way down to Torch Lake. The upper falls are around 20 feet high, while the lower falls provide a 50 foot drop, which is spectacular. The lower falls are the main attraction and can easily be protected from above which makes this area a great place for beginning climbers. And don’t miss the side falls to the west of the lower Hungarian falls.

Wolf's Den & The Grotto

Found on Hogback peak just north of town on county road 550, these climbs offer a fun day with fast enough access to get you back in time happy hour.

Little Presque

With several climbs right on the shore of Lake Superior, Little Presque is another great option for those looking to get out for some after work laps or a less commiting day on the ice.

This is it: Midwest Ice Climbing Mecca. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Grand Island Recreation Area, and the surrounding area offer more ice climbs than the entire rest of the state.

These are some of the classic climbs in the area that you just have to do. Don’t head home without baggin’ these great climbs.

Life’s A Pitch (The Dryer Hose)

This is the classic formation along Sand Point Road and a must for all visiting climbers. This type of large freestanding pillar is typical for the Munising area. The Dryer Hose, like most climbs in Munising, forms in an large overhanging sandstone bowl. The pillar forms a large cone at the base and narrows a great deal towards the top. Super fun and should be your first stop in Munising!

Dairyland

A mega-classic on the lakeshore- it is the largest formation in the park. The climb usually forms two large pillars that come together at the top to produce massive formidable bat wings. Ice is typically very brittle, three-dimensional, and the route is very sustained.

The climb has the character of a sea-cliff climb, due to the ominous presence of Lake Superior at its base.

HMR

One of the most beautiful climbs you'll find anywhere, this long, steep line drops straight into the often turbulent waters of Lake Superior. Featured in many climbing magazines, HMR is hard to reach but definitely worth the effort.