Multi Pitch Ice Climbing
Starting from$229 pp
Take on the challenge of multi-pitch ice climbs, scaling multiple rope lengths of continuous ice in one day. Perfect for climbers ready to push their limits and experience Colorado’s most dramatic winter landscapes.
- Learn multi-pitch climbing techniques in ice environments
- Climb multiple sections of ice in a single route
- Challenge yourself with longer climbs
- Experience breathtaking alpine scenery
Ice Climbing School
Multi Pitch Ice Climbing
What is multi-pitch ice climbing, and who is it suitable for?
Multi-pitch ice climbing involves scaling multiple sections (or “pitches”) of ice in a single, continuous route. It’s an exciting way to experience longer climbs and more vertical terrain. This outing is perfect for climbers with some ice climbing experience who want to take their skills to the next level and explore more advanced, challenging routes, but can also be enjoyed by new climbers in good to excellent fitness.
How does multi-pitch ice climbing differ from regular ice climbing?
Unlike single-pitch climbs, where you complete one section before descending, multi-pitch ice climbing involves climbing multiple connected sections of ice. It requires advanced techniques, coordination with your climbing partner, and a greater focus on route planning and efficient transitions. It’s an exhilarating way to experience longer climbs and more varied terrain.
What skills will I learn during a multi-pitch ice climbing session?
You’ll gain experience in advanced ice climbing techniques, including rope management, efficient belay transitions, anchor building, and communication strategies for longer climbs. Our guides will work with you to refine your skills, helping you become confident in tackling more complex, multi-pitch routes.
How physically demanding is multi-pitch ice climbing?
Multi-pitch ice climbing is more physically demanding than single-pitch outings, as it involves sustained climbing over multiple sections of ice. It’s a full-body workout that requires endurance, balance, and mental focus. However, our guides will tailor the route and pace to match your fitness level, ensuring you have a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Testimonials
Multi Pitch Ice Climbing
The setting in Vail is perfect for your first time on the ice with it’s snow and ice-covered peaks, ease of access and a multitude of challenge levels. Ice climbing for beginners is an exciting experience that will both take your breath away and empower you in the same moment. It’s an adventure, an adrenaline rush and a moving meditation all in one.
This beginner ice climbing course is a great introduction to the basics of ice climbing. After an orientation, we’ll warm up with some easier climbing on low-angle ice. The idea is to develop fundamental skills before moving up to steeper ice, and even intermediate ice climbing if it suits you.
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Duration:
6 – 7 hours
Location:
Vail, CO (East Vail)
Leadville, CO (Chalk Creek)
Policies
Terms, Conditions, and Cancellation Policy
Contact Us for Large Group bookings.
Potential Topics
- Mountaineering Skills
- Beginner knots
- Knowing your gear
- Proper ice tool use
- Crampon technique, in both French (or flat-footed) and front-pointing methods
- Voice commands, belaying and lowering
- Fundamental ice climbing technique
- Rappelling
- Glissading
Our guides will teach you everything you need to know to ascend these frozen beauties and travel efficiently in the mountains. All ages, abilities, and fitness levels are welcome. We will work with you to select routes that meet your specifics needs and skill set, whether you are a first timer or an experienced ice climber.
Available Daily
Select date on booking calendar above.
Apex Mountain School Provides
- Fully guided ice climbing experience with expert instructors
- Instruction tailored for first-time and beginner climbers
- Climbing gear provided (helmet, harness, boots, crampons, ice tools)
- Safety briefing and equipment overview
- Basic climbing techniques and rope handling skills
- Belaying and lowering instruction
- Coaching on footwork, axe placement, and body positioning
- Practice on beginner-friendly ice routes
- Small group sizes for more personal attention
- Scenic climbing locations in the Vail, Colorado area
- Beacon (rental available)
- *No cotton – cotton does not wick moisture or insulate when wet.
- Synthetic or wool long underwear bottom (thin)
- Synthetic or wool long sleeve top (medium)
- Mid layer top and bottom
- Synthetic or wool socks
- Winter jacket
- Insulated “Puffy” Jacket
- Snow pants
- Warm gloves or mittens
- Hat and neck gaiter or balaclava
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Small day pack
- Water bottle (able to hold 32 oz)
- Food
ALSO CONSIDER
- Hand warmers
- Thermos of hot liquid
- Gaiters
- Extra gloves
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle insulator
- Camera
APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL PROVIDES
- Boots
- Crampons
- Ice Axes
- Helmet
- Harness (42”/44” max)
- Dress in warm, layered clothing – moisture-wicking base, insulated mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell
- Wear insulated gloves or mittens(waterproof and flexible)
- Bring a warm hat or beaniethat fits under a helmet
- Wear thick wool or synthetic socks– avoid cotton
- Pack snacks, water, and a thermos with a warm drink
- Bring sunglasses or ski gogglesfor sun and ice protection
- Use sturdy, waterproof winter bootsif not renting climbing boots
- Be ready for cold, snowy, and wet conditions
Other Outings You Might Like
BRECKENRIDGE ICE CLIMBING
With a variety of routes available, this area offers the perfect ice climbing adventure for climbers of all levels.
COLORADO ICE CLIMBING
Colorado’s ice climbing terrain is legendary, offering pristine frozen waterfalls and stunning alpine routes for adventurers of all levels.
Beginner Ice Climbing
Learn the essentials of ice climbing on frozen waterfalls in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment.
VAIL ICE CLIMBING
Explore Vail’s stunning frozen waterfalls and ice formations, featuring some of the best and most accessible ice climbing on the planet.
Mixed Climbing
Blend ice and rock climbing in this exhilarating sport. Climbers use specialized equipment, including ice axes and crampons, to ascend routes that feature both rock and frozen terrain.
BY LOCATION
Experience ice climbing across Colorado’s premier locations, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking frozen terrain
Contact Us
We’re Happy To Help!
Reach out with any questions
Address
40800 US Highway 6, Unit 7, Avon, CO 81620