Climb the mountain pass of Smugglers Notch in Vermont during a 3-day ice climbing trip with AMGA-certified guide Alpine Endeavors.
Private
3 Days
Jan, Feb, Dec
High
Intermediate
The north of Vermont is home to the Mount Mansfield State Forest, covering a collection of towns, villages and vast forested space.
When the temperatures dip and winter arrives, snow falls on the Vermont mountains and ice blankets the slopes, crags and walls.
It holds sections of the Green Mountains, spanning 250 miles north to south. The highest peak in the range is Mount Mansfield, rising 1,340 meters above seal level. It is also the highest summit in Vermont.
We’ll be exploring Smugglers Notch, a mountain pass that separates Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.
The notch is one of Vermont’s premier natural spots that is perfect for ice climbing, both single-pitch routes and multi-pitch routes. Smugglers Notch also holds both ice style climbs as well as alpine climbs.
Here you’ll find some of the best ice climbing in the Green Mountain State. Frozen icicles drop down from the slopes and resemble a great white pipe organ.
Interestingly, the name comes from the Prohibition Era when bootleggers would hide their liquor, away from the prying eyes of the state.
Get in touch now to reserve your place in Smugglers Notch for a thrilling 3-day ice climbing trip in Vermont.
5.0
(7)
Alpine Guide
AMGA Certified Alpine and Rock Guide, New York State Licensed Guide, Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician, AIARE (avalanche training) Level I, II and III, Leave No Trace Master Educator, General Class Amateur Radio Operator -KC2IZD, Eagle Scout. Author of "An Ice Climber's Guide to the Catskill Mountains", and co-author of "A Rock Climber's Guide to the Peter's Kill Climbing Area".
I began climbing in 1988, and guiding in 1991. My first visit to the Gunks was during Columbus Day weekend in 1990. After a good number of return visits, I began guiding here in the fall of 1995 commuting (from my hometown in PA) for work until moving here in 1997. During the season of 1997, I worked part time at Rock and Snow until becoming a Level One Certified Rock Guide in October. From then on, I have guided full-time and consider myself lucky to be able to make a career out of guiding. I have shared the experience of climbing with many guests at many different locations throughout the country - some guests have climbed with me regularly for over 20 years. Over that time I have swapped leads, shared experiences, grown friendships, and set future climbing goals.
While I enjoy all types of climbing, I prefer the solitude, self-reliance, and commitment you gain from climbing traditional multi-pitch routes.
I strive to offer the most professional services possible, and continually work on improving my standards. I have been involved with the AMGA since 1993; participated in the Basic and Advanced Rock Guides courses, successfully completed two rock exams - Level One and Rock Guide, participated in both the Alpine and Advanced Alpine Guides courses, successfully completed the Alpine Exam, and continue to work toward my ski certification. I served two full terms on the AMGA Board of Directors (2009 - 2015) and Accreditation Committee, and as an instructor for their Rock Instructor and Single Pitch Instructor Courses.
Languages
English
Certificates
AMGA
Had the best time. Finally got to climb Sky Top. It's been closed to the public since 1997 and Alpine Endeavors hold the only permit. Will definitely book again.
Great experience ice climbing. Everything went smoothly from the time we arrived at Rock and Snow to get our equipment until the time we finished climbing. Simon was a great guide who got everyone in our family climbing up some great ice. We can't wait until we do it again. Marty was very responsive to any question we had prior to going.
We booked a party of 2 rock climbing class 101 with Alpine Endeavors in the Gunks. Our guide Jaron was super knowledgeable and helpful in showing us the ropes! Due to our skill level, we even had the opportunity to do a few multi pitch routes which was exactly what we were looking for. Super challenging and definitely well worth the price tag knowing we're were in good hands! Jaron was VERY down to earth and answered ALL of my annoying questions. I'd highly recommend this company to anyone who is looking for a new adventure with confident guides!!! Thank you again for such an amazing experience!!!
Amazing climbing experience in the Gunks. It was my first time climbing outdoors and I can't wait to go again. Alan was great and took us on some multi-pitch climbs and was able to set the day to the skill level of the group.
Very knowledgeable guide, John, was positive and hard-working. Felt safe and had an excellent experience
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