Lifes Adventures

Vail Valley Ice Climbing

Looking for a unique adventure this winter?  Have a go at Ice Climbing!  The Vail Valley and East Vail in particular is world renowned for its wide variety of icy landscape.  With waterfall ice grading up to W15+ and mixed ice grading up to M8 Vail offers terrain for the most advanced ice climbers as well as the enthusiastic beginner.  Whether you want to scale a low angle ice slab or a 120 foot icefall, there is something here for you.  If you choose to use a guide all equipment is provided and all you need to do is bring your sense of adventure and passion for physically demanding fun. 

The use of ice climbing is documented back to 19th century mountaineering in Europe, but it wasn't until the early 20th century that the activity gained ground as a popular sport.  With the invention of customized boots, ice axes, and other necessary ice tools, the landscape that mountaineers were able to tackle was becoming steeper and steeper.  Today it is a common form of recreation within the climbing community as well as a widely used method for scaling the wide array of Colorado 14 ers . 

Vail Rock and Ice Guides are the valleys exclusive company for beginner, intermediate and expert guided tours and classes.  You may also visit Alpine Quest Sports for all of your equipment and clothing needs.  Don't be afraid to jump right in and try this unique and exclusive sport for yourself.  It will be worth it!  Our photos are a collection from various people enjoying the Vail Valley.   If you are out doing the same and would like to share your photos, please email us.   We are putting together an exciting gallery of photos for all to enjoy.   Wouldn't you like to show off your photos to thousands of people?!

Feel free to contact us with any questions.  Have Fun!