Our classic ice climbs high on the north face of Pikes Peak will challenge and amaze you. Stunning 4-5 pitch ice and mixed routes that come into condition early season and hang around late into the spring. These high alpine ice routes are our guides favorites.

We’ll depart Colorado Springs at 7am and drive the Pikes Peak Highway to 13,000′. Our 50 minute approach starts with the Hero Traverse. This approach consists of a descending ledge system above the stunning western edge of the Bottomless Pit.  This appetizing warm-up peaks your interest and tests your footwork in a dramatic alpine setting. The Hero Traverse terminates at the Corinthian Column, and the base of our objective. Pikes Peak snow melt and summer rainwater is continually delivering drips of water on either side of the Corinthian Column, in turn forming ice thin and sometimes fat for climbing. Total Abandon and Blind Assumption are alpine classics for sure. Even with a short approach and descent this can be an 8+ hour day.  If the Pikes Peak Highway is closed, our approach can be more like 3-4 hours, much like an approach in Rocky Mountain National Park. The highway approach makes this day much more Euro/Alps in nature.

CLIMBER TO GUIDE RATIOS, PRICES:
Prices are per person, per day

1 climbers : 1 guide
$569

2 climbers : 1 guide
$359

Maximum: 2 climbers to 1 guide ratio for advanced ice

*Pikes Peak Highway tollgate fee of $15/person not included.

Client Expectations:
Prior WI4 ice climbing experience is necessary.

Equipment Provided:
Must provide own climbing gear. Rental available.

Locations:

Two classic alpine multi-pitch ice routes. Routes in condition September-November and April-June.

• Total Abandon– 3 pitches. Often a better autumn climb.
• Blind Assumption– 4 pitches. Often a better spring climb.