BACKCOUNTRY ICE

Backcountry ice – it’s the reason we climb. There is truly something other-worldly about the magic you experience when climbing a frozen waterfall in the backcountry of the San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado. The backcountry ice routes in the Ouray, Silverton & Telluride area offer pristine ice quality, unique formations, crystal clear blue ice and experiences you’ll keep with you for a lifetime. The day I climbed my first multi-pitch ice route in Ouray, Colorado changed my life and I believe it has the power to influence other climbers in a similar fashion. Starting the experience of climbing a backcountry waterfall route in the San Juans is something I am particularly passionate about. I strive to prepare people for the best possible experience on a backcountry ice route and to provide safe, memorable experiences for climbers at all levels. 

I offer private backcountry ice guiding for climbers seeking once-in-a-lifetime winter climbing experiences on frozen waterfall routes in the Ouray, Silverton & Telluride area. I provide private guiding through local permitted guide services, and cater to climbers of all skill levels on a variety of backcountry routes. From beautiful single-pitch routes to exhilarating multi-pitch challenges, the backcountry ice climbs in the San Juan Mountains offer something for climbers of all abilities and ambitions.

My backcountry programs not only provide expert instruction in ice climbing but also guide you up classic San Juan ice routes that are as rewarding to tick off as they are beautiful to look at. A popular choice among guests is to combine two days of ice climbing instruction at the Ouray Ice Park with a third day dedicated to conquering a classic backcountry ice climb.

Classic Climbs: 

The San Juan Mountains are home to an extensive array of backcountry ice routes, ensuring that even the most seasoned climbers will find new challenges for years to come. Iconic test-pieces like Bridalveil Falls in Telluride or the 1,200’ “Stairway to Heaven” in Eureka outside Silverton are spectacular and proud routes on any ice climber’s bucket list. Certain ephemeral routes like Gravity’s Rainbow or the Ribbon only come in during certain conditions, so if you’ve got a rare route you’ve been dreaming of climbing, the best way to make it happen is to reach out and communicate with me throughout the season to time your visit accordingly. Ice is an inherently fleeting and transient medium, so it’s best to approach a backcountry trip with flexibility and an open-mind. Conditions might not line up for your first choice of route, but there’s always something to climb and I strive to be flexible with scheduling to ensure you get the most out of your backcountry ice experience.