Ice climbing in Southern Ontario is a gem waiting to be enjoyed by those with an open mind and a penchant for adventure. “Comparison is the thief of joy” applies well to SO, when most ice climbers dream of 5 star locales such as the real (CDN) Rockies, Kandersteg, Norway and even places closer to home like the Lake, the Dacks and La Belle Provence. But climbing in SO is worthy of attention and best of all it’s untapped! It is special, unique and like all ice and mixed climbing, it's engaging. Nowhere does one have to wake up as early, drive as far, trek/ski farther across frozen (or not so frozen) lakes to climb "short" ice lines.
The hardy and motivated few will find little evidence of others' passage: ice will very likely be untouched allowing climbers to revel in everything that a first ascent of the season includes. The routes vary from rolling flows perfect for beginner to dripping hangers, protected by pro in roof cracks.
SOIce has a lot to offer - and it’s worth enjoying! The aim of the site is to keep the collective SO community’s passion burning bright and hot. I hope you follow along, feel comfortable sharing your stories, and are inspired to join me in helping to create a community to be proud of. Hope to see you out there!
Additionally, access to these special areas is a privilege, not a right. Consider supporting the Ontario Alliance of Climbers to work with all landowners in addressing concerns.
Words and works on these pages took time and effort to prepare. Please don’t reuse, re-publish without prior permission. All rights reserved.
Andriy Kolos
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Brent Elliott photo.