The first time I ever visited Ouray, Colorado was during their Ice Climbing Festival. I was dazzled by the climbers, the canyon full of ice and of course, the “Switzerland of America.” We made a day trip to Telluride to Cross Country Ski through town and I remember that being the first time I felt like a true Coloradan enjoying winter.
January 18th marks the 29th Annual Ice Climbing Festival and if you have never been to Ouray and looking for a winter escape, I highly recommend the trek. It’s quite the drive from Denver, but there are flight options to Montrose and you can rent a car and drive in as well.
The Ouray Ice Festival in Colorado is a premier event that draws ice climbing enthusiasts from around the world. Held annually in the ice-climbing Mecca of Ouray, this festival celebrates the exhilarating sport of ice climbing against the backdrop of stunning frozen waterfalls and towering cliffs.
The festival offers a range of activities and competitions that cater to climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Participants have the opportunity to attend clinics led by professional climbers, where they can hone their technique and learn new skills in the challenging and dynamic environment of ice climbing.
A highlight of the festival is the elite mixed climbing competition, which showcases the prowess of top athletes as they navigate intricate and challenging routes on mixed terrain. Spectators can witness these skilled climbers in action, demonstrating remarkable agility and strength as they conquer the ice-covered walls with precision and finesse.
In addition to the adrenaline-pumping competitions, the festival creatures gear demos, vendor booths, and social gatherings, creating a vibrant and communal atmosphere where climbers can connect with fellow enthusiasts, share experiences, and immerse themselves in the camaraderie of the ice climbing community.
The Ouray Ice Festival offers a thrilling and unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike, providing an opportunity to witness the mastery of ice climbing, explore the beauty of the surrounding San Juan Mountains, and revel in the sense of community and passion that unites climbers from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. It’s a celebration of adventure, skill, and the raw, elemental beauty of ice climbing in one of the most striking natural settings in Colorado.