Bear Spirit - WI4+, 25m

Well the heat wave hit, after a month of below average temperatures and about average snowfall, the spring temperatures arrived with strength.  John and I were looking for a casual day of ice climbing.  I did not ice climb at all last season (2017/2018) since I was recovering from bicep tendon repair surgery, and only ice climbed three times in the previous season (2016/2017). An easy day was in order.  John suggested Bear Spirit crag and I had only been there once before, about 6 years with Kyle, so seemed like a great idea.

John on TR having fun.

Bear Spirit was first developed as a mixed crag, but typically has a large nice steep curtain of ice, WI4+ to 5, so it is popular was a top-roping venue for ice or mixed climbing. Relatively short approach and easy access to the top of the curtain makes this venue busy most of the time. John and I had a rare day of only ones there, probably due to the very warm temperatures, but the crag is well shaded, and we only climbed in the morning. 

Back of the curtain, not that thick.

Front of main ice curtain.

John on rap after setting up top rope anchor.

John having fun.

More TR action

About 45 minutes of approach, set up the top rope and we climbed until our arms were done, about 5 laps each. Enjoy the feel of the steep ice, without fear of falling, and headed to Banff from pizza in the warm sun.  Fun casual day to get one day of ice climbing this winter, now time to rock (climb).