GROUP ICE CLIMBING
Enjoy the thrill of ice climbing with friends, colleagues, or group members on a private guided adventure. Our group ice climbing trips provide an exciting team-building experience.
- Customizable trips for group sizes and abilities
- Ideal for corporate outings, team-building, or group events
- Safe and supportive instruction for all levels
- Access to Colorado’s best ice climbing locations
Winter Guided
Group Ice Climbing
Who can join a group ice climbing trip?
Anyone aged 12 and up can join! No experience is needed — beginners are welcome.
What equipment is provided?
We provide all the climbing gear, including boots, crampons, helmets, ice tools, and harnesses.
What activities are included?
Each session features climbing, knot tying, belaying basics, Leave No Trace, outdoor navigation, and more—blended with age-appropriate fun and adventure.
What should we wear or bring?
Wear warm winter clothes in layers, gloves, and a hat. Bring water, snacks, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Testimonials
Group Ice Climbing
In Winter, cascading waterfalls and trickling alpine flows freeze and form fantastically beautiful and surreal ice climbs. These one of a kind sculptures offer phenomenal climbing opportunities and a chance to experience a truly unique and unforgettable adventure. These climbs range in height between 30 to 100+ feet.
Given the nature of the medium, each climb forms slightly differently each year and is subject to change throughout the season, offering climbers a new experience every climb. With expansive views of Colorado’s Rockies and a chance to challenge yourself in a winter wonderland, ice climbing is a great way to spend the day in the mountains.
Group Ice Climbing in Vail, Colorado is a popular choice for large family outings, government agencies and ice climbing team building events. Stepping outside of your group’s circle of comfort and challenging each other climbing on the frozen ice falls of Vail, Colorado strengthens ties, increases trust in one another and creates amazing memories of the Colorado Rockies.
Team Building
If it’s a team building activity you’re after, the success of groups and organizations depends on individuals working together as a team to unlock hidden potential, and there’s no doubt about this environment’s ability to unlock potential. Apex can help corporate groups work together to improve teamwork, communication, problem solving, productivity, and motivation. If you’re interested in learning more about corporate group adventures, you might also appreciate our team building events.
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.
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Duration:
6 – 7 hours
Location:
Vail, CO
Clear Creek County, CO
Summit County, CO
Leadville, CO
Policies
Terms, Conditions, and Cancellation Policy
Contact Us for Large Group bookings.
Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Ice Climbing journey. Reserve your spot through the calendar below, or for more information, call us at (970) 949-9111 or visit our contact page.
If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call—our team can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility. Let’s get you out in the snow!
Welcome and Safety Briefing
Introduction to the day’s plan, group safety protocols, and key objectives for team-building and adventure.
Gear Setup and Introduction
Fitting participants with helmets, harnesses, crampons, ice tools, and boots, followed by gear-use guidance.
Foundational Climbing Techniques
Demonstration of ice-tool swings, safe footwork, body positioning, and managing ice terrain.
Safety and Belaying Skills
Cover belay techniques, rope safety protocols, partner communication, and group climbing etiquette.
Hands On Climbing Practice
Guided ascents on frozen waterfalls or ice walls suited to the group’s overall ability, with direct coaching from guides.
Team Challenges and Collaboration
Exercises to build trust and teamwork as participants take turns climbing and belaying for each other.
Technique Reinforcement and Feedback
Iterative practice with real-time adjustments, punctuated by short group reflections and coaching tips.
Debrief and Wrap Up
Group discussion reviewing skills learned, celebrating achievements, gathering feedback, and featuring a team photo opportunity.
Available Daily
Select date on booking calendar above.
Apex Mountain School Provides
- Ice tools (axes)
- Crampons
- Climbing boots
- Harnesses
- Helmets
Access to group-friendly ice climbing locations near Vail
Safety briefing and orientation for the entire group
What to Bring
- 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)
Preparation
- Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers (base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof outer layer)
- Wear thick wool or synthetic socks to stay warm in climbing boots
- Bring a warm hat or beanie that fits under a helmet
Other Outings You Might Like
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.
Vail Backcountry Skiing
Vail, Colorado is a top international skiing destination with world-renowned skiing, in and out-of-bounds, or Vail Backcountry Skiing).
Winter 14er Peak Ascents
Take on the challenge of ascending a 14,000-foot peak during the winter season.
Contact Us
We’re Happy To Help!
Reach out with any questions
Address
40800 US Highway 6, Unit 7, Avon, CO 81620