Tucked away in the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado lie the picturesque mining towns of Ouray and Silverton. With a plethora of ice climbing routes, these towns will accommodate just about anyone looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure on quality frozen structures. Ouray is sometimes called “the Switzerland of America” thanks to its breathtaking alpine surroundings. With routes for all abilities, varying from single pitch roadside crags to jaw-dropping 1000 ft WI4 routes and challenging mixed climbing test-pieces, Ouray is the perfect ice climbing hub. Hone your technique in the Ice Park and then apply your skills on a backcountry route that best meets your goals and ability. Surrounded by the sky-scraping peaks, most of them thirteeners, Silverton is regarded as one of the chief gateways into Colorado’s scenic backcountry. Join an expert guide and come see why these scenic backcountry locations attract the most fervent ice climbers year after year.
Discover and climb dazzling peaks and majestic frozen structures
Get lost in San Juan’s rugged and picturesque backcountry
Whether you’re a rookie climber or a seasoned vet, you won’t get overlooked
Head to Colorado’s backcountry and have a blast on an exhilarating ice climbing adventure in the quaint mining towns of Ouray and Silverton. Explore the frozen structures and various routes ranging from single-pitch roadside crags to breathtaking 1000 ft mixed climbing routes, and you’re guaranteed to find something just right for you. Let your professional guide navigate you through various backcountry ice climbing crags and tailor an unforgettable adventure specific to your goals!
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 traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Ouray and Silverton, CO, please refer to Colorado’s COVID-19 Travel Guidelines and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website.
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:
If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Ice climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up ice structures using brute strength. You’ll also need to be able to go on a 30-45 minute approach hike. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.
Ouray and Silverton have plenty of options for beginner ice climbers. Whether you’ve never ice climbed before or are transitioning from the rocks to the ice, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the ice, and most importantly, have fun!
For intermediate to advanced ice climbers, Ouray and Silverton have loads of routes to spend the day on, including jaw-dropping 1000 ft WI4 routes and challenging mixed climbing test-pieces. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while ice climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.
All group equipment will be provided by your guiding service and the rest can be rented. If you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
Your guide will provide a more detailed equipment list before your trip. If rental gear is needed, please inform your guide of your specific needs in advance of the trip.
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 days in Ouray and Silverton can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has ice climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Ouray and Silverton, most people fly into Denver International Airport about 6 hours away from Ouray and Silverton. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Ouray and Silverton. Alternatively, you can take a local flight to Montrose, CO, and rent a car or take a shuttle to Ouray, where most routes begin.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. Most routes begin by meeting in Ouray at first light and involve a 30-45 minute approach hike—an early start ensures a more relaxed and secluded day ahead of other parties and gives flexibility on longer routes. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
