Canadian Technical Icefalls 2027
Level 3 : Guided Climbing
Climb among the vast wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, home to some of the finest ice climbing on the planet. With endless frozen waterfalls, dramatic mountain scenery and 33,000 square kilometres of pristine national park, Canada truly is the mecca of modern icefall climbing.
Take your ice climbing to the next level in the spectacular Canadian Rockies, home to some of the most iconic and sought-after icefalls in the world.
Our Level 2 Technical Canadian Icefalls Course is designed for climbers looking to progress onto more challenging terrain, tackling classic WI4+, WI5 and beyond routes in the legendary ice climbing areas of Banff and Jasper National Parks.
This course can be taken as the natural progression from our Level 1 Canadian Icefalls Course, creating an unforgettable two-week climbing adventure, or as a stand-alone week for experienced ice climbers looking to test themselves on some of the Rockies' most famous and technical lines.
With expert coaching, careful route selection and the incredible backdrop of the Canadian wilderness, you'll develop the skills, judgement and confidence needed to climb longer, steeper and more committing icefalls in one of the world's greatest ice climbing destinations.
Course Highlights
Experience world class icefall climbing
Stunning scenery in the Canadian Rockies
Quiet mountains and icefalls which makes for a wild and adventurous trip
Expert guiding from an experienced ISM Guide with 25 years' climbing in the Rockies
Canadian Technical Icefalls
Having built your skills and confidence on the classic icefalls of the Rockies, this second week takes you deeper into the world of Canadian ice climbing. We move beyond the foundations and onto some of the more technical, longer and more committing icefalls that have made the Canadian Rockies famous worldwide.
Our aim is to climb the legendary WI4+, WI5 and more challenging icefalls that define this incredible climbing destination. From steep pillars and sustained vertical ice to adventurous multi-pitch routes, each day offers the opportunity to refine your technique, improve your efficiency and experience the unique character of climbing in this vast mountain wilderness.
As always, our venue choices are guided by the conditions, weather and aspirations of the group. We'll seek out the best available ice across the spectacular landscapes of Kananaskis Country, Banff, Kootenay and Jasper National Parks, exploring the valleys and climbing areas that stretch along the Continental Divide.
This is more than just a week of technical ice climbing—it is an opportunity to experience the scale, adventure and wild beauty of the Canadian Rockies while climbing some of the finest frozen waterfalls in the world.
Technical Icefalls & Coaching
This second week is designed as the natural progression from our first week, offering the ultimate two-week ice climbing adventure in the Canadian Rockies. It can also be taken as a stand-alone technical week for experienced ice climbers looking to challenge themselves on some of Canada's most iconic and demanding icefalls.
Now we move onto the steeper, more sustained and more committing routes that have given the Rockies its legendary reputation. Climbing these classic WI4+, WI5 and harder icefalls requires refined technique, efficient movement, strong route management and a deeper understanding of conditions, protection and decision-making on steep ice.
From towering pillars and impressive multi-pitch lines to remote alpine objectives surrounded by vast wilderness, this week is about experiencing the true character of Canadian ice climbing. With expert coaching and carefully chosen objectives, you'll develop the skills and confidence needed to climb harder ice while enjoying some of the most spectacular frozen landscapes on earth.
Selection of Route Climbed
WI4+ to WI6
- Spray River Falls
- Nemesis
- Carlsberg Column
- Superbok
- Pilsner Pillar
- Field of Dreams
- Oh La Tabernac
- Kitty Hawk
- Polar Circus
- Weeping Wall
- Curtain Call
Further information
If you are interested in joining either or both weeks please contact Adrian Nelhams for further information adriannelhams@alpin-ism.com
Please Note: Accommodation on this course is on a bed and breakfast basis - click on Information Sheet for full details.
Course Dates & Booking
Meet the Team
Adrian Nelhams
ISM Director and IFMGA British Mountain Guide
As a Director of ISM, Adrian splits his time between guiding, the ISM office, family and climbing for himself. During his 30+ year commitment to the team, Adrian has played a key role in the development of ISM.
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