Here’s a shout out to a few of Ice Fest’s hometown heros – the guides of International Mountain Climbing School. These guys have spent countless days out in our local mountains both personally and professionally. They are as dialed as they come, and are experts in all things winter – from the nitty-gritty of international expeditions to steep ice, and even snow kiting, these guys know it all.
DMM athlete, Sam Bendroth, is known around town for his endless psych and passion for climbing. He just returned from a 2-month roadtrip out west, and the minute he arrived back in North Conway, his boots were laced up and he was ready to get back out on his home turf. He has been on more trips than we can count, and has put up big first ascents in Canada and Chile.
Paul McCoy came to North Conway in 2002, inspired by the mountains and their limitless playgrounds. Whether it has been tied in to a rope, or clicked into a pair of skis, he has explored every nook and cranny of these hills. His experience isn’t limited to New Hampshire though – Paul has climbed extensively throughout the American West, as well as in New Zealand, Australia, and Spain. In 2008, he started guiding with IMCS, and has been a staple to the scene ever sense.
Zebulon Jakub is known for his fascination with the technical components of climbing. The dude is a treasure trove of information, and in an alternate universe, he probably exists as a brilliant engineer! In addition to being a stellar skier and climber, he is also a super experienced paraglider and snow kiter. Go pick his brain at his Intro to Snow Kiting clinic at this year’s Ice Fest!
