WI3

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  Cobra Verde

  On March 10, 2024, we climbed the first pitch of Cobra Verde in Kananaskis Country. The approach was challenging because of the deep snow and no established trail, but the climbing was worth it. The climb is rated WI3 with a multi-pitch option.

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  Blue Cheese

  Blue Cheese ice climb is a single-pitch, wide curtain of WI3. It is possible to walk up to the bolts at the top with rappel rings and set up a top rope anchor. The approach involves a 3 km hike. There are 3 or 4 different lines possible across the ice curtain.

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  Balfour Wall

  Balfour Wall is a large ice climbing crag off the Icefields Parkway with single pitch routes graded WI4 and WI3 and walk up top rope access.

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  Two O’Clock Falls

  Two O’Clock Falls, a WI3 multi-pitch off David Thompson Highway, offers a fun and moderate climbing experience. The approach involves a 45-minute hike through a forest, circumventing ceremonial grounds. With three pitches and multiple climbing lines, it provides ample opportunity for varying skill levels. The descent can be rappelled or hiked. A rewarding climb suitable…

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  Tangle Falls

  Tangle Falls, located on the Icefields Parkway, offers easily accessed ice climbing with WI2 and WI3 routes. The short approach involves putting on crampons at the car and navigating icy trails. Descending can be done by rappelling. The climbing area features numerous WI2 and WI3 lines, with the option to set up top ropes.

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  Lady Wilson’s Cleavage

  The climb at Lady Wilson’s Cleavage offers adventurous exploration in the mountains, with a mix of belayed and solo sections up a frozen creek. Descending requires rappelling and using v-threads in some areas. The approach starts from the east side of the Icefields Parkway. Climbers should be cautious of avalanche risks and choose safe conditions.

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  Oliver Twist

  Oliver Twist ice climb is a single-pitch, WI3 in Kananaskis, Alberta. It is not very high and the approach is long in deep snow conditions.

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  The Wedge Smears

  The ice climbing area usually offers WI2 and WI3 routes with easy access for top roping. Accessible via a 1.5 km hike, with well-worn trails and tree anchors for top ropes. Parking near the start of the climb on the east side of Highway 40 in Kananaskis.