Conquer The Ice With Expert Guidance

Are you looking for ice climbing courses and guided experiences in Colorado? Ice climbing is a unique and exhilarating winter sport that takes the challenge and excitement of rock climbing and adds a new twist. If you're new to the sport, it's smart to take courses and join guided trips before tackling it on your own. It can also be beneficial to those with more experience. Whether you’re a novice eager to try ice climbing for the first time or a seasoned climber looking to refine your skills, there are numerous courses and guided experiences available in Colorado to help you make the most of this incredible sport. Let’s explore some excellent options!

Alpine to the Max

Alpine to the Max is a small independent guide service with AMGA accreditation. They offer extraordinary experiences for various Colorado adventures, including ice climbing.

Intro to Ice Climbing: Beginners, this is for you! The Intro to Ice Climbing course will teach you the basics, but it's also great for intermediate climbers. The experience typically spans 6 to 8 hours.

Learn to Lead Ice: This course is designed for intermediate to advanced climbers looking to elevate their skills and master the art of lead climbing. It lasts anywhere from one to four days.

Multi-Pitch Ice: This is also an intermediate and advanced course, which lasts about 8 hours. Your guide will take you on a spectacular adventure up vertical ice walls, where you will learn how to climb through multiple pitches using ice tools, crampons, and ropes.

Winter Anchors: The Winter Anchors Course is perfect for beginner and intermediate climbers. Learn the essential techniques and gain the expertise needed to build secure anchors on ice and snow. The course lasts between 6-8 hours.

Front Range Climbing Co.

Front Range Climbing Co. delivers exceptional climbing and canyoneering experiences led by some of the most experienced guides in Colorado.

Colorado Ice Clinic: Front Range Climbing Co. hosts an ice clinic that will take your skills to the next level. This comprehensive 8-hour clinic is ideal for individuals who already have some prior experience.

Colorado Mountain School

We previously mentioned Colorado Mountain School in our article about winter survival skills workshops and courses in Colorado. Their dedicated team of climbing and skiing professionals crafts experiences that are educational, fun, and challenging

Intro to Ice Climbing: This 8-hour beginner course provides an introduction, starting with equipment orientation and engaging lectures, before moving into demonstrations and hands-on practice on multiple climbs.

Ice Climbing Development Series: Level 1: This 2-day ice climbing experience is designed to give beginners the ultimate kickstart in the world of ice climbing. On day one, you'll get a comprehensive introduction to ice climbing, while day two takes it up a notch with an unforgettable experience toprope ice climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Classic Ice Climb: The Classic Ice Climb offers a discounted, guided adventure at some of the best ice climbing destinations!

Learn to Lead Ice: Learn to Lead Ice is a day-long course designed to help you take the leap from toproping and seconding to confidently leading your own ice climbs. 

Multi-Pitch Ice Climbing: This 8-hour course teaches you the systems behind multi-pitch climbing and how to follow routes efficiently, setting you up for more ambitious adventures!

Ice Climbing Development Series: Level 2: This 2-day ice climbing development course is designed to take your skills to the next level. Learn to lead single-pitch climbs and follow multi-pitch routes.

Golden Mountain Guides

Golden Mountain Guides is another awesome choice for climbing, hiking, and mountaineering adventures. Led by experienced, AMGA-certified guides, they deliver exceptional quality and unforgettable expeditions. They offer an extensive selection of ice climbing trips and courses.

Privately Guided Ice Climbing: Private Ice Climbing Tours are fully customized to your goals. They tailor each session to build the skills you need to tackle steep alpine and waterfall ice with confidence.

Beginner Ice Climbs: These climbs are the perfect introduction for those new to ice climbing. Learn essential techniques, equipment use, and safety practices with guidance from our professional instructors, and get your first taste of this exciting adventure!

AIARE 1 For Ice Climbers: This 3-day avalanche safety course is for ice climbers exploring avalanche terrain. Gain essential skills in avalanche safety, risk assessment, and rescue following the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education  (AIARE curriculum).

Your Ice Climbing Journey Starts Here

Ice climbing offers an unparalleled adventure for those looking to conquer the frozen landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned climber aiming to develop advanced skills or a beginner taking your first steps on icy terrain, the variety of courses and guided tours available ensures there's something for everyone. These programs provide the skills, confidence, and unforgettable experiences to elevate your climbing.

Helaina Cozza
Helaina is a content writer for OCN. She is a Colorado transplant and loves the Colorado lifestyle. She loves skiing, camping, and hiking.
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