We're finally in some good shape with the ice and I think that it's most likely sustainable through the rest of the season. That is to say that I would be VERY surprised if we have any weather event that cause us to loose much of what we have at this time. Especially considering how cold the temps are going to be for the coming 10 days or so! It makes me confident that we're going to have a great crop of ice for Ice Fest! WOO WOO
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.
North End Pillars -
WI 3
A very popular area for teaching and beginners, especially with the easy access. There are a wide variety of short fun climbs.
If you can bang a pin in with your ice axe without anyone yelling at you and you packed the whiskey 'cause it is the only thing that won't freeze, you're probably alpine climbing.
—Christian
Looking good in a sunny Amphitheater, on a chilly January morning.
Chia, Frankenstein, Crawford Notch
Selected Ice Conditions effective January 21, 2026
Since I have a crazy busy day Thursday I headed up to the Notch Wednesday morning to take the pictures and video. I sincerely doubt that the ice conditions are going to change significantly between Wednesday and Thursday morning peeps... And some weeks ya just gotta do what ya gotta do! [LOL] enjoy...
Huntington Ravine
numerous options
Repentance
been done
Standard Route
GOOD
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.