Dominic Casserly

One of the best ice climbing "schoolrooms" is the box canyon of Champney Falls.

Dominic Casserly

A climber ascending a "mixed climb." Mixed climbing includes not only using the tools to climb ice, but also thin rock features like cracks that are too small for a climber's fingers or hands to grip.

Dominic Casserly

A group of climbers watch a guide lead a climb at Champney Falls. By leading the climb, the guide can set up a "top rope" so the others can climb safely without the risk of falling a great distance.

Dominic Casserly

Climbers top-rope at Champney Falls, a popular practice area off the idyllic Kancamagus Highway.

Dominic Casserly

Secure ice tool placements are essential for safe and successful ice climbing.

Dominic Casserly

Crampons, which are toothed platforms that attach to a climber's boots, allow upward movement on ice that would otherwise not be possible.

Dominic Casserly

A climber ascends a seventy-five foot pillar at Champney Falls.

Dominic Casserly

A climber practices technique on the North End Slabs of Cathedral Ledge, near North Conway, N.H.