Steep Ice and Mixed Technique

If you have only just started climbing ice but feel like you've hit a plateau or want to learn specific techniques for mixed climbing here are some skills you can learn:

• Techniques for keeping your energy on long, steep sections of ice.
• Techniques for mixed routes where you need to climb on ice and rock in a pitch.
• How to identify and use rests on steep terrain.
• Managing tools and equipment to be save energy and be efficient.
• Skills for assessing ice quality when transitioning between ice and rock.
• After taking this climbing course participants should feel more prepared for steep terrain or terrain with a mix of ice and rock.

Previous ice climbing experience is recommended. If you aren't already ice climbing then we would suggest the Intro to Ice Climbing Course first.

Lake City Ice Park
With so many ice routes to choose from this is an excellent location for a day or a weekend to really dive deep into the basics of ice climbing and learn everything to climb ice on your own.

Clear Creek Canyon
There are several easier ice climbs that generally form in the canyon and with short approaches they can make an excellent climbing venue for beginners to learn ice climbing skills.

North Cheyenne Canyon
With a couple good areas with moderate ice this is an excellent location to work on technique and for beginner climbers to learn the basics.

Best Places to Learn Basic Ice Climbing Skills
There are several locations that work well for this course due to reliable, high quality ice with minimal approaches. The venues we recommend are:

With the drips, seeps, and waterfalls slowly freezing in the winter a new world opens to climbers as the ice season begins. First high in the mountains and slowly descending into the valleys. While a background in rock climbing is helpful all it takes to start ice climbing is a little extra equipment and some new techniques. Strong wrists help as well but expert instruction will help you learn to ice climb in no time at all.

While we recommend people with no climbing experience take the Full Day to learn those with previous climbing and belaying experience may be able to learn the techniques faster if they already are competent in those skills.

Participants without the required skills may be asked to book additional days to ensure the best learning experience.