Finding an ice climbing location as accessible as the Ouray Ice Park is something mountaineers around the world should always be grateful for.
This artificial ice park is the most famous on the continent and is located in Ouray, Colorado. Its appeal for this activity lies in its cliffs up to 25 meters high, covered in curiously formed icicles resulting from an intentional water leak from a nearby pipe.
My trip to this world-renowned ice climbing destination began in Salt Lake City, from where I drove nearly 6 hours to Ouray. There, I stayed overnight and organized my itinerary and gear with my companions. At 7 a.m. the next day, we headed to the park, just a 5-minute drive away.
Admission is free, and parking is very close to some climbing spots; others are farther away, up to 1 mile distant. My companions and I climbed at the closer ones because we didn’t have much time to enjoy the park.
Since the town is not far from the park, medical assistance is within reach, and if the cold or fatigue gets the better of you, you can quickly return to the comfort of your favorite hotel or bar.
In winter, the only attractions for adventurers revolve around ice. During summer, there is a greater variety of activities, but winter sports fade away as temperatures rise.
In any case, you’ll always find a charming town with very friendly people, many of whom are seasoned local climbers—or should I say, "pure ice" climbers