North Vail Ice

Description 

There are at least three areas with ice climbing in the vicinity of Vail and on the North side of I-70. The most significant area is Booth Creek with its amazing, fragile pillars and gullies basking in the sun. Expect a hump if you want to climb here. However, there are also at least two other climbs, one is just next to the frontage road near the East Vail exit. Another lies just north off the Piney Lake Rd. With the exception of the last climb, all are potentially subject to the kryptonite-like power of the Colorado sun. So, use good judgment and climb on cold, cloudy days.

For the time being, we'll split North Vail Ice into Booth Creek & non-Booth Creek.

The purpose of this extra layer of area is for organizational purposes.

Getting There 

I-70, to the E Vail exit. Go W. For the Booth Creek area, go N at the towards Booth Creek. Park at the end of the road. Check the signs out before leaving your car. Hike, snowshoe, or ski in.

For the Piney Lake Pillar, go to FR 700 (Red Sandstone Rd.) near a tall structure on the N side of the road. Drive through a small subdivision, park at the end of the road where it is gated.

The Classics