Mija Lee
Ready to climb frozen waterfalls in 2026? The Seattle Branch is excited to offer two water ice climbing courses in Ouray, Colorado.
These courses, Top Roping Water Ice and Introduction to Leading Water Ice, offer several sessions in Seattle to discuss gear and practice your swings on the foam wall, but the majority of instruction takes place in the magical winter wonderland of Ouray Ice Park. The courses are taught by experienced volunteers who love climbing water ice and are excited to share their knowledge and skills with fellow climbers. Applications are due October 1, 2025. These courses are open to members from all branches.
TOP ROPING WATER ICE (INTRO TO CLIMBING WATER ICE)
Ouray dates: January 12-14, 2026
This course is designed for climbers interested in ice climbing. Over three days, participants will learn:
- Ice climbing gear - use and maintenance
- How to read ice
- Ice tool and crampon techniques
- Top rope systems for ice climbing, including how to extend water ice anchors
- Fundamental ice movement skills
A significant portion of this course focuses on developing efficient and effective movement on ice, including
- Proper body positioning, balance, and footwork on vertical ice
- Techniques for swinging ice tools with precision and minimal effort
- How to conserve energy and climb smoothly
By the end of the course, participants should be able to safely top rope moderate water ice (WI3) routes with confidence.
INTRODUCTION TO LEADING WATER ICE
Ouray dates: January 12-14, 2026
This course is for climbers who are comfortable top roping water ice and want to learn how to lead. Attendees must have 10+ days on the ice. Preference is given to people who have also completed a water ice or alpine ice course. The three-day course covers:
- Placing ice screws and building anchors
- Lead climbing techniques
- Advanced movement skills for leading on ice
- Safety practices and risk management
The movement portion of this course builds on basic skills and introduces techniques specific to lead climbing on ice:
- Efficient movement while placing protection
- Techniques for climbing steep and overhanging ice
- Managing pumps and rests during lead climbs
- Adapting movement to varying ice conditions and features
The goal is to prepare climbers for the responsibilities and challenges of leading water ice climbs, with a strong emphasis on developing the movement skills necessary for safe and successful leads.
Both courses take place in the Ouray Ice Park in Colorado, which offers a variety of routes suitable for learning and practicing these crucial movement skills. Course dates do not include travel time.
Important Information
- Participants should have prior climbing experience and be in good physical condition.
- Basic cold weather skills and a good attitude are necessary.
- Group sizes are limited to maintain an excellent ratio of students to volunteer instructors, ensuring personalized attention for movement skill development.
- Climbing gear is not provided but can be rented in Ouray. A gear list will be sent upon registration.
An application is required for both courses that includes information on your experience and goals. Applications are due October 1, 2025. Links can be found on the course page. Acceptance will be communicated by October 15, 2025 to allow ample time to book flights and accomodations.
Questions? Contact Mija Lee.
