ICE CLIMBING INFORMATION ARTICLES

Ice Climbing in Colorado

Written by: ggeneroso

photo from ABC-of-IceClimbing.com member phishippie

Colorado is a very popular Ice Climbing destination. People from all over the world flood the area during the winter season, from mid-December until the last week of March or first week of April.

Colorado is home of the world’s first official ice park - the Ouray Ice Park. This is one of the most sought-after Ice Climbing areas frequented by climbers of all ages and abilities. There are other places in Colorado which offer great Ice Climbing action but Ouray Ice Park is the best. Founded in 1995, Ouray Ice Park offers the ultimate Ice Climbing experience. Featuring 100-foot enhanced-by-man ice walls and with more than 180 challenging routes and expanding terrain, it has undoubtedly captured the hearts of numerous climbers from all over the world. Because of the increasing number of climbers, the Board of Directors planned to increase the size of the ice park.

Colorado also hosts the annual Ouray Ice Festival. Since 1995, the Ouray Ice Festival has been the highlight of the Ice Climbing season. Held every January, the festival raises more than half of the park’s annual operating capital. Climbers from all over the world gather in the area to compete against one another to reach the zenith of the ice wall. From 300 climbers in 1995 to 3,500 climbers and spectators in 2005, the festival is surely a big hit.

There are other activities offered in the ice festival. Sponsors provide gear demonstrations throughout the event, slide shows presented in the local movie house, food and dancing at the Community House, Ice Climbing clinics, and shopping in the equipment bazaar.

If you want to have a cool and memorable Ice Climbing adventure, fly to Colorado. Your winter season will never be the same again.