Ouray Ice Expedition 2026

Join MAA in Ouray Colorado for six days of spectacular ice climbing. This area is world-famous, boasting hundreds of routes at the Ouray Ice park, some amazing climbing just outside the park and also the Silverton area. We rent a house just minutes from the park where we can climb dawn to dusk. We will also be climbing ice in the backcountry, weather permitting. Ice climbing experience is required (see below). Loaner gear may be available (see below).

There is no screening for this event - we have room for 8 stoked ice climbers! Hope to have you out with us!

DETAILS:

• DATES: Monday, January 5th to Saturday, January 10th, 2026
• LOCATION: Assorted WI2 - WI5 routes in Ouray and Silverton, CO, 
• EVENT LEADER: Darren Shutt
• MIN / MAX: 5 / 8
• OVERVIEW: This is a multi-day group event that will comprise ice climbing on top rope, multi-pitch ice climbing, as well as selected opportunities to lead climb in a controlled setting. The focus will be on safety, skills proficiency and further competency in enjoying the spectrum of ice climbing with other like-minded members! All interested and qualified members are encouraged to register. This event will help members qualify for other more demanding events such as the February Canadian Ice Expedition, the March Whitney Ice Expedition, and Mount Robson in July. Transportation is the responsibility of the participant.
• CLIMBING SKILLS REQUIREMENTS: Participants should know how to belay, tie in, lower and be lowered. A minimum ability to climb WI3 or equivalent level of training is expected. For those planning on climbing in the backcountry a minimum ability to lead WI3 or follow WI4 is expected. 
• PERSONAL GEAR: Members are encouraged to use their own equipment. If you are missing something, club loaner gear may be available (excluding footwear). Use of club gear is on a first-come-first-served basis and MUST be reserved before the trip by contacting the Event Leader. 
• SHARED GROUP COST: $550 per participant. This covers the house rental for six days, EL reimbursement to get the ELs and gear to Ouray, and MAA gear deposit.
• REFUNDS: Full refunds are available 30 days before the trip date. Between 30 and 10 days, 50% refunds will be given. Less than 10 days, no refunds will be given.
• WHAT TO BRING: Warm boots, sharp crampons, ice tools, harness, belay device, eye protection, a few carabiners, slings, PAS, any personal lead climbing or anchor building equipment, rope, cold weather clothing, shell layers, multiple socks and gloves, climbing pack, sleeping bag, pad, travel clothes. MAA will supply ice tools for loan, many ropes, ice screws, and anchor building equipment for group use. There are hot springs in town, so bring a bathing suit. 
• MEDICAL: If you have any medical conditions pertinent to your participation on this event, please inform the event leader after registration.
• LODGING: The house is downtown within walking distance of the ice park and accommodates 8, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Please bring a sleeping bag and mat as this will give us maximum flexibility with beds and space. 

ITINERARY:

• PRIOR: Conference call in December to arrange logistics and travel, TBD
• Monday, Jan. 5th: Travel to CO and check-in. Meet and greet, get settled into sleeping arrangements, chow, and make plans for the next day.
• Tuesday, Jan. 6th - Friday, January 9th: Leave early to secure routes, walking to the park for top-rope and lead ice climbing at various locations. We will also do some climbing in the backcountry, as can be arranged. Climb until the afternoon, then evening meals and festivities to ensue back in town. We usually plan one group meal (often near the middle/end of the week) where each of us can share a favorite dish. It's always a highlight of the trip!
• Saturday, January 10th: Clean house and check out, travel home. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• In order to register you must have current Base or Apex level membership.
• Event leaders are experienced volunteers, but may not be certified guides.
• Travel arrangements are separate. Flights can be arranged to both Grand Junction and Durango, but wintertime flights into Colorado can be unreliable. Driving may also be hampered by winter storms and road closures.

For more information or questions about this climbing event, please contact the listed event leader, darren@mountainascent.org, or (916) 872-3399.