Colorado Ice Climbing
Overview
Front Range Ice Climbing in Colorado
Guided Ice Climbing Adventures for All Skill Levels
The Front Range of Colorado offers some of the most accessible and exciting ice climbing in North America. From first-time climbers looking to swing tools for the first time to experienced alpinists seeking steep, technical lines, the Front Range delivers a wide range of ice climbing opportunities—all within reach of Denver and the I-70 corridor.
With The Mountain Guides Colorado, our guided ice climbing trips are tailored to your experience level, goals, and conditions, ensuring a safe, rewarding, and memorable day on the ice.
Ice Climbing Options
Beginner Ice Climbing
New to ice climbing? Our beginner ice climbing trips and courses provide a supportive introduction to the sport.
You’ll learn:
- Fundamental ice climbing movement and tool placement
- Proper use of ice tools, crampons, and helmets
- Belay systems and basic rope management
- Essential safety practices and risk awareness
Beginner outings take place on moderately angled, easily accessible ice, creating an ideal environment to build confidence and foundational skills.
Intermediate Ice Climbing
For climbers ready to progress, intermediate ice climbing focuses on refining technique and tackling more complex terrain.
These trips emphasize:
- Improved efficiency on steeper ice
- Footwork and tool technique refinement
- Route selection and movement strategy
- Expanding comfort in varied ice conditions
The Front Range offers diverse ice formations perfect for climbers looking to move beyond the basics and build technical proficiency.
Advanced Ice Climbing
Experienced climbers seeking a challenge will find advanced ice climbing routes that test endurance, precision, and mental focus.
Advanced objectives may include:
- Steep and sustained ice lines
- More demanding conditions and exposure
- Complex movement and advanced techniques
Our experienced guides manage risk while helping you push your limits on some of the Front Range’s most formidable ice climbs.
Equipment & Safety
Safety is our top priority on every ice climbing trip.
- All guided trips typically include technical equipment, such as ice tools, crampons, and helmets
- Guides provide instruction on proper equipment use and fit
- Risk management, communication, and hazard awareness are emphasized throughout the day
Whether it’s your first swing or your fiftieth, our guides create an environment where learning and safety go hand in hand.
Why Climb with The Mountain Guides Colorado
- Professional, experienced ice climbing guides
- Trips tailored to beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbers
- High-quality instruction focused on skill progression
- Access to premier Front Range ice climbing locations
- Emphasis on safety, efficiency, and fun
Ready to Climb Ice in Colorado?
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an introduction or an advanced climber chasing your next challenge, Front Range Ice Climbing with The Mountain Guides Colorado delivers an unforgettable winter adventure.
Locations:
Clear Creek Canyon, Golden CO
Hidden Falls, RMNP
Embarking on a single pitch ice climbing guided trip offers an ideal introduction or focused experience for climbers seeking a shorter yet exhilarating adventure. This type of guided trip typically involves ascending a single, well-defined ice pitch, allowing participants to concentrate on refining their ice climbing skills in a condensed timeframe.
Guides provide essential instruction on technique, equipment usage, and safety measures, making it an accessible option for both beginners and those with some climbing experience. The concentrated nature of a single pitch allows climbers to hone specific skills, such as efficient ice tool placement and movement on vertical ice.
These trips are often tailored to the participants’ skill levels, ensuring a challenging yet manageable ascent. The intimacy of a single pitch setting fosters a close-knit learning environment, with guides offering personalized feedback and support throughout the climb.
Whether you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of ice climbing or seeking a focused session to enhance your skills, a single pitch ice climbing guided trip provides a rewarding and efficient way to experience the thrill of vertical ice in the stunning landscapes of the Front Range of Colorado.
Multi-Pitch/Alpine Ice Level 1
ex.) The Squid, Jaws, The Crypt, Black Lake, All Mixed Up, West Gully, Alexanders Chimney, Marthas
Multi Pitch/Alpine Ice Level 2
ex.) Notch Couloir, East Face Longs
Embarking on a multi-pitch ice climbing guided trip provides climbers with a dynamic and comprehensive experience, allowing them to ascend a series of pitches with the guidance of seasoned professionals. Guides play a pivotal role in selecting routes that cater to varying skill levels, ensuring participants encounter a diverse range of ice formations. This type of guided trip is particularly beneficial for intermediate and advanced climbers, offering opportunities to refine technical skills, master rope management, and build confidence in tackling longer and more intricate ice routes.
An alpine ice climbing guided trip is a thrilling adventure that takes climbers into high-altitude, remote environments, blending the challenges of ice climbing with the demands of alpine terrain. Led by experienced guides, participants navigate a mix of ice, rock, and snow, honing their skills in a truly immersive setting. These guided trips are ideal for seasoned climbers seeking a unique and physically demanding experience. Guides provide crucial insights into alpine navigation, route finding, and safety protocols, ensuring participants are well-prepared for the diverse challenges presented by alpine ice climbing. The combination of technical climbing and alpine skills makes this type of guided trip a rewarding and unforgettable journey for those seeking a higher level of adventure.
Single Pitch Ice $545* 1 person, $345* 2 people, $285* 3+ people
RMNP Multi Pitch/Alpine Ice Level 1 $665* 1 person, $525* 2 people, $445
RMNP Multi Pitch/Alpine Ice Level 2 $845* 1 person, $595* 2 people
Overnight $110* 1 person, $85* 2 people, $70* 3 people*
Price per person, per day, per night.
Ask about our discounted “Speed Bivy” option for overnight trips. (Previous multi pitch climbing experience required)
Be prepared to be out moving around in cold temperatures. Wear clothing made out of synthetic materials or natural products made such as wool or down. Cotton products are not acceptable. Clothing should be able to layer without encumbering your movement. If choosing down it must be kept dry.
UPPER LAYERS
- Top Long Sleeve Synthetic or Wool: medium to expedition weight long underwear
- Puffy Jacket: synthetic light weight down Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Jacket
- Soft Shell or Fleece Jacket Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear A-therm Jacket
- Shell Jacket with hood. Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Cloudseeker Jacket
- Insulated Jacket– Hood Recommended. Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Supercharger Jacket
BOTTOM LAYERS
- Bottom Synthetic or Wool Long Underwear Bottoms. Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear 32 Degree Not So Tight
- Shell Pant: full side zips and built-in gaiters Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Firefall Pants
- Socks: Synthetic or wool. Sized for your boots and blister protection. Liners recommended.
HEAD AND HANDS
- Gloves 3 pair: 1 light, 1 medium, 1 heavy pair Guide Pick: Cyclone Glove
- Hat: medium weight that will fit under a helmet
- Buff/neck gaiter
FOOTWEAR (Can be rented in Cody from Sunlight Sports. Please contact us to inquire about sizing)
- Boots – Should be rigid/step-in compatible, well insulated and plastic or hybrid. Boot should be specific for climbing ice
- Gaiters – Tall
- Crampons – Rigid with appropriate front points
TECHNICAL ICE CLIMBING EQUIPMENT – If climbing in Cody, you will be responsible for providing your own technical ice climbing equipment. If you do not have an item/items on this list, please contact the office with enough time for us to arrange something for you.
- 2 Technical Ice Hammers (No Adzes)
- 2 Ice Hammer Leashes
- Harness
- Belay device
- 2 locking caribiners
- Helmet
ACCESSORIES
- Back Pack: 30 to 40 Liter ski pack, Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Scrambler 35 Outdry Pack
- Water & Food: Thermos or insulated water bottles are best. Lot’s of snacks.
- Sunglasses/ Sunglass Case
- Ski Goggles
- Extra Prescription Glasses/Contact Lens
- Sunscreen/Lip balm
- Headlamp-Extra batteries