GUIDED ADVENTURES FOR
NEW CLIMBERS
ICE CLIMBING IN MAINE AND BEYOND
Welcome to our Winter Climbing courses for new climbers, where you learn all of the modern techniques for climbing technical ice, rock and snow with Maine's best climbing instructor. Everyone begins with Introduction to Winter Climbing. If you loved the experience and want to learn more, we have three focused courses for Ice Climbing, Mixed Climbing and Drytooling. For the 2024/25 season, we have an incredible package with a FREE adventure worth $650. The Complete Winter Climbing Package is Ryan's guarantee you will learn the sport of winter climbing, and graduate to a FREE, epic adventure into Maine's wildness with Ryan.
INTRODUCTION TO WINTER CLIMBING
Winter climbing in New England is a combination of climbing ice, rock and snow. Ryan at Northern Vertical is simply excellent at teaching this craft to first time climbers and he also recommends this experience for anyone who used to climb and looking to brush up on modern day techniques. This class is where it all begins!
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777 | 3:1 $999 | 4:1 $1,111
ICE CLIMBING
It's time to take a deep dive into ice climbing movement techniques and safety systems. By the end of this full day, Ryan guarantees you will be proficient at climbing ice routes up to grade 3+, as well as the fundamentals of ice anchor construction, which includes placing and removing ice screws and threads.
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777 | 3:1 $999 | 4:1 $1,111
Mixed climbing is the discipline of climbing rock and ice with crampons and ice axes. This precise and dynamic sport evolved from ice climbing and happens to be Ryan's favorite climbing style, placing emphasis on the subtle techniques of axe and crampon placements on rock and thin ice. Climbs range from M3-M5 and developed by Camden’s mixed master himself.
MIXED CLIMBING
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777 | 3:1 $999 | 4:1 $1,111
DRYTOOLING
Drytooling is the discipline of climbing rock with crampons and ice axes, more commonly referred to as tools, hence drytooling. This ultra precise and dynamic sport evolved from mixed climbing. Ryan places emphasis on the subtle techniques of axe and crampon placements on rock. Expect to climb and learn a ton from a master of the sport.
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777 | 3:1 $999 | 4:1 $1,111
WINTER CLIMBING PACKAGE
This incredible offer for the 2024/25 season combines all four beginner friendly winter courses, plus a FREE, personalized adventure with Ryan. Start with Introduction to Winter Climbing, then launch into Ice Climbing, Mixed Climbing and Drytooling. Ryan personally guides the entire experience, including an incredible Maine climbing adventure, for FREE! This $650 value is Northern Vertical’s thank you for learning from us this season.
Rates: From $2,222
MAINE ROCK CLIMBING ADVENTURES FOR ANY LEVEL
If you’ve never climbed, did some indoor rock climbing sessions and looking to climb outdoors, or just rusty, we have a rock climbing experience that’s right for you, your family, or small group.
FAMILY CLIMBS - HALF DAY
What better way to discover adventure in Maine? Rock climbing is a memorable family activity because it pushes comfort zones, builds trust, communication and smiles! Kids cannot wait to begin climbing.
Ryan meets your family in Camden and gears everyone up with rock climbing helmets, harnesses and sticky rubber shoes. After a short hike to the cliff the fun begins.
As always, Ryan captures your family climbing adventure on camera so the memory lasts a lifetime. Your family’s success is Ryan’s guarantee.
Rates: 2:1 $300 | 3:1 $400 | 4:1 $500
EXPERIENCE ROCK - HALF DAY
This half-day experience is for anyone new to the sport of rock climbing in Maine. Ryan curates this adventure privately for you and your group where safety, fun and learning abound.
Afraid of heights? That’s normal. Ryan teaches the safety systems and climbing techniques so you feel comfortable and confident in the Northern Vertical environment. Your successful experience is Ryan’s guarantee.
Simply meet Ryan in Camden, gear up with rock climbing helmets, harnesses, shoes, water and snacks in a backpack. Ryan guides a short hike to the cliff where the adventure begins.
Rates: 2:1 $300 | 3:1 $400 | 4:1 $500
RAPPELLING - TWO HOURS
This two-hour experience in Camden, Maine is for anyone who wants to experience rappelling for the first time, or learn about the equipment and safety skills to descend vertical environments. With sweeping views of Megunitcook Lake, Ryan will show you how this amazing cliffside pursuit is done safely and confidently.
Rates: 1:1 $150 | 2:1 $200 | 3:1 $250 | 4:1 $300
WHY CLIMB WITH RYAN?
Because you want the best climbing experience possible. Ryan has been climbing in Maine for over 25 years, has been the head guide for several climbing companies, and has a zero-accident safety record.
He’s an excellent instructor. With a master’s degree in experiential education and a bachelor’s in adventure therapy and adventure education leadership, he’s more than qualified to show you the ropes! His list of qualifications keeps going - click the button for his backstory and full credentials.
