Discover the exhilaration of ice climbing in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains with experienced guides. Whether a novice or veteran, Lake City offers unforgettable frozen waterfall routes in a spectacular setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours per trip
Fitness Level
Participants should have good upper body strength and endurance, with prior experience helpful but not required.
Wildlife
History
Lake City has been a mining town since the late 1800s, and its rugged terrain has always attracted outdoor enthusiasts.
Conservation
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the pristine environment remains untouched for future climbers.
Colorado Climbing Company
Discover the exhilaration of ice climbing in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains with experienced guides. Whether a novice or veteran, Lake City offers unforgettable frozen waterfall routes in a spectacular 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 insulation to stay warm and dry on the ice.
Check Ice Conditions
Ensure ice is stable and safe before climbing; consult with guides for current conditions.
Bring Headlamp
Shorter daylight hours mean you may need extra light for those early or late climbs.
Plan for Cold Weather Gear
Use thermal gloves and face protection to prevent frostbite during extended climbs.
Climbing Helmets
Protect your head from falling ice and bumps during climbs.
winter
Ice Climbing Crampons
Provide traction on icy surfaces for safety and efficiency.
winter
Insulated Climbing Boots
Keep your feet warm and dry in freezing conditions.
winter
Climbing Harness
Securely attach yourself to ropes for safety on ice routes.
winter