Adventure brief
Multipitch and Backcountry Ice
Elevate your ice climbing skills with Colorado Climbing Company’s advanced course, gaining expertise in anchor building, avalanche assessment, and multipitch techniques in prime Colorado ice climbing venues.
For seasoned climbers seeking to elevate their ice climbing technique, Colorado Climbing Company offers a specialized advanced course focused on multipitch and backcountry ice climbs. Based out of Colorado Springs, Colorado—a gateway to rugged mountain playgrounds—this course pushes experienced climbers into next-level skills essential for tackling some of the state’s most challenging frozen routes. The training takes place in iconic ice climbing hotspots like Lake City Ice Park and Clear Creek Canyon.
Lake City Ice Park is a renowned venue featuring a diverse collection of ice routes varying in length and difficulty, allowing climbers to hone skills on dependable, high-quality ice formations with minimal approach times. Clear Creek Canyon, meanwhile, provides more accessible climbs with stunning canyon walls coated in thick ice flows. Here, climbers develop anchor systems and efficient rope management crucial for safety on long vertical ascents.
The 8-hour course dives deep into anchor building, avalanche risk assessment, managing multipitch transitions, and decision-making for route selection. Climbers refine techniques for both ascending and descending complex lines, preparing for the remote, committing terrain that backcountry ice climbing demands. Emphasis on avalanche awareness integrates mountain safety with technical skill, a vital combination in Colorado’s winter landscape.
Colorado Climbing Company stands out by blending expert instruction with hands-on challenges in some of Colorado’s most exhilarating ice climbing terrain. Their small group sizes—capped at eight—ensure personalized guidance and foster a focused learning environment. This advanced leap is perfect for those who have spent several seasons leading ice routes and are ready to master the nuanced skills and mental game of multipitch and backcountry ice climbing.
With breathtaking frozen cascades framed by steep, rugged cliffs, these climbs capture the raw winter wilderness that makes Colorado a premier destination for serious climbers. This course not only enhances technical ability but also builds the confidence needed to pursue ice climbs far beyond the well-trodden paths.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Assess Avalanche Risk Thoroughlyessential
Always check recent avalanche forecasts before heading out and understand how terrain traps and snow conditions affect safety.
- 02Double-Check Anchor Securityessential
Properly test anchors and practice building redundant stations to ensure safety during multipitch climbs.
- 03Dress in Layered, Insulating Clothinginfo
Prepare for rapidly changing winter conditions by layering moisture-wicking base layers with insulated outer garments.
- 04Plan for Short Daylight Hourswarning
Winter climbs require early starts to maximize daylight; carry a reliable headlamp for emergency lighting.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Mountaineering Ice Tools
Specialized ice axes designed for secure placements on vertical ice.
winterEssentialTechnical Ice Crampons
Crampons with front points optimized for ice climbing precision and grip.
winterEssentialAvalanche Safety Kit
Includes beacon, probe, and shovel—critical for backcountry safety.
winterEssentialClimbing Harness with Gear Loops
Allows efficient carry and access to ice screws, quickdraws, and anchors.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
North Cheyenne Canyon for moderate ice climbs, Remote backcountry ice lines near Lake City
Local fauna
Mountain goats, Pine marten
Historic heritage
Lake City Ice Park has evolved into a premier training ground due to Colorado’s historical mining infrastructure creating steep canyon walls ideal for ice formation.
Mindful exploration
Outfitting trips emphasize Leave No Trace ethics to preserve fragile winter ecosystems and minimize avalanche terrain impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Base of Lake City ice cascades, Clear Creek Canyon overlook, Summit views on multipitch climbs
- Subjects
- Frozen waterfalls, Climber action shots, Snow-draped rock faces
- Best times
- Golden hour, Mid-morning, Overcast days for even light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior ice climbing experience to join this course?
Yes, this advanced course requires climbers to have experience leading ice routes for multiple seasons.
Where are the climbing locations for this course?
Primary locations include Lake City Ice Park and Clear Creek Canyon, both known for quality ice formations.
What safety topics are covered in the course?
The course includes avalanche assessment, anchor building, risk management, and descent techniques.
What is the group size for this course?
Groups are limited to a maximum of eight participants to ensure personalized instruction.
Is gear provided or should I bring my own?
Participants typically provide their own technical gear, but it’s best to confirm with Colorado Climbing Company directly.
How physically demanding is this course?
It is an expert-level experience requiring excellent fitness and comfort with strenuous climbs at high altitude and cold temperatures.