Introduction to Ice Climbing

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Introduction to Ice Climbing

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
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
  • 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

  • 2L of water
  • 1000-1200 calories of food – energy bars, sandwiches, fruits, etc

Personal

  • Backpack – 25-30L
  • 2 Large mouth water bottles, 1L capacity each. (or 1 water bottle and 1 thermos)
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Smartphone

Optional

  • Toe/Hand Warmers
  • Insulated, vacuum sealed bottle – for hot drinks or soup (1L capacity)
  • Hot Drink – hot cocoa, tea, cider, sports drink, etc
  • Hot Soup – miso or chicken noodle are favorites
Location

2 Options To Choose From

Scheduled Date Course:
2 Classes Per Month
See Dates in Booking

Price Per Person
$249


Book a Private Group
 Price Per Person
1 Person $529
2 people $329
3 people $269
4 people $229
5 people+ $199

Closed For Summer/Reopens In Mid October 2026

Join the First Ascent List For This Course/Trip Next Season

This trip is currently out of season.
Join the list and we’ll contact you first when new dates open.

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