Introduction to Ice Climbing Course

Experience a full day of ice climbing on the starkly beautiful ice falls of Colorado’s central mountains. All technical gear is provided. This course is designed for novice adventurers seeking a structured day of learning and fun out on the ice. Instead of simply sending you up on a top rope, our certified guides progress the group through a curriculum designed to give participants the knowledge and skills required to navigate the often intimidating activity of ice climbing. You will leave with a foundation of outdoor ice climbing skills after plenty of time actually climbing.

3 student minimum needed to run the course

In this course, climbers will learn & practice the following:

• Proper fit and function of all personal climbing gear, including harnesses, crampons, and helmets
• Efficient use of ice tools
• Efficient climbing techniques to move gracefully over ice
• Several knots and hitches involved in the climbing system
• Belay techniques to keep both climber and belayer safe
• Setup and rappelling yourself from the top of the fall
• Climbing communication
• A sense of stewardship for open spaces
• Awareness of avalanche risk and its mitigation

We will meet at the CAG office or a convenient rendezvous point, gear up and hike out to the field. Meeting time is 8AM. We will spend the day in field instruction where we turn the winter backcountry into an experiential classroom where you will learn and practice your new climbing skills.

Trip Package Includes

• CAG professional climbing guide (5:1 maximum guide to student ratio)
• All climbing equipment
• Transportation from designated meeting place to the trailhead
• A safe, fun, and educational experience

Trip Package Does Not Include

• Lodging
• Clothing for winter weather conditions – bring layers
• Insurance (trip or rescue)
• Instructor gratuity
• Snacks or beverages