Ice Climbing in Colorado Springs
Sadly ice climbing depends a lot on weather and Colorado Springs has some unpredictable weather but once it has snowed and has some freezing temperatures you might be in luck to do some ice climbing in or around Colorado Springs. Luckly in the shade or in Canyons you should be able to find some great places to climb between Dec and April.
Ice Climbing Locations near Colorado Springs
There are sadly only a few locations in or around Colorado Springs to try some ice climbing to get the real experience you definitely need to head into the mountains. The climbing areas in the Springs are on Pikes Peak, North Cheyenne Canyon or in a canyon near Air Force Academy. Here you will be able to see the locations.
North Cheyenne Canyon - Colorado Springs
North Face of Pikes Peak - Dec- April lots of different routes
Oil Creek Tunnel Area - Pikes Peak
Stanley Canyon - Air Force Academy
Helen Hunt Falls - Colorado Springs
Guided Ice Climbing Tours
If you are looking for a guided tour there are also a few companies which will be able show you the ropes and also have the equipment that you will need.
Front Range Climbing - will create custom tours for you and your party
Pikes Peak Alpine School - will show you the ropes around the Springs
What to bring with for ice Climbing
Hat
Suncreen
Snacks
Gloves to climb with
Hiking Shoes Waterproof
Layers of clothing and jackets
Backpack
Water bottle - Bladders will freeze
Different Techniques
There are several different techniques to ice climb depending on the angle of the ice, and how cold it is and of course which ice pick you have. But if you are a beginner make sure you do not kick to hard on the ice because it could cause the ice to break below or above you. So you will need to learn the sweet spot of kicking and using the ice pick. However you will learn quickly.
All ice climbing in the springs you should wear a harness and you will be able to hike to the top of the mountain to be able setup an anchor and let the rope down to make it more secure to ice climb for you dont have to setup anchors along the waterfall.