Is ice climbing suitable for beginners?

Absolutely, the guides tailor instruction for all experience levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable first climb.

What age is appropriate for this activity?

Participants typically need to be at least 12 years old, but age requirements may vary based on individual skill and fitness levels.

What should I wear during the climb?

Wear layered, moisture-wicking, and waterproof clothing suited for winter conditions, along with sturdy boots and gloves.

Can I rent gear if I don’t have my own?

Yes, the Colorado Climbing Company provides rental gear including crampons, ice axes, and helmets.

Ice Climbing in Colorado with Colorado Climbing Company

Q: What safety measures are in place?

Guides utilize top-quality gear, conduct thorough safety briefings, and closely monitor conditions to ensure your safety throughout the trip.

Nestled in the rugged San Juan Mountains of Colorado, Silverton offers an adrenaline-pumping ice climbing experience unlike any other. The Colorado Climbing Company leads visitors through towering frozen waterfalls and glacial ice formations that are both breathtaking and challenging. This half-day guided adventure is tailor-made for climbers of all levels, from those just starting out to seasoned mountaineers seeking their next fix. As you gear up, you'll learn essential techniques such as proper crampon use, ice axe handling, and safety procedures — all under the watchful eye of expert guides. The San Juan Mountains host some of the most reliable winter ice in the Rockies, featuring classic routes on dramatic ice columns carved by centuries of freezing and thawing. Participants can expect to ascend formations rising hundreds of feet, with the only sounds being the rhythmic crunch of crampons and the crackle of ice. Unique to this region are the vibrant, crystalline ice structures contrasting against dark volcanic rock, creating a stark and striking landscape. The area's rich history of mining and adventure culture adds a rugged charm to the experience. Silverton itself is a historic town, famous for its colorful past and proximity to wilderness areas teeming with wildlife. Wildlife sightings during excursions might include curious mule deer or wintering elk, keeping the experience rooted in Colorado’s wild heart. Conservation efforts by the Colorado Climbing Company emphasize Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these frozen wonders. Photographers will find golden hour the best for capturing the shimmering ice, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light transforms waterfalls into icy sculptures. Recommended gear includes crampons, ice axes, helmets, and layered clothing suited for winter conditions. FAQs clarify whether beginners can partake—yes, with instruction! — and what safety measures are in place. Located in Silverton, Colorado, this adventure offers a perfect blend of physical challenge and natural beauty, making it a highlight of Colorado’s winter sports scene.

Difficulty

Moderate.

Duration

6–8 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.

Wildlife

Ponderosa pine squirrels
Mountain bluebirds

History

Silverton's mining history dates back to the late 1800s, and many old shafts and buildings remain as a reminder of its rugged past.

Conservation

The company prioritizes minimizing environmental impact, encouraging participants to follow strict Leave No Trace practices during their adventure.

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.

Base locationSilverton, Colorado

Tours offered95+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace