Colorado Ice Climbing Festivals
Ouray Ice Festival
Possibly the most well known ice festival in the county. Every year hundreds of climbers descend on the small town of Ouray to sample the incredible climbing this area has to offer. From the casual cragging of the Ouray Ice Park, to the unique climbs at the Skylight, there is something for everyone in Ouray. To top it all off, at the end of the day you can relax in a soothing hot spring, rejuvenating your muscles to do it all again the next day! This event typically takes place over the Martin Luther King weekend in January.
Besides more climbing than you can shake a stick at, the festival offers numerous clinics hosted by top name climbers, an international competition, parties every night, and more! Many of the sponsors offer gear demos, and this is the perfect place to try out that equipment you've been eyeing.
In addition, there are typically slideshows each night, an all you can eat breakfast, a fundraiser dinner, and even an ice axe throwing contest! The lineup varies slightly from year to year, so be sure to check in to find out all the latest happenings for the 2009 Ouray Ice Festival. For more info visit www.ourayicefestival.com.
Lake City Ice Festival
A new festival on the Colorado ice climbing scene, this is how Ouray "used to be." A low key atmosphere, friendly locals, and good fun are in plentiful supply in the sleepy mountain town of Lake City. They have a small ice park, in addition to many great natural climbs in the mountains surrounding town. View more info on the 2008 Lake City Ice Festival.
The Lake City Ice Park.
Know of any others? Let us know.