Michigan 2020 Ice Fest takes climbers to new heights

Climbing ice in bitter cold temperatures requires a lot of strength, courage and the ability to still have fun despite how challenging the adventure is.

"It's been tough getting up and down, but we'll get used to it,” said Suleyka Abdi, an ice climber from Minneapolis and member of the Big City Mountaineers.

"It's a really positive experience and I get to learn so much and meet so many new people,” said Maija Fox, an ice climber from Marquette.

Fox and the other girls behind her are a part of the Pictured Rocks Climbing Academy.

"We get out climbing earlier in the season and we try to get used to climbing,” explained Fox.

This way the students know what to expect before going to Ice Fest, and can quickly advance as a group, not only in the ice climbing world but also when bonding together and bringing new people in to join.

"We get a lot of advice on how to get new members and how to become closer to each other,” said Fox.

Meantime, the Big City Mountaineers from Minneapolis, Minnesota says their experience is all about trying something new.

"Since we came here, we know that outside is very adventurous place and we want to come outside more,” said Sadika Abdi, an ice climber from Minneapolis and member of the Big City Mountaineers.

This is the girls first time ice climbing and visiting Michigan. They say it's been an experience they won't forget and hope to return soon.

"Michigan people are very nice. They're very helpful, and I like it here,” said Nimo Mohamed, an ice climber from Minneapolis and member of the Big City Mountaineers.

Organizers ended Saturday by thanking the more than 1200 people who came from 30 different states and 7 different countries to support their 29th year.