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| Polar
Circus |
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To
many ice climbers, the waterfalls of the Canadian Rockies represent
the ultimate vacation objective. There are literally hundreds of
climbs, a tremendous range of difficulty and length. Some of the
hardest climbs in the world are found here, as are some of the best
routes for the beginning climber just starting.
Access
is generally easy as most of the climbs are readily approached from
the scenic and convenient Banff - Jasper Highway. Many of the climbs
are only short walk from the car, while others require a ski or
snowshoe approach. There are convenient hotels and hostels, and
most climbers make use of these and the nearby restaurants and bars
to celebrate the days excitement.
The
best season is usually in the month of March when the days are longer,
the temperatures mild and the ice more plastic and forgiving to
the climber.
In
the late 80's and early 90's we made annual pilgrimages (sometimes
more than one a year!) to this Mecca of waterfall climbing. For
the last few years we have continued this tradition. |
