We got through the 2026 Ice Fest in fine style. From what I have heard it was most excellent, and tho certainly cold, not as cold as expected. YUGE KUDOS to Paul & Lisa McCoy, all the folks at IMCS and IME and of course all those volunteers for once again putting on a first class event. Unfortunately the Patriots didn't fare as well. But hey, you really can't complain about this truly unexpected season. Here's to next year, and for heavens sake sign Christian Gonzales... [LOL]
The MWV Ice Fest is considered one of the premier climbing events in the country. For over 33 years it has provided a great opportunity for those attending to network, socialize, try new gear and participate in multiple day courses, one-day technical clinics and privately guided climbs. Don't miss it!
Feb 5 - Feb 8, 2026 in North Conway, NH.
Our Current Review
AVALANCHE DREAMS: A Memoir of Skiing, Climbing and Life
Louis Dawson describes his life in six sections with each one representing a different era of his life. The forty-three short chapters flow smoothly and keep the reader wanting to explore one more episode at each reading.
Walk In The Forest -
WI 3
There are many options here. Grades vary from 3 to hard 4. The left facing runnel on the right often is a fun mixed climb. There's plenty or room for multiple parties and occasionally you will see groups setting up here and on Lost In The Forest.
If I have learned one thing in my 54 years, it is that it is very good for the character to engage in sports which put your life in danger from time to time. It breeds a saneness in dealing with day to day trivialities which probably cannot be got in any other way, and a habit of quick decisions.
—Neville Shute
In case you weren't really believing that there is a train running!
Frankenstein trestle, Crawford Notch
Selected Ice Conditions effective February 12, 2026
There sure is a lot of climbable ice pretty much everywhere. And for the most part it's plastic, or getting that way. Except where it's in direct sun for much of the day. A few classics like Machine and Snot Rocket simply haven't come in at all, but almost all the good stuff is there to be had and in pretty much consensus shape. I would say that this is the time to jump on it folks...
Huntington Ravine
numerous options
Repentance
been done
Standard Route
GREAT conditions
Dracula
IN & fat
For the full current conditions report, CLICK
HERE
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One Of Our Articles: Getting Your (Ice) Rack Together
Ice racks are personal, like fine cars and wives. Every climber's rack is different, and putting one together can be as easy or as complicated as you like. Here's a few tips on putting one together that will do most of what you'll need here in New England.
Climbing is a very dangerous sport. You can get hurt or even kill yourself. When you go climbing, you do so of your own free will. Everything on this site is to be taken with a grain of salt. Don't blame us if you get up some totally heinous route, in over your head and fall and hurt yourself.
