The MWV Ice Fest crew is excited to announce the return of Josh Wharton as a guest guide!  It’s been a few years since we last saw him in New Hampshire, but we are stoked to welcome him back!04jan2016_cairn-gorm001

I don’t think a climber like Josh needs much of an introduction, but if you don’t know anything about him – here’s a little to blow your mind.  He is a Patagonia, Black Diamond, and Scarpa athlete that is probably best known for his big mountain accolades and for establishing huge routes like the Azeem Ridge (2,256m, 5.11R/X A2 M6; Great Trango Tower) and The Flame (VI 5.10+X A3 M5 AI4; Shipton Spire) in Pakistan.  Outside of the Trango Valley, you can find his name on big mountains from Alaska to Patagonia.  Aside from his major alpine climbing accomplishments, Josh has won the Ouray Mixed Climbing Competition three times, climbed over 80 routes in Colorado’s Black Canyon (including a one day free ascent of the Hallucinogen Wall), and ticked over 300 5.13 rock routes.  New England folk will also enjoy knowing that Josh grew up in New Hampshire, and cut his teeth climbing at classic northeast crags like Pawtuckaway and the North Conway cliffs.2017-01-06_0001

Here’s what Josh will be guiding at this year’s MWV Ice Fest –

Friday – Outdoor Research’s Mixed Climbing 101 with Bayard Russell

Saturday – Outdoor Research’s Mixed Climbing 101 with Bob Baribeau

Sunday – Outdoor Research’s Steep Ice Skills with Jim Shimberg

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a clinic taught by such an amazing and accomplished climber, and an awesome dude!

Welcome back Josh!