SILVERTON CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Climb the Glass: A Day on Silverton’s Frozen Waterfalls
A guided, six‑hour ice‑climbing outing in Colorado that puts climbers (ages 8+; groups up to 8) on frozen waterfalls in the San Juans and Front Range with expert instruction.
Climb the Glass: A Day on Silverton’s Frozen Waterfalls.
Ice climbing around Silverton is a study in ephemeral geometry: curtains of ice hanging off cliffs and frozen waterfalls that change with each cold spell. Under the guidance of experienced instructors you learn the rhythm and technique to swing tools and place crampons on routes that range from approachable park climbs to large backcountry and multi‑pitch lines in the San Juans near Lake City.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
San Juans Ice Sculptures
The San Juan Mountains around Lake City host concentrated ice venues and an ice park where frozen waterfalls and columns provide dramatic, varied lines for instruction and progression.
From First Swings to Multi‑Pitch
Guides take climbers from simple introductions—how to use crampons and ice tools—to more advanced objectives, including multi‑pitch routes such as The Sherman Route and mixed or alpine climbs.
Venues Across Colorado
The operator works statewide: choose less committing Front Range venues or head into the backcountry for large climbs—there are options for a range of objectives and abilities.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Over a six‑hour guided outing you work with guides to build a steady climbing rhythm: learning tool placement, crampon technique and movement on ice, then applying those skills to increasingly committed lines. Experienced guides structure the day so climbers can make measurable progress—whether that means comfortable top‑roping in a park setting or stepping out onto longer, multi‑pitch terrain.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing is built for—and the operator limits to keep in mind.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Participants must provide transportation to climbing sites or lodging; personal clothing and footwear appropriate for winter climbing; personal snacks and water; and trip insurance. Guide gratuities and other costs not associated with services provided by the Colorado Climbing Company are also the participant's responsibility.
Plan for independent transport to the meeting/drive location, budget for guide gratuities, and carry any additional funds for incidental costs not included in the operator’s services.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is a guided day?
Typical guided days run approximately 6 hours.
Where do we meet?
Meeting locations vary by trip and chosen venue; the operator will confirm the meeting point when you book.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 8 years old.
How many people are allowed per trip?
Groups are limited to a maximum of eight people.
What should I bring with me?
Bring transportation to the climbing site, personal clothing and footwear, snacks and water, trip insurance, and funds for gratuities and any costs not covered by the operator.
Do you climb only in the San Juans?
Climbs are available across Colorado, including San Juan venues near Lake City and Front Range sites; the operator will select a location based on conditions and your goals.