Jen Grimes

Jen Stewart-Grimes started climbing 13 years ago during college while studying geology and studio arts. She went on to teach climbing while attending the University of Minnesota in Duluth graduate school for geology.

Ice climbing began as a way for her to combat the dreary winters of northern Minnesota. Surprisingly, Minnesota ice climbing provided varied, albeit short climbing, making for an excellent learning ground.

After realizing that a career in geology was not for her, Jen became involved in the Outdoor Industry. Now, most of her time is spent, literally, living in a truck with her husband and two dogs.

The Midwest is the territory where they work as independent sales representatives selling climbing gear and clothing.

In 1997 Jen got invited to join the competitors at the Ouray Ice fest and won first place, and she has participated in the climbing exhibitions there ever since. Jen was also a participant in the 1998 X-games and came away with a bronze medal.

Teaching women is a priority for Jen and this year she is participating in multiple Ice Fests, in order to share her skills with women in the Midwest. Jen also has secret passions for knitting, chocolate and good books. Ok, maybe the chocolate part isn’t so secret.