GROUP ICE CLIMBING
Experience the unique thrill of vertical ice with your friends and family. Our professionally guided group trips offer a high-energy environment perfect for celebrating special occasions, embarking on fun adventures, and conquering new challenges in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
- Customizable trips for all group sizes and abilities
- The premier choice for bachelor and bachelorette parties, wedding groups, and unforgettable family reunions.
- Safe and supportive instruction for all levels
- Access to Colorado’s best ice climbing locations
Winter Guided
Group Ice Climbing
Who is group ice climbing for?
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 is the experience like?
Your trip includes professional technical instruction, comprehensive safety briefings, and multiple vertical ascents on natural ice formations tailored to your group’s ability.
What should we wear or bring?
Wear warm winter clothing layers, gloves, and a hat. Bring water, snacks, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Testimonials
Group Ice Climbing
In the winter, Colorado’s cascading waterfalls transform into breathtaking, surreal ice sculptures. These natural formations range from 30 to over 100 feet, offering a world-class playground for a truly unforgettable adventure. Because the “medium” changes every year based on the freeze-thaw cycle, every climb offers a fresh perspective and a new challenge.
Group Ice Climbing in Vail is a top-tier choice for large family outings and milestone celebrations. Stepping outside your comfort zone to scale these frozen giants strengthens bonds, fosters mutual encouragement, and creates shared memories that last a lifetime.
Group Connection & Social Events Memorable social outings and large gatherings thrive on shared adventure and collective accomplishment. Apex helps groups foster deeper connections and create lasting memories through the exhilarating challenge of the vertical environment. Our Professionally Trained and/or Certified Guides/Instructors provide expert oversight as your group explores new heights and pushes personal boundaries together.
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 above, 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!
Our group ice climbing itineraries are designed to maximize your time on the ice while ensuring a fun, progressive learning environment.
Meet & Greet: Gather at our office for a gear check and safety overview.
Approach: A brief, scenic hike to the frozen waterfalls where our guides will have ropes pre-set for your group.
Safety & Technical Briefing: Learn essential movement patterns, how to use ice axes and crampons effectively, and fundamental techniques.
Climbing Sessions: Spend the majority of your 6–7 hours rotating through various “top-rope” routes of varying difficulties.
Coaching & Development: Receive real-time feedback from our expert guides to refine your technique as you ascend vertical ice walls ranging from 30 to over 100 feet.
Wrap-Up: Debrief the day’s successes and transition back to the trailhead.
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
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