Ice Climbing Fundamentals

Season: Winter

Duration: 8 hours

Group size: Up to 2

Locations: Vail or Golden

Description

Our Ice Climbing Fundamentals Course offers an immersive introduction to the thrilling discipline of ice climbing. Designed for beginners and those new to ice climbing, this course covers essential skills such as using crampons and ice tools, proper rope management, belaying techniques, and safe movement on ice.

Under expert guidance, you'll practice climbing on real ice in a controlled environment to build confidence and technique. We emphasize risk management and efficient movement, and will start off the day with a gear check, advice on self care and environmental assessment. Later, we will set up some ice climbing routes where you can practice your skills and receive coaching and practical feedback. At the end of the day there will a final debrief so that you can leave with some takeaways so you can continue to advance your skills outside of this course.

What can you expect from your day

Typical schedule

Note: schedule may change based on location and weather

  • Morning: Arrive at the trailhead (based on location this can be either 5:30am or 7:30am). Perform gear check and morning briefing in the parking lot

  • Mid-morning: Hike to the ice climbing location. This can range between 30 min to 1 hour. Location will change based on the ice quality and weather.

  • Late morning: Introduction to basic ice climbing techniques, self care, belaying and environmental assessment. Set up top ropes

  • Afternoon: Climb ice and practice your techniques.

  • Late afternoon: wrap-up with group debrief and next-step recommendations.d

FAQ

    • Harness

    • Helmet

    • Mountaineering boots

    • Crampons

    • 30L backpack

    • Clothing layers as appropriate to the weather

    • Puffy coat for belaying

    • at least 2 pairs of thin gloves and 1 pair of mittens

    • Snacks/hydration (water bottles, thermos. No bladders since the water tube will freeze)

      Helmets, mountaineering boots, harnesses, crampons are available to rent by request

  • Nope, this course is great for beginners new to any type of climbing!

  • The biggest risk is cold exposure and being unaware of your body’s response to cold. Ice fall and rock fall are also risks. but we will help you understand where to stand to avoid this.

Jesse Tembrevilla Ramos

Owner and Head Guide

Read my bio

Why Hire a Certified Guide?

  • Professional Training & Experience
    AMGA-certified guides bring world-class skills in mountain navigation, safety, and risk management — ensuring you’re in expert hands from start to finish.

  • Customized to You
    We tailor each day based on your fitness, interests, and goals. Whether you're new to hiking or looking to level up, we’ll design the perfect experience.

  • Safety & Logistics Handled
    Route planning, permits, weather assessments, gear recommendations, and emergency preparedness — it’s all taken care of.

  • Learn As You Go
    Gain valuable mountain skills, from efficient hiking techniques to trail navigation, layering systems, and altitude management.

What's Included with all BMG Trips

  • Route planning and customization

  • Safety equipment and group gear

  • Pre-trip consultation (gear, fitness, altitude)

  • Optional transportation and gear rental coordination

All trips are operated with a focus on Leave No Trace ethics, environmental stewardship, and mountain safety.