Spread between Bozeman, Mont., and nearby Hyalite Canyon, the Bozeman Ice Festival is an all-in-one ice climbing event. It centers around on-ice clinics, which accommodate new and experienced ice climbers, with designated clinics for women, BIPOC and LGBT climbers. You can get a lesson in mixed ice and mountain climbing or attend sessions on topics like backcountry survival, yoga and mental health in the mountains. Participants are encouraged to climb together in Hyalite Canyon and then gather in town afterward for a round of beer and other evening events. Nightly programming ranges from panel discussions to live storytelling, and there’s also an Adventure Film Festival.
The Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival is the main event of the Montana Mountaineering Association (MMA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its mission is to support the Montana community via a variety of instructional experiences and educational programs focused on “alpine endeavors.”
The Specs
- Around 2,500 people are expected to attend the festival.
- While some events are free, you’ll need to buy tickets for events and clinics within the festival. Prices range from $25 to $295, you can find all of the clinics currently listed for this year here.
- New to Montana? Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the best things to do here.
FAQs
Where does the Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival take place?
The Bozeman Ice Festival is held across the wider Bozeman area, with events held both in the city and in Hyalite Canyon, just south of Bozeman. Evening and indoor events have been held at the Emerson Cultural Center in past years.
What’s the best way to get there?
Carpools and shuttle services are available through the festival but are limited. Renting a vehicle with all-wheel drive and winter tires if you don’t have one is encouraged by the festival organizers. If you’re flying in for the festivities, the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is the closest airport, located a 15-minute drive from downtown Bozeman.
How far is Big Sky, Montana from Bozeman, Montana?
Big Sky is 44 miles from Bozeman.
Are there any age restrictions?
No, all ages can participate in ice-climbing clinics. In past years, the festival has taught climbers from ages 10 to 72, so you’re probably in the clear.
Do I need to have black diamond skills to attend?
The fest is for new and experienced ice climbers.
Will there be opportunities to check out new gear?
Yes. Anyone can check out the fest just to see gear demos. The Emerson Ballroom (111 South Grand in Bozeman) from 6:30pm to 7:30pm is set for gear sessions. check out gear. You will be required to return the gear in the Hyalite Parking Lot by 3:30 pm. Any late returns will be charged a fee. There is a strict return procedure that will be explained when you arrive and fill out the paperwork.
Additionally, the main sponsor is Black Diamond and supporting sponsors include Arcteryx, Camp, Patagonia, Petzl, Sterling (rope), Bridger Brewing (beer) and many others. Expect opportunities to check out products from the gear and beverage sponsors, as well as others.
Will there be any events for drytooling?
There’s a beginner mixed climbing clinic that includes drytooling.
Who organizes the Bozeman Ice Fest?
The Montana Mountaineering Association, a Bozeman-based nonprofit.
What countries have the best ice climbing?
Norway, Canada, Switzerland and America all have top-notch destinations for ice climbing.
