Ice Climbing In Rifle, CO

Rifle Mountain Park is best known for its cutting edge rock climbs, however it is also home to some fantastic ice climbing. The same convenience and beauty that this small canyon provides in warmer months also applies in the winter. With the convenience of being able to drive into the canyon and park just below your desired route, the ice climbing in Rifle is always just a minute or two from the car! Rifle Mountain Park is somewhat of a hidden gem in the ice climbing world, especially when compared to more well known areas in Colorado like the Ouray Ice Park, therein lies one of the most attractive features: it is rarely crowded and welcome respite from the more popular ice climbing destinations in Colorado.

Ice axe icon, depicting the trip is ice and winter alpine climbing.

Single pitch ice climbing, ranging from WI4 to WI6

Calendar and clock icon, depicting the time and season that is best for the trip.
A mountain icon, depicting the prerequisites required for the guided trip.

Previous toprope ice climbing experience recommended, this area is best suited for steep ice climbing

Late December - early March

Steep pillars of ice in an iconic limestone canyon

  • Nestled in between the popular rock climbing on the limestone cliffs, the ice climbing in Rifle Mountain Park provides a truly unique experience. The secluded and peaceful nature of the canyon combined with the impressive pillars of ice dribbling out of the vertical cliffs makes Rifle a perfect winter ice climbing destination. There are climbs here for just about everyone from beginner to expert. Here are some of our favorite ice climbing routes in Rifle Mountain Park:

    • Final Curtain (WI3/4)

    • Middle Ice Cave (WI4)

    • Pleasure Pillar (WI5)

    • Soul on Ice (WI5)

  • On many days it is possible to combine a day of guided ice climbing at Rifle with an afternoon rock climbing on one of the sunny walls opposite the ice. A dual sport day is a unique opportunity in Colorado where mild winters make it possible to enjoy both rock and ice climbing ice in one fun-packed adventurous day in Rifle Mountain Park!

Climbing up the backside of a pillar.
Ice climbing a steep pillar in Rifle.
Toprope ice climbing on Final Curtain (WI4).
Cool cave features behind the ice formations.
Ice climbing on a steep pillar in Rifle, Colorado.
The routes Stone Free and Ice Palace (WI5) at the entrance to the canyon.

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