Cody Wyoming sets in the midst of some of the best ice climbing in North America. There are climbs in all directions from Cody but none more famous then the crown jewel itself, the South Fork of the Shoshone River. The upper South Fork is home to the largest concentration of natural waterfall ice in the lower 48 states. It is second only to the Canadian Rockies on the north American continent.

Climbs ranging from single pitch to 8 pitches in length line the valley. Difficulty ranges from WI 2 to WI 7 with the majority in the WI 4 and WI 5 range. The approaches range anywhere from 20 minutes to 3 hours for the more remote climbs. Rarely do you need skis or snow shoes to access these climbs as the valley floor rarely gets much snow.

There are currently over 150 named and rated climbs in the valley and more first ascents being done annually. Many more first ascents await those hearty enough to venture into the back country.

On the average, the season runs from late October until late April. Early and late season climbing is usually best on East Carter Mountain accessed by the Carter Mountain access road. Other late season jems can be found up Deer Creek drainage near the end of the South Fork.

Currently there are no professional guide services available but one can usually convince one of the locals to share a rope or point you in the right direction.

For more beta about ice climbing you can contact us or go to www.coldfear.com.