Ice and Mixed Climbing
Remarkables Winter Climbing
Remarkables winter climbing offers the most accessible ice and mixed climbing playground in New Zealand. Known for its reliable winter conditions and short approaches. Whether you are looking to swing ice tools for the first time or tackle technical mixed routes, the jagged shadows of the Remarkables deliver an unmatched alpine experience.
The unique beauty of the range is that the challenge of winter climbing remains accessible regardless of your previous mountaineering or rock climbing experience. With the high-altitude access provided by the Remarkables ski area, we can spend more time climbing and less time approaching.
The unique beauty of the range is that the challenge of winter climbing remains accessible regardless of your previous mountaineering or rock climbing experience. With the high-altitude access provided by the Remarkables ski area, we can spend more time climbing and less time approaching.
Telecom Tower
The West Face of Telecom Tower, accessed from the top of Shadow Basin and the Queens Drive, is home to the classic gully routes of 'Fridays Fool' and 'MK' as well as a variety of modern mixed routes.
Touchdown
Further afield 'Touchdown' on the South Face of Single Cone provides reliable ice throughout the season. Often both the earliest and latest ice that is in condition.
Access is possible by ski or splitboard touring to maximise the time on the ice. In thin early season conditions, or deep snow, expect up to 2 hours challenging approach from the ski field.
Wye Creek
The ice crags of Wye Creek provide one of New Zealand’s most accessible and varied winter climbing venues. In good conditions, these are accessible during a day trip from the ski field or it is possible to camp for a number of nights on a private trip or our scheduled group Ice Climbing Courses.
Double Cone and Single Cone
In the right conditions, it is also possible to do the Grand Traverse taking in the twin summits of Double Cone and Single Cone.
Early and mid-winter, the ice flows of the Alta Cirque look down on the frozen-over lake and ski field beyond. These provide the easiest accessible ice with classic routes of 'Scottish Jockey', 'Altered States', and 'White J'.
Meeting in Queenstown or with an early start from Wanaka a 1-2 hour walk from the ski field car park provides access to the ice and mixed climbing venues of the mountain range and a variety of climbing objectives for all levels of experience. A number of routes can be packed into a day before returning to the comforts of ground level.
Due to the long climbing days, short daylight hours, and winter driving conditions, multi-day winter trips are based from accommodation in Frankton or Queenstown. A short drive down the hill allows climbers to warm up and dry off after a full day out and maximise recovery and climbing opportunities. If conditions allow, it may also be possible to camp or bivi for a night.
Participants need to be prepared with clothing and equipment for winter backcountry travel.
For advice on equipment and clothing see preparation for ice climbing see our Knowledge Base.
Technical Skills
For more technical objectives, participants should have some experience with rock climbing and ropework, including knots and belaying.
Fitness
To get the most out of a day in the Remarkables, participants should have good fitness. Ascents and descents of up to 500m and up to 15km distance per day. 10 to 15kg packs.6 to 8 hours.
Availability
Contact us for private bookings during July, August and September.
Pricing
Day trips from $1390 / $750 per person for 1:1 / 1:2
Inclusions & Exclusions
Includes: GST, guide fees, compliance costs, technical equipment, and transport from Wanaka.
Excludes: Accommodation in Frankton/Queenstown for multi-day trips. A variety of options are available and price is confirmed on booking. Optional helicopter access.
