Ice Climbing Horsetail Falls, ICE 1 Training

Join us in June Lake for top rope ice climbing and ICE 1 training! This beginner-friendly crag is a fan favorite, and a stellar place to get ready for alpine ice and the start of mountaineering season. Prior experience climbing ice and snow is helpful, but not required. Participants will be expected to know how to tie in and belay safely. Loaner gear may be available.

No screening: please register if you are interested and qualified. Hope you can join us!

DETAILS:

• What's happening: Thursday ice cragging and ICE 1 training at Horsetail Falls or assorted nearby crags, in June Lake, using top rope belays and mock lead climbing, potential multi-pitch on WI2. Crags rated WI2 - WI3. Horsetail Falls has a steep 1.5 mile approach, requires the use of a fixed line, and a has a possibly treacherous stream crossing in order to get to the crag. The nature of the event will depend on the condition of the ice this late in the season - there may be some thin ice and / or easy mixed climbing.

• Where to meet: Drive to the town of June Lake and beyond to park on the shoulder of the road near the barriers at the end of the Hwy 158, near the power plant. Even though this road is often plowed, an AWD or 4WD may be needed. Please plan extra time for winter travel. Lodging is available in June Lake or in nearby Lee Vining.

• Volunteer Event Leader: Darren Shutt, 916-872-3399

• Minimum / Maximum: 2,10

• What to bring: Warm mountaineering boots, sharp crampons, ice tools, snowshoes or skis, harness, helmet, belay device, warm layers, waterproof jacket and pants, puffy, food, 2 liters of water, large pack, trekking poles. Crampons, ice tools, harness, helmet, and snowshoes may be provided by MAA upon request, first come first serve. MAA will provide ropes and technical ice climbing equipment.

• Medical: If you have any medical conditions pertinent to your participation on this event, please inform the event leaders after registration.

• Additional Info: If conditions are not good or unsafe, this event may be cancelled or altered, even with very little notice. Driving on winter roads is hazardous, carry chains and plan extra time for travel.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• Event leaders are experienced volunteers, but not certified guides.
• This event is free of charge. MAA receives no direct financial gain for organizing and supporting this event.
• Participant safety is our top priority. Circumstances beyond the leader's control may necessitate changes to the proposed itinerary or objectives.
• The event begins and ends at the trailhead. MAA does not insure ridesharing or other travel arrangements and bears no responsibility for them. Carpooling, ride sharing, or anything similar is strictly a private arrangement among individuals.