Ic e C l im b in g in t h e P a c if ic N o r t h w e s t ARE YOU LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?
— — BY LINDY PETERSEN
MAYBE YOU’VE NEVER HEARD of ice climbing before and want to get a feel for this novel sport. Maybe you’re into mountain climbing and want to take the challenge to the next level by trying your hand with ice. Maybe you’re already a pro and are used to the thrill of the adventure; the cold biting into your body, the sheer adrenaline rush that comes with being dizzyingly high above the horizon and relying on your picks and ropes for survival. Regardless of your experience level or where you’ve been able to travel for the ultimate climb, it’s about time for you to check out some of the superb ice climbing locations that can be found in the Pacific Northwest. The mountains offer the best of the best in terms of spectacular views and unique challenges. Many of the treks discussed in this article are known for both their alpine beauty and their challenging aspects, especially given the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather that can circulate around the Cascadian region. The Pacific Northwest, or Cascadia, can be defined as the stretch of land in North America bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, spanning far Northern California all the way up to British Columbia in Canada. If you’re willing to put in the travel time to get to some of these remote locations, the region boasts some amazing peaks for independent ice climbers looking for an adventure, as well as top-quality guided climbs for those just starting out or looking to get a little more experience. Equipment For Cascadian Mountaineering Although there is a certain set of tools that every ice climber must have in his or her arsenal, climbing in the Cascadian regions requires a double check of your toolkit. Some equipment that will come in handy or even essential includes the following. (If you are new to climbing and not sure about the terms used here, please look them up and find the necessary equipment to ensure that your ice climb remains enjoyable and safe.) Guided Programs • Multiple different types of pitons, or steel spikes. Angled pitons as well as the regular kind are both good to have on hand. • Cams of sizes ranging from .5 to 4
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