lee vining
Ice Climbing
Trip Length Options // Full or Half Day
***Due to overcrowding in Lee Vining Canyon, commercial ice guiding has been temporarily suspended until further notice. Please check out our other option at June Lake for a day out on the ice with us!***
One of the premier ice climbing locations in the Eastern Sierra, Lee Vining is home to many ice climbing classics from single pitch routes up to 2-3 pitches in length and that range in steepness from 70 degrees to vertical in some areas of the canyon. Conveniently located just a few minutes from the town of Lee Vining and 40 minutes North of Mammoth Lakes, Lee Vining is a world premier ice climbing destination suitable for the novice ice climber looking to swing some tools for the first time, to the more experienced ice climber looking to get some mileage on some long, steep ice. After your day out don’t forget to stop by the world famous Mobil and grab a snack at the Whoa Nellie Deli, you won’t regret it!
LEE VINING ICE CLIMBING
California
Frequently Asked Questions
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Commercial ice guiding in Lee Vining Canyon is temporarily suspended until further notice because of overcrowding. Golden State Guiding currently recommends June Lake for guided Eastern Sierra ice climbing.
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The suspension is intended to address overcrowding in Lee Vining Canyon. Availability may change, so check this page or contact Golden State Guiding for the latest status.
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June Lake offers accessible Eastern Sierra ice climbing for both first-time and experienced climbers, with roadside options, short approaches, and half- or full-day guided trips.
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Lee Vining is known for classic single-pitch and multi-pitch ice routes, with terrain ranging from lower-angle ice to steep vertical climbing. Conditions and route formation vary each winter.
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The season depends on sustained cold temperatures and ice formation. Timing and route conditions vary from year to year, and any future guided access will also depend on current commercial-use rules.
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Lee Vining has historically offered terrain for novice through experienced ice climbers. For currently available guided options at June Lake, no prior ice-climbing experience is required for an introductory outing.