ICE CLIMBING WITH A GUIDE: MULTI-PITCH WATERFALLS

Previous ice-climbing experience is required. Contact our office so that we can discuss your level, the climbing areas and current conditions, and recommend a route suited to your experience and objectives.

What you need to bring

• Rigid-soled mountaineering boots.
• Technical ice axes and crampons with anti-balling plates.
• Harness, two locking carabiners and an anchor sling.
• Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproof jacket and trousers.
• Hiking trousers, fleece or equivalent, and a synthetic insulated or down jacket.
• Thermal base layer.
• Gloves and a spare pair.
• Warm hat, sun cap, sunglasses and ski goggles.
• 45 litre backpack.
• Poles.
• Sun protection.
• Food you enjoy for the practical outings and 1.5 litres of water.

Equipment we can lend you

• Technical ice axes and crampons with anti-balling plates.
• Harness, two locking carabiners and an anchor sling.
• Avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe.
• Helmet.
• A large backpack if you do not have one.
• Contact us for advice.

Included

• One day with a high mountain guide.
• Technical equipment: ice axe and crampons if you do not have them.
• Safety equipment: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe if you do not have them.
• Initial assistance insurance.
• Photos and video of the activity.
• Taxes.

Not included

• Accommodation and meals. Contact us for details.
• Transport to the meeting point.

Suggested ice climbing routes

Canal Roya: Ópera Prima, 180 m, WI 3; Diaples de Panti, 180 m, WI 4; Canal Roya Wall, 180 m, WI 4.

Izas: Ruta Jacobea, 150 m, WI 4; L’Eau L’Eau, 200 m, WI 4+.

Bielsa / Barrosa: Du Lard et du Cochon, 180 m, WI 3+; Océano Pacífico, 150 m, WI 3+.

Benasque: Mamporros, 100 m, WI 4; Cascada de Perramó, 100 m, WI 3.

Skills covered

Basic movement on ice, ice axe and crampon placements, and coordination. Essential knots and top-rope belaying systems.

Outline schedule

06:00: Meet outside the PirineoSur mountain guides’ office.

07:00: Begin the approach to the icefall.

08:00–09:00: Approximate arrival, depending on the chosen icefall.

14:00: Finish climbing.

15:00–16:00: Return to the vehicle.