Rjukan Icefestival 2025 in Norway

The Rjukan Ice Festival is a premier event for ice climbing enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a chance to experience Norway’s natural beauty and unique winter sports culture. This four-day festival combines world-class ice climbing, skill-building workshops, competitions, and social gatherings. Organized with the support of prominent outdoor brands such as Scarpa and Petzl, the festival takes place in Rjukan, a town famous for its frozen waterfalls and stunning alpine scenery.

Activities and Experiences

As the festival promises, participants will enjoy a diverse range of activities tailored to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers. Guided clinics are a cornerstone of the event, offering instruction on ice climbing techniques in small, skill-based groups. The festival also includes ski touring excursions on the iconic Gaustatoppen peak and an indoor climbing session at Gneis Lysaker in Oslo for an urban twist on adventure.

For those looking for a competitive edge, the speed climbing competition invites climbers of all levels to test their abilities. Additionally, attendees can engage with expert presentations, technical workshops, and product testing opportunities featuring gear from brands like Norrøna, Scarpa, and Petzl. Social events, including communal dinners and casual gatherings.

Program and Schedule

The festival spans four days, with a carefully curated itinerary designed to maximize both adventure and learning:

Day 1

The event kicks off at Norrøna House in Oslo with a welcome session, an indoor climbing activity, and a three-course dinner.

Day 2

Participants travel to Rjukan for a day of ice climbing clinics at the Krokan climbing site, followed by evening presentations and a group dinner.

Day 3

The schedule features more clinics and the signature speed climbing competition, accompanied by refreshments, hot drinks, and evening celebrations.

Day 4

The festival concludes with a final day of climbing or ski touring before participants return to Norrøna House for a farewell dinner.

Practical Information

Rjukan, situated in Telemark County, is conveniently located just a three-hour drive from Oslo. The town is renowned for its accessibility and its proximity to Gaustatoppen, Norway's most famous ski touring peak. There is ample parking available near the climbing sites and accommodations.

The all-inclusive package, priced at 15,000 Norwegian Krones, covers guided activities, accommodations, meals, and access to all festival events. The festival provides modern amenities, with accommodations at local hotels and event spaces like Rjukanhuset, ensuring comfort and relaxation after a day full of outdoor adventures.

History

Since its inception in 1993, the Rjukan Ice Festival has grown from a local climbing event to an internationally recognized gathering. Initially led by a regional climbing club, the festival has evolved to include partnerships with renowned outdoor brands, attracting climbers from around the globe. The addition of clinics, speed climbing competitions, and technical workshops over the years has expanded its appeal, making it a highlight of Norway’s winter sports calendar.