Conquer Colorado’s Backcountry Ice Climbing in Ouray & Telluride
Venture into Colorado’s winter wilderness with Mountain Trip’s backcountry ice climbing tours near Ouray and Telluride. Expert guides, custom routes, and pristine frozen walls create a true alpine challenge for all skill levels.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear layered clothing
Dress in moisture-wicking and insulating layers to manage changing temperatures during climbs.
Bring sturdy waterproof boots
Proper footwear with good ankle support and compatibility with crampons is critical.
Stay hydrated
Even in cold conditions, keep up water intake to maintain energy and focus on the ice.
Follow guide instructions closely
Experience and safety depend on listening carefully to your certified guide’s briefings and tips.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ice cascades near Yankee Boy Basin
- •Remote frozen waterfalls accessible via Silverton trails
Wildlife
- •Mountain goats
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
Mountain Trip emphasizes minimal impact guiding practices to protect fragile alpine ecosystems and ice formations.
Ouray and Telluride grew from mining boomtowns into outdoor hubs, with a deep-rooted alpine heritage shaping local culture.
Photographer's Notes
- • Base of ice flows for close-up action shots
- • Summit points for panoramic mountain vistas
- • Forested trail approaches for context and depth
What to Bring
Mountaineering bootsEssential
Designed to attach crampons and provide insulation against cold and moisture.
Technical ice climbing glovesEssential
Protect hands while allowing dexterity to grip ice tools.
Layered thermal clothingEssential
Crucial for regulating body temperature in shifting mountain weather.
HelmetEssential
Protects head from falling ice and accidental impacts during climbs.
Common Questions
Do I need prior climbing experience?
No prior ice climbing experience is necessary; guides tailor instruction to your skill level.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 12 years old and physically capable of the climb.
Is technical gear provided?
Yes, Mountain Trip supplies all essential ice climbing equipment including boots, crampons, tools, harness, and helmet.
What time of year is best for this adventure?
Winter months, typically December through early March, offer optimal ice conditions.
How physically demanding is the climb?
The tour requires moderate fitness with endurance for sustained climbing and hiking on ice.
What happens if weather conditions deteriorate?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for safety if weather or ice conditions are unsafe.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Ouray, Colorado
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate to good physical fitness and endurance for sustained effort on ice-covered terrain.
Ready to Explore Ouray?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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