Ice Climbing Conditions In The San Juan Mountains

Skyward Mountaineering is dedicated to building a supportive and informed ice climbing community in the San Juan Mountains. Our local Ouray ice climbing guides share up-to-date information on ice and avalanche conditions, weather patterns, and unique variables that shape the ice forecast throughout the winter in an effort to help climbers of all levels make the most of their time in Colorado’s premier ice climbing destination. We strive to update this page with current and evolving conditions so you have the most current information about what rare routes are “in” and how classic standbys are forming throughout the winter season. Whether you’ll be spending most of your time climbing in the Ouray Ice Park, cragging at the Skylight area in Ouray, or exploring bigger backcountry routes in Eureka, we’re here to provide helpful info and possibly even convincing you to book a trip with our guides for an ascent of your dream route.

We want to foster connection, education and respect for the mountains. Join our community to stay informed, climb smart and experience the best ice climbing in the San Juans.

* The information provided here on current ice climbing conditions is just another resource, not a guidebook, not a guarantee, and certainly not a replacement for purposeful decision making, analysis of the snowpack, and solid climbing skills. Keep your brain turned on and make smart decisions based on your experience, skill, and risk tolerance.

Current Ouray Ice Climbing Conditions

Current Silverton Ice Climbing Conditions

Current Telluride Ice Climbing Conditions

04/01/26 Update:

Many of these routes are flowing waterfalls now.


ROUTE GRADE PITCHES IS IT IN? MORE INFO
Diamond Hill WI4 4 No
Silverpick Falls WI5 1 No
Cornet Falls WI5 1 No
Bear Creek Area WI4 No
Bridal Veil Falls WI5+ 3 No
Ingram Falls WI5 2 No
Sapphire Bullets Of Pure Ice WI5, M6 3 No
True GRIT WI5, M6 6 No
Lower Ames Falls/Practice Area WI3
No
Ames Ice Hose WI5, M5 3 No
Cracked Canyon WI5 1 No

Current Lake City Ice Climbing Conditions

04/01/2026 Update:

Summer is here, stay tuned for the winter 2026/27 season update.

want more beta? Hire a guide for A Private Ice Climbing Trip

We guide ascents of backcountry routes in Ouray, Silverton, and Telluride throughout the winter and we want to share our knowledge of the area and these incredible ice climbing routes with you. Get in touch to discuss your goals and previous climbing experience and we’d happily make recommendations and provide a customized ice climbing itinerary for you. Let us share the stoke for ice climbing with you!

Share Ice Conditions In The San Juan Mountains

Help us keep this community resource accurate and up-to-date! Let us know what you’ve climbed, if conditions have changed since our report, or you feel like we’re missing something. Fill out the following form to get in touch and send us your beta, or give us a call to chat directly. Thanks for your support.