Backcountry Ice Climbing - Ouray & Telluride
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the thrill of backcountry ice climbing with Mountain Trip, where adventure meets expertise in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Since 1973, our AMGA certified or trained guides have delivered personalized experiences for all skill levels, blending education and fun. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or an advanced climber seeking a challenge, our tailored trips deliver excitement and growth.
Explore stunning ice flows and formations in remote backcountry settings near Ouray, Silverton, and Telluride, with routes customized to your goals. Our guides provide expert instruction on essential ice climbing techniques, safety protocols, and alpine skills to help you build confidence and master single- and multi-pitch ice climbs.
With all technical gear provided, you can focus on the climb. Backed by more than 50 years of experience and a passion for adventure, Mountain Trip offers an unforgettable backcountry ice climbing experience. Book today!
Available options
Backcountry Ice Climbing - Ouray & Telluride
Pickup included
What's included
All technical gear for ice climbing, including boots, crampons, ice tools, harness and helmet.
What's not included
Guide gratuity
Personal clothing
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Your guide will be in touch with you before your trip about specific meeting instructions.
About Telluride
Telluride is a picturesque mountain town nestled in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class skiing, and rich history, it offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural charm, and relaxation. The town's Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene add to its allure, making it a year-round destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Telluride Ski Resort
One of the premier ski resorts in North America, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding with over 2,000 acres of terrain.
Adventure
Full day
Expensive (lift tickets required)
Telluride Gondola
A free, 13-minute gondola ride offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Adventure
13 minutes each way
Free
Bridal Veil Falls
One of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, accessible via a scenic hike or a short drive.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Telluride Historical Museum
A small but fascinating museum showcasing the town's rich history, including mining, ranching, and early settlers.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate
Telluride Arts District
A vibrant arts district featuring galleries, studios, and cultural events throughout the year.
Cultural
Varies
Free to explore, varying for events
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rocky Mountain Oysters
Deep-fried bull testicles, a local delicacy and a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Appetizer
Not vegetarian or vegan
Bison Burger
A juicy burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often served with artisanal toppings.
Main Course
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options available
Colorado Lamb
Tender and flavorful lamb dishes, often grilled or roasted and served with seasonal vegetables.
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Whitewater rafting
Hot springs soaking
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December to March) and Summer (June to August)
Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and festivals. Both seasons attract large crowds due to the popularity of outdoor activities.
Winter: -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F), Summer: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
Winter: 14°F to 41°F, Summer: 50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT) (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Telluride is a safe destination with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of the potential risks associated with outdoor activities and mountain environments.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding
- • Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when driving, especially in winter conditions
Getting there
By air
- Telluride Regional Airport • 2 miles from town
- Montrose Regional Airport • 72 miles from Telluride
By bus
Telluride Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Operates year-round, offering stunning views and easy access to the ski resort and Mountain Village.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxis, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Telluride Town
Mountain Village
Telluride Valley Floor
Day trips
Ouray
40 miles (64 km) • Full day
Known as the 'Swiss Alps of America,' Ouray offers stunning mountain views, historic architecture, and natural hot springs.
Silverton
25 miles (40 km) • Half day
A historic mining town with a rich past and stunning mountain views, offering a glimpse into Colorado's mining heritage.
Ridgway
20 miles (32 km) • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and stunning mountain views, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic drives.
Festivals
Telluride Film Festival • Late August to early September
Telluride Bluegrass Festival • Mid to late June
Telluride Jazz Festival • Early to mid-August
Pro tips
- Visit the Telluride Visitor Center for maps, brochures, and local recommendations
- Take advantage of the free gondola to explore the town and access the ski resort
- Book accommodations, lift tickets, and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Try local specialties, such as Rocky Mountain oysters, bison burgers, and huckleberry pie
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
