VAIL ICE CLIMBING
Welcome to American Mountain School, your gateway to the ultimate Vail ice climbing adventure! Whether you’re a beginner looking to try ice climbing for the first time or an experienced climber ready to tackle more challenging routes, we have something for everyone. Our expert, certified guides provide personalized instruction and ensure a safe, exhilarating experience as you explore Vail’s stunning frozen waterfalls and ice formations. Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail offers some of the best ice climbing in the country. Join us and make your next adventure unforgettable!
Why Choose American Mountain School for Your Vail Ice Climbing?
- Certified, Experienced Guides: Our expert team knows the Vail area and provides top-notch instruction tailored to your skill level.
- Personalized Attention: We keep our group sizes small to ensure you receive individualized guidance and support throughout your climb.
- Safety First: With a focus on safety, we provide the best practices and equipment to ensure a secure, enjoyable experience.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, we offer programs designed to challenge and improve your skills.
- Top-Quality Gear: We provide all necessary climbing equipment, so you can focus on the adventure.
- Unforgettable Adventure: Climb in one of the most scenic and renowned ice climbing destinations in the world, with breathtaking views and unique challenges.
Vail, Colorado, stands out as a world-class ice climbing destination for a variety of reasons. Its stunning location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains offers climbers access to breathtaking natural ice formations, including frozen waterfalls, towering ice pillars, and steep gullies. Vail’s reliable winter conditions guarantee a long climbing season, with consistently cold temperatures creating perfect ice conditions from December through March.
What makes Vail especially appealing is the wide range of routes available, catering to climbers of all experience levels. Beginners can enjoy more accessible, shorter climbs, while seasoned climbers will find plenty of challenging multi-pitch routes and technical ice walls to push their limits. The area is also home to several iconic climbs, such as the Rigid Designator and The Fang, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe.
Beyond its climbing opportunities, Vail boasts a vibrant outdoor adventure community, world-class accommodations, and easy access to amenities, making it an ideal spot for a full adventure getaway. Whether you’re seeking to learn or improve your skills, Vail provides the perfect environment for ice climbing.
INCLUDES:
GROUP GEAR such us rope, slings, rock protection, climbing quickdraws, etc.
PERSONAL GEAR (IF YOU DO NOT HAVE YOUR OWN)
- Sharpened classic Ice tools
- Crampons pre-fitted and sharpened
- Technical boots depends of the size
- Climbing helmet
- Climbing harness
EXCLUDES:
PERSONAL GEAR
- Climbing backpack 20-30 ltr
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Sunscreen/lip balm
- Safety glasses
- Personal First Aid Kit
- Snack for a day
- Thermos
- Water (Isotonic)
Clothing should be appropriate for the weather conditions, but the following list is recommended:
- Storm jacket (hard shell)
- Big down jacket w/hood
- Hard shell pants
- Hard shell jacket
- Gloves 2 pair
- Mittens
- Winter hat
- Buff
- Base layers
- Mid layers
If you do not have some of the personal equipment ask us, we can help you with it. Most of the personal equipment we have in stock and we can provide it for you.
The meeting location for Vail Ice Climb – Bighorn Road Free Parking lot, Vail, https://maps.app.goo.gl/AZi5GSgenEcBrhqH9
PRICE INCLUDES
- Climb itinerary
- Guide fees
- Group equipment such as ropes, rock protection, quick draws, etc.
- Some personal gear (see gear list)
- Human waste disposal bags
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Food during trip
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
- Personal gear (see gear list)
- Trip cancellation insurance
- Rescue Insurance
- Gratuity
- Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of American Mountain School
Book Your Vail Ice Climbing Adventure
FAQ
No previous ice climbing experience is necessary! Our guides will teach you the basics, from using crampons and ice axes to climbing techniques. We offer courses for all levels, so whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced climber looking to improve, we have a program suited to you.
Ice climbing is a physically challenging activity, but our programs are designed to accommodate different fitness levels. Beginners can start with less strenuous climbs, while more advanced climbers can take on steeper, longer routes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but no prior experience is required to start.
It’s important to dress in layers to stay warm and dry while ice climbing. We recommend a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layers (like fleece), and a waterproof outer shell. You’ll also need insulated gloves, a warm hat, and sturdy, waterproof boots compatible with crampons. Don’t forget sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from glare and falling ice!
The best time for ice climbing in Vail is between January and March when the ice conditions are most reliable. Winter temperatures during these months keep the ice formations solid, making it the ideal season for climbing.
A typical ice climbing day with American Mountain School lasts about 8 hours, including travel time to and from the climbing site. We provide plenty of time for breaks and instruction, so you can learn and climb at a comfortable pace.
We provide all the necessary ice climbing gear, including helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes. If you have your own gear, you’re welcome to bring it, but we ensure that all climbers are fully equipped for the day.
Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are too dangerous for climbing, we may need to reschedule the trip. However, ice climbing can often continue in snowy or cold conditions, and we will notify you in advance of any weather-related changes.
You can easily book your Vail ice climbing adventure through our website or by contacting our office. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates, especially during the peak winter season.
Start Your Vail Ice Climbing Journey Today!
6-8 hours ice climbing with certified guide
Open to participants of all skill levels.
No prior rock climbing experience is required.
