January 10, 2026
Leaders: Cesar Hernandez, with help from Kayla Boisvert
Participants: Eric Stockwood, Matt Pulgrano, Sam Mayer, Conor Rafferty, Erik Muench, Parker Eason, Nico Walsh
A group of nine SSMC members kicked off the New Year with a safe, fun, and instructive ice climbing workshop in Crawford Notch, NH. Despite uncertainty in the forecast leading up to the day, we had a bluebird day with temperatures hanging around mid-20s. The group met in the parking lot at Arethusa Falls and introduced ourselves, discussed ice climbing safety (helmets, communication, expectations), and shared more about our experience and goals for the day. Many of the participants were beginners to ice climbing, while others were more seasoned. We moved up to Lost in the Forest and began with a recap of belaying skills and introduction to basic ice movement, which included tool placement, footwork, and body positioning. Group members took turns climbing and belaying on four different routes up to WI3. Some of the group later moved over to climb the 100-foot Walk in the Forest flow, which goes at WI3+. A safe, happy, and climb-y day was had by all, with new and renewed excitement for ice climbing.
Photos: Conor Rafferty, Parker Eason, Kayla Boisvert
