Looking for stable ice Sogndal Valley with Gustav

Variable conditions this week but me and Gustav managed to get some local ice climbing done. 

The quality of the ice was very variable. We found one safe line in between the ones spraying water! 

Oppdal Isklatring

Its the 1st of January 2017 and Im back in Norway. On the quest for cold conditions and easily accessible ice climbing myself and Sofia headed 6 hours north to Opdall for a Isklatring adventure!

The valley just south of Oppdal offers a variety of almost roadside ice routes perfect for getting some early season mileage under our belts. 

I don't have much experience climbing water ice as it can be pretty rare in Scotland. The method of movement is more systematic than winter mixed climbing and can feel quite eligent when you get it right.  keeping relaxed is key- made easier by planning ahead of yourself and getting speedy at placing screws for protection just before a harder section.

Sofia with very cold fingers.

Safety first, safety second.

We spend two chilly nights in the van, watching it turn to in ice box each morning. It felt weard to to sleeping comfortably only a short walk from the start of the next route.

Approaching our second route of the day, note to self: the ice always looks less steep than it actually is!

Just before it got tricky. at the top. The final vertical chimney confused me a little and i felt myself reverting back to mixed climbing tactics- not a good idea on ice. I felt a little relived and very exhilarated to pull myself over the top :)

sunset from the top of my pitch.  The stars were amazing!