Discovering the Unconventional Beauty of Utah’s Pricecicle

The Pricecicle: An Ice Climber’s Dilemma

When you think of ice climbing, the pristine frozen waterfalls of Colorado may come to mind. However, for climbers seeking a unique experience, Utah’s Pricecicle offers an intriguing alternative. This 60-foot ice pillar, located conveniently off Highway 6, presents not only a challenging climb but also a remarkable blend of urban and natural eccentricities.

A Bold Climb in Challenging Conditions

As the winter of 2024 approached, my husband Casey and I, alongside our friends Vicki and Adam, made the decision to embark on a two-hour drive from Park City to the Pricecicle. Despite a series of unseasonably warm temperatures influencing ice formation across the region, we aimed to seize the opportunity. With traditional climbing spots like Provo Canyon and Maple Canyon falling short of expectations, the Pricecicle stood out as our best option, despite its offbeat reputation.

The Quirckiness of the Pricecicle Experience

What makes the Pricecicle so unique? In addition to the climb itself, the area is surrounded by graffiti-adorned structures and observers who stop by for a peek or a selfie. The route has been the subject of amusing debates among climbers on platforms like Mountain Project, offering a glimpse into the quirky culture surrounding this climbing spot. Surrounded by various urban distractions, this pillar provides a somewhat dystopian adventure.

Awe-Inspiring Conditions Despite the Odds

Contrary to earlier assumptions about its condition, the Pricecicle offered a surprisingly solid climb. Feedback from fellow climbers indicated that it wasn’t as unappealing as its reputation suggested. We discovered that the ice was thick and the weather remarkably agreeable. The climb was only a brief 90-second walk from the highway pullout, making it highly accessible for climbers with limited time.

Community and Camaraderie

Upon arriving, we encountered a fellow climber who swiftly established rapport, inquiring about our preferences for which side of the pillar to tackle. This friendly exchange exemplified the supportive climbing community that thrives even in the most unexpected locales. Although the cold temperatures demanded extra layers, the camaraderie shared among climbers served to warm the atmosphere around the Pricecicle.

A Social Media Moment

As the day concluded, a delightful twist of fate unfolded. While heading back to our vehicle, Vicki noticed that the climber from the Tacoma had shared a photo of Adam in real-time on social media. This unexpected digital souvenir marked a closure to our day of adventure, encapsulating the shared spirit found within this unconventional ice climbing destination.

Embracing the Pricecicle’s Oddities

While the Pricecicle’s environment and urban backdrop might categorize it as unconventional—and perhaps even dystopian—its presence is a testament to ice climbing’s resilience in a changing climate. For Utah climbers, where access to ice is diminishing, the Pricecicle serves as a valuable asset. As a wise climber once remarked, “Ice is too rare to be picky,” reminding us to cherish these fleeting opportunities in the face of climatic challenges.