Ice Climbing in Beijing

February 2004

Beijing - One of the lesser-known ice climbing sites in the world, China has a fast rising reputation with the world climbing community on its natural rock and ice-climbing facilities. With the ice-climbing season confined to winter, ice climbers from all over the world congregate onto the vast ice walls to take advantage of the pristine sites and its cheap cost of living.

In 2004, China is hosting the world cup for ice climbing, a competition has traditionally held in America and Europe.

Why Beijing?

China is one of the closest countries to Singapore with ice climbing facilities. The low course and flight costs made the training trip very economical. At the same time, as the ice walls are located at a relatively low altitude, there was no need for acclimatization enabling the team to focus on the ice climbing itself. Honing the mountaineering skills required for ice climbing will be crucial for the training climbs to Gasherbrum II, Cho Oyu, and Everest, which will necessitate navigation on steep ice.

A personal account of the trip can be accessed through the link below. Feel free to visit the photo gallery on this site, which holds an assortment of images from the trip.

A Personal Account on Beijing Ice Climbing