Moulins climbing day

Step into a surreal world of ice and water with our Ice Climbing in Glacier Mills adventure, where you'll explore one of nature’s most mesmerizing formations—glacier mills, also known as moulins. These naturally carved vertical shafts and tunnels form within glaciers as meltwater from the surface bores deep into the ice. This trip combines the thrill of ice climbing with the unique experience of exploring these hidden ice formations, creating a perfect challenge for adventurous souls eager to push their limits.

Glacier mills are cylindrical, vertical shafts formed by meltwater that spirals down through the ice, carving dramatic tunnels. These ice formations are created by the forces of nature, making them ideal for ice climbing. The smooth, sculpted walls of blue ice offer a visually stunning yet physically demanding environment, giving climbers a chance to experience glaciers from the inside.

The adventure begins with a glacier trek, where you’ll hike across the glacier, surrounded by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Your guide will lead you to a series of glacier mills, carefully chosen based on current conditions and your group’s skill level. Along the way, you’ll learn about the glacier’s formation, the processes that shape these impressive ice structures, and the geology of the region.

Upon reaching the glacier mills, your true adventure begins. Glacier mills are naturally formed vertical tunnels that offer thrilling, steep climbs. Standing at the edge of a glacier mill, you’ll be able to see deep into the glacier as the bright blue ice walls stretch downwards into the darkness. As the sunlight filters through the translucent ice, the beauty and intensity of the environment become even more striking.

Your guide will anchor the climbing ropes and set up safe routes within the mills, and you’ll begin your ascent using ice axes and crampons. Climbing inside the glacier’s deep shafts, you’ll feel the unique texture of the ice beneath your hands and feet. Each swing of the ice axe and kick of the crampons will drive you further up the smooth, frozen walls. The sound of ice tools striking the surface, combined with the echo of water trickling through the glacier, creates a surreal atmosphere as you scale these vertical ice formations.

For beginners, the focus will be on mastering the basics of ice climbing, including proper techniques for ascending vertical ice and using the tools efficiently. More experienced climbers will be challenged with steeper, more technical routes, allowing them to push their skills further in this demanding environment. Regardless of your experience level, this trip is carefully designed to offer a safe yet thrilling experience, with personalized guidance from expert instructors.

The most extraordinary part of this trip is the chance to explore the glacier from within. Climbing deep inside the glacier mills gives you a rare, up-close view of the stunning blue ice formations that have been shaped over centuries. The light that filters through the glacier creates a magical ambiance, turning the walls into a striking mix of blue and white, with layers of frozen time visible in the translucent ice.

As you climb, you’ll also have the chance to rest at various points within the mill, allowing you to take in the silence and beauty of the ice around you. The climb is physically demanding, but the reward is an experience few others get to enjoy—exploring the heart of a glacier, where ice, water, and time converge in one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Safety is the top priority on this trip. Our certified guides are highly trained and experienced in ice climbing, glacier travel, and rescue techniques. They will assess the glacier mills for safety before setting up climbing routes, ensuring that the ice is stable and conditions are suitable for a safe ascent. All participants will be given instruction on how to use the ice climbing equipment, and no prior ice climbing experience is necessary to join this adventure.

This Ice Climbing in Glacier Mills adventure is designed for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a first-time ice climber or have previous experience on the ice, this trip is tailored to your abilities. The adventure requires a good level of physical fitness, as the climbs can be steep and challenging, but our guides are skilled at adjusting the pace and difficulty to match your group’s experience.

Book Your Ice Climbing Adventure in Glacier Mills Today If you’re looking for an unforgettable ice climbing experience that combines adventure, beauty, and the thrill of exploring glaciers from within, our Ice Climbing in Glacier Mills is the perfect trip. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced climber, this full-day adventure offers the chance to conquer the unique vertical ice formations of glacier mills in one of the world’s most stunning natural settings. Join us for the ultimate ice climbing experience in Iceland’s incredible glacial wilderness.

Duration: 5-6h

Age min: 16 years

Group size: 1-2 max

Availability: all year round

Meet on location: from the Road N1 between Skógafoss and Vik (South of Iceland), take the turn into the 221 and follow for few Km (4-5) to get to the parking lot.

Price: from 60.000ISK per person