Discover Colorado’s rugged ice formations with expert-guided climbs in the San Juans. Perfect for all skill levels, these trips combine adventure, stunning scenery, and expert coaching in an unforgettable winter setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6-8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, capable of sustained climbing and rappelling.
Wildlife
History
The San Juan Mountains have a long history of mining, which shaped the rugged terrain and open spaces enjoyed today.
Conservation
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the pristine beauty of Colorado’s wilderness remains unspoiled for future climbers.
Colorado Climbing Company
Discover Colorado’s rugged ice formations with expert-guided climbs in the San Juans. Perfect for all skill levels, these trips combine adventure, stunning scenery, and expert coaching in an unforgettable winter setting.
Colorado Climbing Company runs guided climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and backcountry skiing trips and instructional courses across Colorado and in select national parks. The company’s offerings include introductory classes like Introduction to Rock Climbing and Gym to Crag, technical courses such as Learn to Lead Sport Climb Outdoors and Learn to Lead Traditional Climbs, and advanced seminars including Steep Ice and Mixed Technique and Climbing 301 — Climbing Big Things.
Trips span diverse Colorado areas and beyond, with options in Rocky Mountain National Park, Silverton, Lake City, Ouray, Denver/Golden, Boulder/Estes Park, Telluride, Gunnison, Grand Junction, and San Juan ranges. Seasonal programming covers ice climbing at venues like Lake City Ice Park and guided backcountry ski and splitboard touring in Silverton and the Alpine Loop near Lake City. Offerings range from half-day guided ice climbs to multi-day alpine ascents and expedition preparation courses.
Participants can choose guided experiences or technical instruction tailored to levels from beginner to advanced. Course titles and guided day trips reflect explicit instruction and guided formats, including avalanche and glacier-focused topics such as Crevasse Rescue and Glacier Travel and Private Custom Avalanche Instructions. Colorado Climbing Company presents a wide catalog of site-specific classic climbs, ski descents, and intensive seminars to support skill development and safe mountain travel.
Locations
Statewide (CO)
From Front Range to San Juans
Activities
Climbing & Skiing
Rock, ice, alpine, backcountry
Trip Types
Guided & Courses
Half-day to multi-day options
Availability
Year-round
Seasonal ice and snow offerings
Choose a course or guided trip across Colorado — from half-day climbs to multi-day alpine and backcountry adventures. Reserve a date to secure an experienced guided format.
Dress in layers
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear to stay warm and dry.
Check weather conditions
Ensure clear weather for safety and optimal ice conditions before heading out.
Communicate clearly
Maintain constant communication with your guide for safe and effective climbing.
Bring extra gear
Pack spare gloves and thermal socks in case your gear gets wet or cold.
Climbing Helmet
Protects your head from falling ice and debris.
winter
Insulated Climbing Boots
Keeps your feet warm and provides good grip on icy surfaces.
winter
Ice Axes
Helps with balance and cutting through thick ice.
winter
Crampons
Provides traction on icy surfaces for safety and efficiency.
winter