Experience the thrill of vertical ice in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains with guided routes designed for all skill levels. Discover why Silverton is a top winter adventure destination.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Climbers should have strong core strength, stamina, and experience with basic climbing techniques.
Wildlife
History
Silverton’s mining history dates back to the late 1800s, with many old tunnels and structures still visible near climbing areas.
Conservation
Guides emphasize minimal impact practices, ensuring that the fragile winter environment remains pristine for future climbers.
Colorado Climbing Company
Experience the thrill of vertical ice in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains with guided routes designed for all skill levels. Discover why Silverton is a top winter adventure destination.
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, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells to stay comfortable.
Check weather conditions
Always review the forecast before your trip to avoid dangerous icy conditions or storms.
Bring appropriate footwear
Wear insulated, waterproof boots compatible with crampons for safe and efficient climbing.
Stay hydrated and nourished
Cold weather can be dehydrating; carry water and high-energy snacks for stamina.
Crampons
Necessary for traction on icy surfaces.
winter
Climbing harness
Provides safety and security during ascents.
winter
Warm layered clothing
Keeps you warm and adaptable to changing conditions.
winter
Ice axes
Used for gripping and ascending icy waterfalls.
winter