2 Day Intermediate Ice Climbing Course

For those who have had several days of ice climbing instruction, and are interested in furthering their skills for more difficult ice climbs, alpine ascents, or developing leading skills we offer a 2 day intermediate ice climbing course. This program begins with a brief review of introductory techniques but rapidly progresses to advanced levels of instruction in area's such as improving efficiency and skill on steep ice, learning mixed climbing techniques like "dry tooling", learning the mental and physical skills to become a lead climber, or learning systems for multi-pitch climbing. This ice climbing course commonly utilizes the Ouray Ice Park for some or all of the instruction; Many participants book a third day of ice climbing with a private guide to attack one of the areas classic multi-pitch backcountry ice routes and makes use of all the climbing skills practiced earlier in the program.

2-Day Intermediate Ice Climbing Course costs $360, 2 days, Saturday & Sunday, maximum ratio 3:1- All ice climbing equipment is included.
Start dates: 1/15/11, 2/12/11, and 3/5/11

"Just wanted to say it was nice meeting you all, and wanted to compliment you on your operation there in Ouray. Kevin, you really kept Leonard, Alan and I on our toes(heels down!!). We three clients were talking about how you adapted the class exactly to our skill and comfort levels, and really kept things interesting out there! It just shows how much experience counts when it comes to guiding and teaching. I'm not sure what that last long climb we did on Sunday is called, but that was definitely the final exam!" - John Settle Leadville, CO

First Day of Course (usually a Saturday)
Meet at 0730 at our shop in the Backstreet Coffeehouse in Ouray. If you would like to order breakfast or lunch try to get here a couple minutes early. Your Course Leader will give you a quick briefing, help you fill out a couple forms, and fit you in whatever demo equipment you might need.
You will then carpool to the Ouray Ice Park for a full day of instruction. Return to the shop is usually between 1500 and 1600 depending on the group. The first day generally covers: Movement skills for up to WI4 terrain, Anchoring, Screw placement, belaying, knots, and tons more.

Second Day of Course
Meet at 0730, carpool to the ice park. Review fundamentals from Day 1, and then take off on more advanced climbs and alpine scenarios designed to maximize your learning through hands-on practice and feedback. We usually try to do at least one route on this day that maximizes dramatic photo opportunities as well.
Leave the park around 1530. Check in demo gear and settle financials. Do a group debrief.

We have honed our curriculum and itinerary through many years of ice climbing instruction. These courses offer a great way to introduce yourself to the sport of ice climbing in a fun, more affordable group atmosphere.

Personal Climbing Equipment (available from SJMG at no charge if you do not have it yourself).
Modern Climbing Harness: Black Diamond Xenos is the premier ice harness out there.
Modern, Adjustable Climbing Helmet: Black Diamond Half Dome demos available.
Warm Mountain Boots: We have Scarpa Mont Blanc, La Sportiva Nepals, and Boreal models to fit all foot types and sizes 4-14.
2 Ice Climbing Tools: BD Viper, Cobra, Reactor, and Fusion tools available for use from SJMG.
Semi-Rigid Vertical Point Crampons: BD Cyborg models available for use from SJMG.
Medium Sized Climbing Backpack: We have a bunch available, but recommend the Mammut Trion Guide and BD Sphynx.

Clothing
We will send you a complete list to help you pack. But you will want to bring a variety of warm layers, shell gear, hats, and gloves. Cameras, sunscreen, water, hot drinks, snacks/lunch, sunglasses are good to have as well!

Course Accommodations:

We primarily recommend the Box Canyon Lodge for all our guests. They run a very clean and professional operation, and have their own set of natural hot springs tubs. www.boxcanyonouray.com

There are loads of other options at all price points. www.ouraycolorado.com/lodging has good info. The Antlers Motel, Ouray Chalet Inn, Comfort Inn, and Simba Suites are all run by personal friends of SJMG and very climber friendly.

Wherever you stay, buy your Ice Park Memebership and get 20% off your stay, and 10% of most restaurants!