Equinox Guiding Service Featured in the Portland Press Herald: Why Maine’s Ice Season Is Thriving
This winter has delivered something many of us have been waiting for — real Maine conditions.
Cold temperatures. Consistent freeze cycles. Snow in the backyard. And for those of us who climb, that means one thing: ice is forming.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with the Portland Press Herald about this year’s winter conditions and what they mean for outdoor recreation across the state. The article highlighted the surge in winter activity — from ski resorts to snowmobile trails — and included a look at the growing interest in ice climbing here in Maine.
For us at Equinox Guiding Service, this season has been a reminder of why we love guiding in places like Acadia National Park, Grafton Notch, and the frozen lines scattered throughout Midcoast Maine.
Ice Climbing in Maine: A Strong Winter Makes a Difference
Ice climbing is highly condition-dependent. A dry fall can delay certain formations. South-facing routes may take longer to build. But when the temperatures stay cold and the storms line up right, the landscape transforms.
This year, we’ve been finding:
Reliable ice in shaded inland crags
Solid routes in Grafton Notch
Climbable terrain in Acadia
Excellent training conditions for newer climbers
It’s a reminder that Maine’s winter environment is dynamic — and adapting to those conditions is part of being a professional guide.
As I mentioned in the article, the key is managing risk and reading the terrain. Conditions change. We adjust. And people who want to be outside still get to experience something powerful and unique.
Why More People Are Trying Ice Climbing
We’ve seen steady interest from:
First-time climbers
Experienced rock climbers transitioning to ice
Families looking for winter adventure
Returning clients taking advantage of a strong season
When snow is visible in your own backyard, winter feels real. That psychological shift makes people want to engage with it — not hide from it.
Our guided ice climbing trips in Maine are designed to meet climbers where they are. Whether it’s a half-day introduction or a full-day experience in deeper terrain, we tailor the objective to the conditions and the climber.
Adapting to Maine’s Changing Winters
Over the years, I’ve learned not to let weather variability dictate stress. Maine winters are evolving. Some years are lean. Others deliver.
Professional guiding means:
Understanding microclimates
Choosing appropriate objectives
Building redundancy into plans
Making conservative decisions when needed
That’s the difference between recreational climbing and professional mountain guiding.
And when conditions are good — like they are this season — it’s something to celebrate.
Experience Maine’s Ice for Yourself
If you’ve ever considered trying ice climbing, this winter has created ideal opportunities across the state.
We guide in:
All technical gear is provided, and our AMGA-certified guides tailor the experience to your skill level and goals.
👉 Explore our Guided Ice Climbing Trips in Maine
👉 Book your winter adventure through our Booking Page
Maine winters reward those who step into them. When the ice forms and the air is crisp, there’s nothing quite like climbing a frozen line in the quiet of the forest.
This season is one of the good ones.
Let’s get outside.
— Noah Kleiner
Owner, Equinox Guiding Service
