Backcountry Ice Climbing in the San Juans: Ouray and Telluride with Mountain Trip
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7–9 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable hiking 3–5 miles with 500–1,500 ft of gain at 8,000–11,000 ft and swinging tools for multiple pitches.
Overview
Swing tools into blue ice above Telluride and Ouray with Mountain Trip’s AMGA-certified guides. This full-day backcountry outing blends tailored instruction, steep winter scenery, and the storied mining history of the San Juans—all with technical gear provided.
Backcountry Ice Climbing in the San Juans: Ouray and Telluride with Mountain Trip
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Dawn lifts over the San Juans and the cold has a voice of its own—ice cracks, snow squeaks, and the gullies above Telluride and Ouray breathe steam into the blue morning. Crampons bite. Tools ring. A ribbon of frozen water dares you upward while the peaks lean in, watching. This is backcountry ice climbing with Mountain Trip, where a full day outside the ropes course of the resort means real movement through winter terrain.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring multiple glove systems
Carry a thin liner, a climbing glove, and a warm belay mitt so you can swap as they get damp and keep hands functional.
Hydrate without freezing
Use an insulated bottle or thermos—hoses can freeze solid at single-digit temps; sip early and often at altitude.
Trust avalanche-smart travel
Approaches may cross avalanche terrain; your guide manages route choice and spacing—follow instructions precisely.
Footwork first
Keep heels low, kick with control, and place tools once with intent to save energy on longer pitches.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
- American dipper
History
Telluride’s Ames Power Plant transmitted the world’s first long-distance AC power in 1891, fueling the region’s mining era that left the cliff-side ruins and tram towers you’ll spot today.
Conservation
Ice climbs are seasonal and fragile—avoid chipping unnecessary steps, pack out all waste, and respect wildlife wintering closures and avalanche control areas.
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Adventure Hotspots in Telluride, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated belay parka
A big puffy traps heat at shady belays and keeps your core warm between burns.
winter specific
Waterproof hardshell jacket and pants
Windproof, snow-shedding layers block spindrift and keep you dry on dripping ice.
winter specific
Multiple pairs of insulated gloves
Rotating gloves prevents numb fingers when one pair gets wet from ice and snow.
winter specific
1L thermos with a hot drink
Warm fluids help maintain energy and morale during long, cold days.
winter specific