*PAST EVENT* (ON) Intro to Ice Climbing Feb 2024

We are ice climbing for our second year in Ontario this February! Please note applications are closing Feb 1 and selections will be announced Feb 3rd via email.

Colour the Trails is working with OneAxe Pursuits to host a community intro to ice climbing session! Normally at a cost of $350 + HST, we are partnering with Arc’teryx to offer this event at a lowered cost of $150 (including tax).

We love our allies, but due to very limited space, this event is for BIPoC only.

What to Expect:

Hack frozen waterfalls. You don’t have to go to the Khumbu Icefall on Everest for some excellent ice climbing. Swing your ice axes and create your own route. It is an especially empowering feeling to reach the top of a frozen waterfall. No one said ice climbing is easy. But who wanted easy anyway? This program is suitable for complete beginners and indoor gym climbers. All equipment is included.

Schedule:

9:30 am: Arrive at OneAxe Pursuits (24 Henderson Street, Elora, ON, N0B 1S0) to be assigned rental gear. Feel free to organize carpools as needed using our private Facebook group.

10am-12pm: Belaying Training and Safety: Instruction will be given on the equipment, how to belay and basic ice climbing technique

12pm – 4pm: Ice Climbing with 2 instructors available for 12 participants

The following equipment will be available at no extra charge: Helmet, harness, ice climbing boots, crampons, and ice axes.

What to Bring:

Wear weather-appropriate clothing you are not worried about getting dirty or ripped.

Outer Layers:

• A warm, insulated jacket for belaying.
• A lighter insulated jacket for climbing (ideally waterproof, hardshell/Goretex).
• At least two pairs of winter gloves or mitts (as they may get wet). One pair can be mitts. If it’s milder, you can use one thinner pair of gloves (like garden gloves or “work gloves”). If you get cold easily, consider chemical hand-warming packets.
• Toque without pom poms or Balaclava (to wear under the helmet) – essential.

Inner Layers:

• Quick-dry clothing (polyester, nylon or wool)
• Warm layers (i.e. wool/fleece sweater)

You will be doing a lot of moving (cardio) then stopping so layering is key. Aim for a minimum of 3 layers from long underwear to wool sweater to jacket to take on and off.

Footwear:

• Hiking or ski boots ( in case of sizing issues with available ice climbing boots)
• “Ski” socks are the best, bulky wool socks bunch up and actually make your feet colder
• Spare pair of wool or ski socks

Food:
Plenty of rich nutritious food! You will burn lots of calories just to stay warm. An insulated Thermos (or even two!) of your favorite hot beverage or soup is STRONGLY recommended. You likely won’t be motivated to drink icy, cold water. Hot drinks will help keep you warm and happy!!!

Very important information:

Colour the Trails Policies (agreed to upon receipt of payment).

MUST be over the age of 18.

Must have a signed Colour the Trails waiver and OneAxe pursuits waiver to participate (will be sent to successful applicants).

Preparation for this event is key. Please make sure you have appropriate clothing and mindset to stay warm and positive in the cold. We ask you to make sure you are able to join as the space is very limited. At the same time, we encourage you to try something new.

Due to the specifics of the weather conditions required, the event may be canceled last moment (refunds will be issued).

Additional Notes

• A moderate activity level is required
• Harnesses fit up to 52 inches
• Helmet circumference fits 19 to 24 inches
• The min boot size is W4.5 and max boot size is M13.5 (you can bring your own boots or use ski boots if you are out of this range)
• If you have any health concerns, please consult a physician

** Please arrive on time to respect the effort and work that is put into organizing this event.