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Any quality winter Peaks or Alpine climbing near Ouray in January?

Original Post
John R · · Flatlands · Joined May 2019 · Points: 1

We will be in Ouray next January Ice Climbing in the Ice Park........but looking for other cool climbing options outside the ice park while we are there.

Any quality winter Peaks or Alpine climbing near Ouray in January?

Exiled Michigander · · Unknown Hometown · Joined May 2018 · Points: 252

Mt. Sneffels may be an option depending upon your experience.

Matthew Tangeman · · SW Colorado · Joined May 2015 · Points: 1,113

In the San Juans, generally speaking, there really isn't much technical climbing culminating in a summit. If you want to get on top of something it will most likely end up being a long hike, wallowing in deep snow with high avalanche danger. I'd recommend skis for 99% of the peaks, Sneffels included.

The highest quality "alpine climbing" is probably long routes on Camp Bird Road or Eureka. 

Although, now that I think about it, I have always wanted to do a winter ascent of Lizard Head or Chimney Rock in the Cimarrons. Could be worth looking into!

Bogdan Petre · · West Lebanon, NH · Joined Jul 2012 · Points: 1,162

The avy conditions are unlikely to cooperate. You’re best off focusing on technical ice/mixed climbing in Colorado in January. You’re unlikely to have the snow conditions for the longer routes on camp bird road or in eureka but you can probably get some good mileage on stuff in the skylight area or along the highway between silverton and Ouray. 

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Colorado
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