There are few better places to try ice climbing than Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Take a day off from the surrounding slopes for an adventure you won’t forget.
You’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation, fitted out with all the right gear and taken to the entrance of the glorious snow-covered Yampa Valley. From there, you’ll shuffle through waist-deep powder and over icy bridges, crossing frozen rivers to the imposing Fish Creek Falls.
Ice climbing is not for the faint-hearted, and is more difficult than you’d think. Once you’ve attached your crampons and worked out how not to take your eye out with the ice picks, it’s onto the frozen waterfall and upwards.
The big key is trusting your crampons once you’ve kicked into the ice, again much more difficult than you’d think. Only then can you relax, look around and enjoy the incredible surroundings.
Steamboat Springs is only a few minutes from Hayden Airport, and a three-and-a-half hour drive from Denver International Airport.
Prices start at around US$260 for a half day and US$400 for a full day.
Ice climbing is tougher than it looks, and takes plenty of effort and trust. However, the experienced team at Steamboat Climbing are on hand to help.
All equipment is provided and beginners are welcome.
Pack warm clothes and some courage.