ICE CLIMBING INFORMATION ARTICLES

Ouray Ice Climbing

Written by: cj apelo

photo from: theadventureblog.blogspot.com

Known as the "Ice Climbing capital of North America", Ouray is one of the few locations in the lower 48 states where quality Ice Climbing is virtually guaranteed in the winter months. Located in the San Juan Range of southwestern Colorado, it has the combination of mild winter temperatures, easy access to quality climbing, and the small scenic town setting, making it one of the finest Ice Climbing destinations.

Ouray is one of the best places to learn the art of Ice Climbing. It ranked as one of the most popular Ice Climbing locations in the world. This is not surprising, since the surrounding mountains provide numerous spectacular Ice Climbing routes. Also, Ouray has the only ice park where a mile of farmed ice is available to climbers right in the city limits.

Since the 1970s, Ice Climbing buffs have been visiting Ouray to practice their craft on a few of the steep classics that formed on the sheer walls of the Uncompagre Gorge.

Climbs such as "Stone Free" and "Tangled Up in Blue" are the stiff test pieces in the gorge located at the south end of the sleepy alpine hamlet.

Though the equipment changed dramatically, Ice Climbing challenges in the area remain. However, when some enterprising local climbers came upon the idea to manipulate a nearby water source and start spraying it over the edges of the mile-long gorge, Ouray Ice Climbing scene began to transform in its present state.

In the fall of 1994, a few locals strung out some half-inch pvc pipe and the odd assortment of garden hose and sprinkler heads and began to farm ice in the gorge. What resulted from this experiment surprised even the experts – long, steep lines of crystal blue ice on previously blank rocks. In the winter of 1994-1995, climbers began coming to Ouray to test the newly formed terrain which is now known as the Ouray Ice Park.

As a proof of Ouray’s popularity in the field of Ice Climbing, the Ouray Ice Festival ensues in the place annually. This is where ice climbers and gear manufacturing exhibitors gather to enjoy the sport. Familiar faces return yearly to climb, socialize, test the latest equipment, or watch the pros as they try to scratch their way up the latest competition route.

There are also shops in the area that offer seminars and lessons for those who are interested to try Ice Climbing. The sport requires balance and focus plus efficient techniques. Ice Climbing may look like a tough sport but with the right attitude and determination, one can go a long way.

So if you are interested in Ice Climbing and you are looking for the right venue to start your lessons, come and visit Ouray and see for yourself this world-famous Ice Climbing spot.