Last Chance at the Ouray Ice Park: Late Season Climbing
The Ouray Ice Park is a one-of-a-kind destination — a man-made ice climbing park in the Uncompahgre Gorge in Ouray, about 90 minutes north of Durango. It's free, it's open to the public, and it's absolutely worth the drive.
What Is It
The Ice Park consists of ice walls built by spraying water onto the natural rock walls of the gorge. The result is hundreds of ice climbing routes ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level. It's the largest man-made ice climbing park in the world.
Late Season
The park typically operates from mid-December through mid-March, depending on temperatures. Late season means the ice is at its thickest, the routes are well-formed, and the days are longer and warmer. It's actually a great time to try climbing for the first time — you're not freezing your hands off.
For Beginners
Several Ouray outfitters offer guided beginner ice climbing experiences. They provide all the gear — ice tools, crampons, helmets, ropes — and teach you the basics. No experience needed. It's an incredible rush to climb a wall of ice, even if you only go 20 feet up.
The Day Trip
The drive from Durango to Ouray on US-550 (the Million Dollar Highway) is spectacular. Combine ice climbing with a soak at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool for a perfect day trip. Climb in the morning, soak in the afternoon.
Both of our Purgatory townhomes — Basecamp and Timberline — are right across from the resort with hot tubs, EV chargers, and free shuttle access.
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability at purgatory.pretzinger.com
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability and book direct — save 10-15% vs Airbnb/VRBO.
