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Have you ever wanted to delve into the dark arts of ice or mixed climbing, but didn’t know where to start? Are you planning on joining our Lake City and/or Ouray ice trips and want to brush up on your skills? Now’s your chance to get expert guidance for climbing frozen waterfalls from our very own Program Manager, and self-proclaimed ice-hound, Sam Sala. We’ve secured access to an amazing, near-roadside private ice flow and mixed climbing crag near Leadville, CO, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
During this full day of instruction, we’ll start out with a quick intro, discussing some of the basics of ice and mixed climbing, including the specialized gear needed, general etiquette at the crag and other safety considerations that are specific to these styles of climbing. After the intro discussion, we’ll dive into the basic movements and techniques of ice and mixed climbing. Whether you’ve climbed a few times or never before, this will be a great chance to set you up for success climbing during our multi-day ice trips to Lake City and Ouray!
The approach is short (approx .25mi), but is off-trail along a mostly frozen creek bed, and snow/ice/water conditions can vary. The area is primitive and considered “backcountry” with no facilities. Wheelchair users will likely need assistance as the approach is not chair friendly. Once at the ice flow, there is a reasonably large and semi-flat area for staging safely away from falling ice and other hazards. Winter temperatures in Colorado can vary greatly and, while we’ll hope for sunny skies, all participants should prepare for sub zero temperatures, wind, snow and sleet by packing lots of warm clothing and layers appropriate for being outdoors in the winter. Please review our packing list carefully and let us know if you have any questions or will be unable to acquire a required piece of clothing or equipment. For your protection – mountaineering boots, crampons and helmets (all provided, if applicable) will be required at all times prior to leaving the parking area. If you are unsure if any of your gear is appropriate for ice climbing, please contact sam@paradoxsports.org to discuss, so we can ensure we have you covered.
This is a beginner clinic - no experience needed! All are welcome, but this will be a 101 level skills based day. We encourage you to register for this clinic if you’ve never climbed before and plan on attending our Ouray trip or Lake City Ice Climbing Skills: 201 for more advanced climbing.
Paradox Sports strives to serve all individuals regardless of ability, and encourages individuals considering this program to review our Essential Eligibility Criteria here. If you have specific questions about this or other programs, please contact Sam Sala, Program Manager, sam@paradoxsports.org.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Local Program Manager Sam Sala
sam@paradoxsports.org or 720-638-5593
Ice and Mixed Climbing 101
at Chalk Creek Falls
Saturday, January 14, 2023
Community Night - Chalk Creek Ice and Mixed Climbing 101
Chalk Creek Falls
Saturday, January 14, 2023