Ice climbing up a frozen waterfall is a unique way to take in Colorado’s world-famous backcountry. This sport, once an essential part of rock climbing, offers stunning new outdoor challenges to overcome, as well as some great photo opportunities. Taking on your first waterfall is without a doubt a spine-chilling moment. However, once you become acquainted with your ice tools, pick up the rhythm, and get into the flow of things, you’ll find it to be one of the most thrilling and thoroughly enjoyable backcountry experiences you can have. The Rio Grande Trail near Aspen is the perfect place to get acquainted with the fundamentals—and once you graduate from Aspen’s scenic beginner-friendly climbs, you can head right to Redstone’s soaring sandstone cliffs and push yourself on some classic routes, such as the Avocado Gully, Marble Falls, and The Drool. From WI 2 to WI 5, and M2 to M10, rim to canyon, most routes have easy access and are just minutes from the car. There’s no right or wrong way to experience Aspen, but climbing breathtaking waterfalls might just be the most interesting one!
Experience Aspen’s backcountry in a novel and refreshing way
Take on Redstone’s challenging and infinitely rewarding objectives
Master the art of ice climbing in Aspen’s world-renowned wilderness
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Aspen and Redstone, Colorado, please refer to Colorado’s COVID-19 travel guidelines.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
Ice climbing requires overhead strength to swing an ice tool as well as core-strength to stabilize while you swing and move upward. It also requires good leg strength and endurance, especially in your calves.
The strength needed for climbing ice and mixed terrain can be broken down into core strength, upper-body strength, and general endurance. There isn’t much aerobic demand in this sport. It is recommended that you work on your strength and endurance by working out in the gym or by rock climbing.
This ice climbing tour is a unique and fun adventure that requires no prior experience. If you’re a beginner, your guide will introduce you to two-tool ice climbing techniques, and you’ll spend the day gaining a basic understanding of safety measures, tool placement, body positioning, belaying, and proper lowering techniques. Your guide will contact you the day before the tour to discuss your current skill level and choose the appropriate terrain for your climb.
Here’s what you’ll need:
All technical ice climbing equipment including boots, ice crampons, harness, helmet, etc. will be provided by your guide. They will contact you the day before the tour to make arrangements.
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
Ice climbing in Aspen and Redstone can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Aspen, CO, most people fly into Denver International Airport 4 hours away. From there, you can take a local flight, rent a car, or take a bus or shuttle service.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, usually at the guide shop in Aspen Highlands Village. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
