Experience a full day of ice climbing on the starkly beautiful ice falls of Colorado's central mountains. All technical gear is provided. This course is designed for novice adventurers seeking a structured day of learning and fun out on the ice. Instead of simply sending you up on a top rope, our certified guides progress the group through a curriculum designed to give participants the knowledge and skills required to navigate the often intimidating activity of ice climbing. You will leave with a foundation of outdoor ice climbing skills after plenty of time actually climbing.

3 student minimum needed to run the course

In this course, climbers will learn & practice the following:

• Proper fit and function of all personal climbing gear, including harnesses, crampons, and helmets
• Efficient use of ice tools
• Efficient climbing techniques to move gracefully over ice
• Several knots and hitches involved in the climbing system
• Belay techniques to keep both climber and belayer safe
• Setup and rappelling yourself from the top of the fall
• Climbing communication
• A sense of stewardship for open spaces
• Awareness of avalanche risk and its mitigation

We will meet at the CAG office or a convenient rendezvous point, gear up and hike out to the field. Meeting time is 8AM. We will spend the day in field instruction where we turn the winter backcountry into an experiential classroom where you will learn and practice your new climbing skills.

Trip Package Includes

• CAG professional climbing guide (5:1 maximum guide to student ratio)
• All climbing equipment
• Transportation from designated meeting place to the trailhead
• A safe, fun, and educational experience

Trip Package Does Not Include

• Lodging
• Clothing for winter weather conditions - bring layers
• Insurance (trip or rescue)
• Instructor gratuity
• Snacks or beverages

Area Info

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Colorado Adventure Guides is permitted to operate in a variety of terrain near Breckenridge and several adjacent counties, which allows us to access a variety of zones for courses. Typically we confirm our destinations about two weeks before the actual course to make sure we have the most appropriate terrain for the course.

About Your Guides

Colorado Adventure Guides, based in Silverthorne, CO, delivers four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts. Our all-season, guided operations include:

• Rock Climbing
• Mountaineering
• Hiking/Peak Ascents
• Mountain Biking
• Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
• Backcountry Skiing
• Backcountry Splitboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Ice Climbing
• AIARE Snow Safety Courses

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors for over 25 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

FAQs

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Are there any prerequisites to participate in this course?

No experience necessary. We have climbs for kids, families, and climbers of varying experience levels. Those with previous experience are welcome too.

How physically fit do I need to be to participate in this course?

Colorado Adventure Guides priority is keeping our patrons and students safe. Our guides and instructors are trained to recognize potentially hazardous situations in the backcountry; they plan and operate accordingly. Your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness, thus it’s recommended that you are in good physical condition.

When and how do I meet up with our instructor?

Your instructor will contact you at least 48 hours prior to your activity start date to finalize details regarding meeting location and time.

What should I bring?

We supply all climbing gear. You should bring water, food, snacks, sunglasses, waterproof and several warm layers, and a backpack to hold it all. Consider hot beverages!

Should we tip our instructor?

Your guide/instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.