Michigan Ice Fest once again brought climbers from around the world to the icy cliffs of Munising, creating an atmosphere of adventure and education.
First-time climbers, seasoned veterans and elite instructors showcased the sport’s technical side and its inclusive community.
Renowned climbers Carlos Buhler, Tim Emmett, Allie Oaks, Kelsey Rex, Charlie O’Connell, John Miller and Bill Thompson led clinics, guided participants and inspired attendees.
Buhler, a legendary high-altitude mountaineer known for first ascents, led an intermediate clinic at Twin Falls, emphasizing technique, efficiency and safety.
“The accessibility of ice climbing is what makes it unique,” Buhler said. “We had climbers from 40 to 70 pushing their limits and growing in confidence.”
Emmett, a British extreme climber known for cutting-edge ascents, delivered a keynote on his shift from high-risk solo expeditions to a more measured approach after fatherhood.
“Ice climbing, like life, is about adaptation,” he said. “Munising’s ice forces you to be precise, to read the terrain carefully.”
Women’s climbing was a focal point, with Rex, Oaks and O’Connell leading a women’s backcountry clinic at Rappin’ Ice, fostering a supportive space for women and gender-expansive climbers. “Ice Fest is about more than just climbing; it’s about mentorship and making sure everyone feels welcome,” Oaks said.
“One of my most memorable experiences … was co-guiding with Kelsey Rex and Allie Oaks on a women’s backcountry trip at Rappin’ Ice,” O’Connell said. “They are amazing climbers, teachers and hugely uplifting in the women’s climbing community.” Festival organizer Thompson noted attendance was slightly lower than last year — about 900 compared to 1,100 — but strong ice conditions made the experience exceptional.
“For the first time in years, we had safe lake ice to reach Grand Island,” he said. “That amount of climbable ice made all the difference.”
The festival continued its commitment to adaptive climbing, offering specialized sessions for amputees and climbers with disabilities.
Miller, president of the Upper Peninsula Climbers Coalition, said, “Ice Fest is my favorite — and most exhausting — week of the year,” he said. “It brings together everyone, from first-time climbers to the best pros in the world. The atmosphere and camaraderie are contagious.”
As the ice season winds down, participants and organizers are looking ahead to next year. Climbers left with sharpened skills, new friendships and a deeper appreciation for Michigan’s unique terrain.
“Whether it’s your first climb or your hundredth, Ice Fest has something for everyone,” Emmett said. “I’ll be back.”
