Meet The Ice Climbers of Michgian

Hooking into a sheet of ice, climbers begin to scale a frozen wall in what seems like a gravity-defying feat. Ice climbing may seem like it’s reserved for a select group of seasoned athletes, but the enthusiasts from Michigan will be the first to say that anyone can learn this exhilarating outdoor sport.

“It’s never too late to start,” says pro climber Bill Thompson. “All you need is an opportunity.”

As the co-owner of Down Wind Sports and co-founder of the Michigan Ice Fest, he’s seen participants from ages 8 to 78 years old try out the sport for the first time. Adaptive ice climbing equipment makes this activity possible for those with physical disabilities, and there are also outreach programs to reach diverse communities.

“We’re blessed in the Upper Peninsula,” says Thompson. “It’s a paradise for people who want to have solitude, get out in a beautiful setting and have fun climbing.”

In areas around Munising, Houghton and Marquette on the shores of Lake Superior, gradual snowmelt falls over cliffs and freezes into jagged curtains and columns. In various sites around the Upper Peninsula, waterfalls seem to stop in mid-flow at the height of winter.

Like many of Michigan’s greatest natural treasures, it’s our geography that makes all the difference. During winter months in this region, lake-effect snow means that cold air from the north flows over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes, picking up moisture that freezes and falls over the shores.  

From first-timers to seasoned climbers, there are outfitters around the Upper Peninsula who can provide the necessary gear, training and support. They’ll take you to areas where the conditions are primed for climbing and appropriate for your skill level.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising is one of the most renowned spots for ice climbing. As waters seeps from the porous sandstone cliffs along the lakeshore, it freezes into the spectacular ice curtains and columns that attract climbers from around the world.

“The Curtains” is one of the most accessible and active spots in the area, along with the 40-foot Miners Falls that requires skiing, snowshoeing or walking to the location.

On Lake Superior, Grand Island National Recreation Area also has a number of amazing places to climb, thanks to its 30 miles of cliff-lined shores.

In Rock River Canyon Wilderness (part of Hiawatha National Forest), the Eben Ice Caves are naturally formed by water seeping from the Rock River Gorge. You have to hike nearly a mile to reach the ice caves, which are open for both trekking and exploring.

The Michigan Ice Fest is the longest-running festival of its kind, taking place this year from Feb. 7–11, 2024.  

Watch a beginner  ice climber celebrate her first time in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in our exclusive video, “First Ascent,” featuring Bill Thompson and other seasoned guides.

Watch these videos for more information about the festival and ice climbing safety tips.