You Can Have An Epic Ice Climbing Adventure At These Illinois Falls In The Winter

Want something to whet your appetite for winter adventure? In Illinois, look no further than ice climbing a frozen waterfall. Each year, climbing enthusiasts travel to Illinois for this unique scaling experience. It sure seems like one exhilarating way to warm yourself up during a cold winter.

For an Illinois ice climbing expedition this winter, you essentially have two options. The intrepid, or those who just want to see the spectacle, should head to Starved Rock State Park, located at 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348. For beginners, the best option is Nice Ice Ice climbing. Nice Ice Ice Climbing is located at 25737 S Old Monee Steger Rd, Monee, IL 60449.

Ice Climbing Starved Rock State Park / Facebook Group

guano / Flickr

While many Illinois parks serve up stunning ice falls come winter, few of them allow ice climbing. At Starved Rock, falls into four different locations freeze into faces to be scaled by those craving for adventure: Ottawa Canyon, LaSalle Canyon, Tonti Canyon, and Wild Cat Canyon.

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Vertical Adventure / Organization Website

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Vertical Adventure / Organization Website

The rush that climbers experience when ascending these beautiful ice formations gives new meaning to the term "free fall." Suspended high above Starved Rock State Park, you'll feel like the sky's the limit.

Tracy / Flickr

Ice climbing isn’t for everyone. If you ask us, though, a winter’s voyage to Starved Rock is worth it for the views alone. Where some find an opportunity for adventure, others a serene natural wonder to stare at. Either way, you're bound to be dazzled.

Nice Ice Climbing / Official Facebook Page

Ice climbing isn't easy! If Starved Rock seems too steep a place to start, but you don't want to sit on the sidelines, Nice Ice Ice Climbing's Chicago Ice Tower is the perfect place to get a foothold.

Nice Ice Climbing / Official Facebook Page

Even if you're just learning, their fun and accessible facilities will make you feel like you burn bright.

With all this natural beauty and opportunity for adventure, it might be easier than you think to fall in love with the Illinois winter. Careful though, in the case of ice climbing, that’s not something to take literally.

Is there a snowy spot in the state besides Starved Rock where you’ve been ice climbing? Do you have a favorite, alternative, icy activity just perfect for winter in Illinois? We love hearing your tips and seeing your photos. Get in touch!