NWben Posted November 30, 2011 Posted November 30, 2011 Hey guys, I just moved to Yakima from Bellingham and was wondering if anyone knew of any good beginner ice climbing spots that are accessible from Yakima during the winter. I have some alpine experience but just starting ice climbing. Anywhere up by snoqualmie pass and leavenworth would be great too. Thanks for the help. -Ben Quote
Dannible Posted November 30, 2011 Posted November 30, 2011 Get the book Washington Ice. There are a lot of easy and moderate climbs at Snoqualmie Pass and near Leavenworth, and harder stuff all over the place, including at Strobach, not that far from you. Nothing stays in all winter, so you have to pay attention to forecast and temps. If it's been in the single digits during the night in Yakama or in the teens fairly consistently, then you can probably find ice. Quote
tele turnin Posted November 30, 2011 Posted November 30, 2011 I'm assuming you already have a partner NWBen. If not and you are looking shoot me a message. Haven't been on ice a ton either, but when I have it was a blast and I would like to do more of it. Quote
NWben Posted November 30, 2011 Author Posted November 30, 2011 Dannible- I've heard thats a good book, I'll definitely look into it. Thanks for the advice. tele turnin- I don't have a climbing partner here yet! My brother is going to be in WA for a few weeks in December, and my dad climbs but he lives in B'ham. I'll PM you. Quote
kevino Posted November 30, 2011 Posted November 30, 2011 Ben, You'll need a good cold snap but the climbs on FS 19 up Hwy 410 are great. Literally bumper belays and good anchors. Further up hwy 12 you have strobach mtn, which requires a bit more committment for approach. Another good beginner spot its just outside of Ellensburg. Feel free to PM me, since I lived in Ellensburg for 6 years and used to work in Yakima. Have several climbing/skiing friends still in Yakima. With all that being said, your first step should be to buy the Washington Ice Book. Great source of info and support the local guys. -Kevin Quote
sws Posted November 30, 2011 Posted November 30, 2011 Pm'ed you Yakima guys about the goods, hit me up and we shall get out on them. Quote
NWben Posted December 1, 2011 Author Posted December 1, 2011 Yeah I'll for sure get a hold of you guys and we'll try to get out sometime soon. Thanks for all the info. Quote
cdmike112 Posted December 19, 2011 Posted December 19, 2011 NWben, I am in Ellensburg and also looking for partners to ice climb this winter. Let me know if you are interested. Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.