Colorado Ice Climbing at it’s best: Silverton.
Ice climbing Silverton: With an elevation of more than 9,000 feet above sea level, Silverton Colorado is one of the most celebrated destinations in the U.S. when it come stop ice climbing. Surrounded by many 13 and even some 14 thousand foot peaks, alpine snows melt down faces and runs off into the countless galleys and draws providing accessible excursions and world class climbing.
Here, Durango based climber Brian Davies works his way up the Direct North Face in South Mineral Creek Canyon. At 1,500 feet, this is a serious outing.
Check out Eureka, home of Stairway to Heaven, Second Gulley, Highway to Hell and other classics. South Mineral Creek hosts numerous routes like Campground Couloir, Snowblind and more.
Ouray and the famous Ouray Ice park is only 25 miles north, making this region a climber’s paradise.
Eat: The Golden Block. This new favorite is a staple for local climbers. The beer is brewed right there and the wood fired pizza is perfect for post freezing conditions.
Drink: The Rum Bar : Another stash where skiers and climbers gather. Go for the Painkiller to relive those forearms and warm the toes. Homemade Montoya Rum from Crested Butte with cream of coconut, pineapple orange, pomegranate and a rich of nutmeg.
Sleep: The Bent: This Victorian hotel is straight out of 1907 when it was built – as a bordello. The small rooms are charming and historic. When the snow is good you could ski out from the car. Have a bite downstairs and stumble over to Green Street for more night life.
Check with San Juan Mountain Guides for conditions in the mountains.
