Intro To Ice Climbing

Season

Rated 5 out of 5

Winter-Early Spring

Skill Level

Rated 5 out of 5

Beginner-Intermediate

Group Size

Rated 5 out of 5

6-12

Intro to Ice

Curious about ice climbing but not sure where to start? Our Intro to Ice Climbing course is designed for beginners who want a safe, supportive, and exciting introduction to climbing frozen waterfalls.

You’ll learn the fundamentals of ice climbing, including proper use of ice tools and crampons, basic movement techniques, and essential safety systems. No prior ice climbing experience is required—just a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to try something new.

Under the guidance of a certified, experienced instructor, you’ll progress from ground instruction to climbing real ice, building confidence every step of the way. We focus on strong foundations, risk management, and clear communication so you leave with skills you can build on for future ice climbing adventures.

Whether you’re looking to expand your climbing skillset, prepare for alpine objectives, or simply experience the thrill of climbing ice for the first time, this course is the perfect place to start.

Location

Boulder, Colorado

Duration

8 hours

Minimum Eligible Critera

Previous outdoor climbing experience, Ability to climb 5.8 on top rope outside, previous experience leading bolt protected (sport) climbs and cleaning anchors, experience rappelling, familiarity with knots and hitches relevant to single pitch climbing: figure eight, overhand on a bight, clove hitch, prussik.

Skilled Covered

Proper techniques for belaying and lowering on ice
Development of an efficient swing with leashless tools
Solid use of feet and controlled body movement
Winter warmth techniques including clothing and food
Presentation of ice climbing equipment and technical systems
Practice ice screw removal and basic anchoring techniques

Minimum Age

Under 18 will need written consent from parent/guardian

Included

AMGA Trained/Certified Guide
Group Climbing Equipment
Technical Hardware
Technical Soft goods
Personal Climbing Equipment
Helmet
Harness

Not Included

Food
Transport
Lodging
Trip/Cancelation Insurance
Non-technical Personal Items
Rescue Insurance
Park Entrance Fees (if applicable)
Guide Gratuity
Unforseen Cost Incurred Outside of the Control of SAI

Booking Info

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. Once booked, the final payment will automatically be charged 2 days before the climbing date.

Intro to Ice Class

2026 Intro to Ice Climbing Class Dates:

March 7th 2026

Custom Intro To Ice Day With A Private Guide

Don’t see your dates? Choose this option with a Private Guide for the day you prefer. If you have more than one person, the price will go down automatically based on total in your party.

Equipment List

Clothing

Mid-weight synthetic bottom
Synthetic underwear
Softshell pants – a tighter, more athletic fit is ideal (do not wear baggy ski pants)
(optional) Down or synthetic insulated pants – full side zip – should fit over all your layers

Bottom

Lightweight longsleeve top
Midweight longsleeve top – with hood recommended
Sports Bra
Softshell Jacket with hood
Non-insulated Waterproof shell jacket with hood – should fit over your softshell jacket and under your harness waistbelt
Down or synthetic insulated puffy jacket – should fit over the outside of all your layers

Head

Wool or synthetic beanie – needs to fit under your helmet (no pom pom on top)
Neck gaiter or balaclava – Buffs are great!
Face Mask (PPE) – n95 or similar
Sunglasses – full sun protection with 100% UV protection

Hands

1 pair of heavyweight insulated gloves for belaying
2 pairs of mid-weight water resistant softshell type gloves – with a leather palm

Feet

Wool or synthetic mid-weight socks – ski socks are great!
(do not wear heavy weight, bulky wool socks – your feet will get colder)
Boots: leather or synthetic waterproof, insulated fully rigid mountaineering boot
- Ex: La Sportiva Nepal Cube
  - Can be rented at Bent Gate Mountaineering in Golden
Optional: Gaiters

Technical Equipment

Ice tools – designed for vertical water ice climbing
Crampons – designed for vertical water ice climbing – dual point preferable
Harness – UIAA/CE rated climbing harness with belay loop and gear loops. Should be able to fit on the outside of your layers. Adjustable leg loops recommended
Helmet – UIAA/CE rated climbing helmet. Should be able to fit on the outside of your beanie
Belay/rappel device – plaquette, tube style device preferred
2 locking carabiners – large, round stock screw gate carabiners that are easily manipulated while wearing gloves

*All technical equipment will be provided by SAI, but if you have our own, it’s encouraged that you bring it.

Food