It’s difficult to dream up a more incredible summer climbing paradise land than Lander, Wyoming.

Not only does it boast seemingly limitless limestone crags with pocket-pulling routes and grades of every sort, as well as an amplitude of pristine granite bouldering for those who prefer pads to ropes, but Lander also offers access to the Wind River Range—an alpine climber’s dream land of secluded peaks, several of which stem over 13,000 feet.

On the approach trail at Wild Iris. Photo: Natalie Siddique

On the approach trail at Wild Iris. Photo: Natalie Siddique

Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range. Photo: Natalie Siddique

Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range. Photo: Natalie Siddique

Needless to say, there’s no way a climber could ever get bored here.

And while the amount of quality rock alone surrounding Lander is enough to draw in any one of us, perhaps what really makes this somewhat in the middle-of-nowhere destination most special, is how warmly the people of this wild west town welcome, celebrate, and embrace the rock climbers who come to visit.

… Which is exactly why you should make it your upmost priority this July to experience the magic that is the International Climbers’ Festival; easily one of the greatest climbing events ever.

international climbers festival

Drawing in a diverse group of passionate climbers from all over the country and the world to enjoy the glorious rocks of the area and to celebrate the best parts of climbing culture, the 2016 Festival, happening July 13-16, is primed to be another hit.

See our 2015 festival recap and check out this video from last year:

At this year’s event, participants can expect a new “Win the Festival” feats of strength contest, plenty of live music (Whiskey Shivers, DJ gUda, and Peculiar Patriots), an extended art crawl throughout the town, a wide array of athlete-led clinics, presentations from Steph Davis, Sam Elias, Sonnie Trotter, Matt Segal, Chelsea Rude, and Jon Cardwell, as well as loads of opportunities to win sweet prizes.

In case you need more convincing, you can explore the full schedule here.

Whether you come just for the days of the festival or plan an extended trip around the event, you won’t be disappointed with your trip to Lander and the camaraderie you’ll experience at the 23rd annual International Climbers’ Festival. With ample free camping in the area (even right in the City Park!), a stellar coffee shop to start your mornings in (Lander Bake Shop), and perhaps the coolest climber bar in the world to grab a beer (Lander Bar/Gannett Grill), this is a place you won’t want to leave fast.

And who knows? You might even end up doing what we did last year and stay in the amazing town of Lander, Wyoming for an entire summer.

 

Register for the 2016 ICF

Stoked and ready to get your tickets?

Experience the magic of Lander for yourself, by joining us and over 500 other climbers at the International Climbers’ Festival happening from July 13-16. Get your tickets here:

register

 

Related: Climbing Destination Guide: Lander, Wyoming

Athlete photos: courtesy of ICF