Ice Climbing in Aspen and Redstone

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:

• • An experienced, local ice climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  • A half or full day of ice climbing depending on your chosen itinerary
  • All technical ice climbing equipment

What’s not included:

• • Transportation
  • Accommodations
  • Meals and snacks

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:

• • Sunglasses
  • Ski goggles
  • Warm hat and sun hat
  • Heavy and medium weight gloves
  • Neck gaiter or balaclava — optional
  • Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended)
  • Ski pants (Gore-Tex recommended)
  • Down or synthetic jacket or vest
  • Synthetic or wool zip shirt
  • Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear, and socks
  • Repair kit and Leatherman for your equipment (can be shared between several people)
  • Water bottle and 1L of water
  • Thermos with a warm beverage — optional
  • Food you can eat on-the-go
  • Toiletries
  • First aid kit
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (around a 30-40L backpack)
  • Camera — optional

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:

• • For this adventure, the max client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. All prices are per person.
  • Costs per person decrease as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.

Ice climbing in Aspen and Redstone can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

• • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

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.