Michigan Ice Fest Concludes in Munising

Annual winter climbing event draws experienced and novice climbers to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Michigan Ice Fest, a multi-day winter climbing festival held in Munising, Michigan, concluded on Sunday after beginning on Wednesday. The event brought together experienced and novice ice climbers to enjoy the ice formations around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, using specialized equipment like ice axes and crampons to scale the frozen surfaces.

Why it matters

The Michigan Ice Fest is an annual tradition that highlights the unique ice climbing opportunities in the Munising area, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from across the region to experience the sport and community. As climate change impacts winter conditions, events like the Ice Fest help promote appreciation for the area's natural assets and the adventurous spirit of its residents.

The details

Climbers used ice axes and crampons to gain purchase on the constantly changing ice formations, taking advantage of ledges and natural indentations to aid their ascent. Warmer temperatures on the final day actually made the ice conditions more favorable, with the tools sticking better in the slightly softer ice. Participants emphasized the sense of community and camaraderie at the event, with veteran climbers offering advice and gear to newcomers.

  • The Michigan Ice Fest began on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • The festival concluded on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Jenn Best

An experienced ice climber who has attended the Michigan Ice Fest for many years, highlighting the constantly changing nature of the ice formations and the supportive community.

Kade Schiltz

An ice climber who noted that the warmer temperatures on the final day made the ice conditions more favorable for using their specialized tools.

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What they’re saying

“It's always a little bit different of a creature and it makes it a little bit more challenging, you know, different nodules that have formed over night or whatever. So, it's new and different and fresh.”

— Jenn Best, Ice Climber (uppermichiganssource.com)

“Your tools like really stick in there when the ice is a little softer. It's definitely wet, we are getting rained on quite a bit, and a little drenched. But that all adds to the fun, that's part of the experience.”

— Kade Schiltz, Ice Climber (uppermichiganssource.com)

What’s next

The Michigan Ice Fest is an annual event, so the next edition is expected to take place in February 2027 in Munising.

The takeaway

The Michigan Ice Fest showcases the unique ice climbing opportunities in the Munising area, fostering a supportive community of outdoor enthusiasts and promoting appreciation for the region's natural assets even as climate change impacts winter conditions.