Guided ICE CLIMBING NEAR DENVER, Colorado

Embark on an incredible ice climbing adventure with alpine to the max

Join Alpine to the Max for a fully-guided ice climbing experience to test your physical & mental limits in the harsh winter climate of the Rockies. Whether you're a seasoned ice climber looking to level up your skills or a beginner looking to break into the sport, Alpine to the Max offers custom ice climbing trips near Denver that results in an unparalleled winter climbing experience.

Photo of Max Lurie ice climbing near Denver

Alpine to the max is a top-rated guided ice climbing service near denver, colorado

Get ready for an ice climbing experience like no other! With Alpine to the Max and lead guide Max Lurie, you won't be just another climber on a cookie-cutter course.

With over a decade of experience leading climbs and providing expert-level instruction, we'll help you plan out a day of ice climbing near Denver based on your experience level and objective for the day.

From beginners just wanting to have a fun day of ice climbing outside Denver to experienced climbers searching for the next big challenge, Alpine to the Max offers a 100% custom guided ice climbing experience completely tailored to you.

escape denver for a day by going ice climbing in a winter wonderland

Living in Denver gives you access to some of the top ice climbing spots Colorado has to offer. Ice climbing near Denver provides a great way to escape the City during the winter months while giving yourself an immense winter challenge.

Alpine to the Max can guide you on all of the top ice climbing spots near Denver such as Clear Creek Canyon and Rocky Mountain National Park. While ice climbing is heavily dependent on having the correct weather conditions, Alpine to the Max provides custom ice climbing instruction during the months of January - March.

Based on your objective for the day and past experience, one of our AMGA-certified guides will help you plan out a full day of ice climbing to help you achieve your goals.

WHY SHOULD I Ice CLIMB in Colorado WITH ALPINE TO THE MAX VERSUS OTHER ICE CLIMBING GUIDE SERVICES?

While other ice climbing guides only offer pre-determined day packages, Alpine to the Max believes that the most effective climbing instruction only happens when the day is custom-tailored to the individual or small group going on the climb.

As such, when you hire Alpine to the Max for a day of ice climbing near Denver, you can be sure that you will be getting not only world-class climbing instruction from an independent instructor, but also a climbing experience specifically customized to you.

The hands-on-instruction you will receive when ice climbing near Denver with Alpine to the Max is second to none. So many of our past climbers who schedule a climb only wanting a fun day in the mountains have said the came away with so much more. Over 100 people have left 5-star reviews testifying to their experience ice climbing near Denver with Alpine to the Max.

For intermediate and advanced ice climbers looking to accomplish a specific objective, improve their skills in a certain area, or advance past a certain plateau, the personalized instruction you will receive is guaranteed to help you get to the next level.

expert ice climbing instruction that's customized to you

Browse Ice Climbing Courses
Arrow Icon for Link

Alpine to the Max offers guided climbing instruction across rock, alpine, and ice climbing disciplines. With us you can train year round and experience the world's greatest mountain ranges from a vantage point reserved for only the most adventurous climbers.

Intro to ice climbing

Explore the thrill of icy adventures with our Intro to Ice Climbing Course! Learn the basics of scaling frozen waterfalls and feel your confidence soar as you gain the necessary skills to ice climbing like a pro.

intro to Mountaineering

From learning the basics of layering and assembling a proper crampon/boot combination to practical advice on how to use them, this course will equip you with everything you need for your next mountaineering adventure.

custom ice objectives

Reach a custom objective with Alpine to the Max! We understand that everyone's skill level and goals are different, so we offer personalized trips to help you achieve any ice climbing objective you have in mind.

Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue

Get equipped with the necessary knowledge for safe glacier travel, such as rope work and self-arrest techniques. Learn how to recognize potential crevasses and steps for rescuing a partner if they fall into one. Our course will give you the confidence to tackle mountains like Mount Rainier or Denali.

learn to lead

Conquer your ice climbing dreams by taking the leap to lead climbing! With over a decade of expertise in leading, Max is well-equipped to guide and support intermediate climbers on their journey. This course will teach you the knowledge needed to become a masterful lead ice climber.

multi pitch ice

Our specialized course in multi-pitch ice is designed for experienced climbers looking to make their mark on big mountains. Get equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle technical routes. Reach new heights as you master the art of multi-pitch ice climbing.

REad what our Ice climbers say about Alpine to the max

Browse Ice Climbing Courses
Arrow Icon for Link

From experienced ice climbers to outdoor enthusiasts just looking for a thrilling experience, Alpine to the Max has quickly become a go-to destination for memorable climbing experiences near Denver. With over 100 five star reviews on Google, see for yourself what people are saying about their experience.

star
star
star
star
star

“I climbed with Max last summer on a couple of couloirs in Rocky Mountain National Park. I’m a complete newbie to technical snow and Max was everything that I was hoping for in a guide. Knowledgeable, patient and passionate about educating his clients. It was a fantastic experience and I cannot wait to go back out with him.”

William Rosenberg
star
star
star
star
star

“Max is easily one of the best guides I have ever taken a course with. Max's knowledge paired with his experience and skill set is unparalleled. I learned so much and I am so grateful to have taken a course with him! Max provided the education and knowledge I needed to continue recreating safely in the mountains.”

Nichola Krieg
star
star
star
star
star

“Max was an amazing guide and instructor for our 2-day AIARE 1 course. Funny, affable, deeply knowledgeable, with an excellent approach to instruction and learning. We saw several other AIARE courses out there in the same locations, and in comparison, we were VERY glad we were spending our weekend learning from Max!

Dylan Cate
star
star
star
star
star

Max is awesome! My climbing partner and I booked a day with Max to learn how to ice climb. Between making the meetup spot an easy to find location, to providing in-depth instruction throughout the day, I can't recommend Max enough. Max's instruction was clear, safe, and easy to follow. He's personable and easy to learn from.

star
star
star
star
star

What an awesome experience. My friend and I spent four days with Max going through a variety of topics and we couldn't have been happier with the instruction. Max is SO well versed in a multitude of areas. And he's an awesome person to be around and it makes the guiding experience that much better. I would 100% do another session with Max!

star
star
star
star
star

We strongly recommend Max as a guide and instructor. Having climbed with Max several times over the past decade, we always come away with a great experience and a smile. His enthusiasm and knowledge, plus a wry sense of humor, make for instructive and fun days of climbing. We hope to get out to CO to climb someday with Max again.

star
star
star
star
star

It was awesome. We covered a ton of material in such a short window and I was able to apply everything I learned. I had pretty minimal experience at the start but he delivered everything in a super easy to understand manner that made it a ton of fun and extremely informative. I’ll definitely be coming back for future sessions.

star
star
star
star
star

Max was incredibly helpful for our intro to trad course. He not only teaches the information, but makes sure to go over alternative techniques and general climbing philosophy. We were able to customize the class that day to go over things that interested us rather than a set curriculum, which I really enjoyed. I couldn’t recommend Max enough.

star
star
star
star
star

I had very limited climbing experience coming into this guided rock climbing experience. Max takes me out and we literally jump right into my introduction to climbing. Max literally inspired me to get out of my comfort zone immediately and go beyond what I thought I was capable of. Thank you Max for an awesome experience in the mountains.

star
star
star
star
star

Max is an outstanding guide! I couldn’t have asked for a better day of climbing and learning. I joined Max in hopes of setting a solid foundation of skills and knowledge in my own climbing endeavors to come, and I was beyond satisfied with the day he had prepared for us. An incredible instructor and ideal climbing partner!

star
star
star
star
star

Max is adept, knowledgeable, and great to work with all around! He breaks down skills and explains them thoroughly, taking the time to make sure you understand a concept before moving on to something more complex. If you want to up your technical climbing skills and have a darn good time doing it then Max is your guy!

star
star
star
star
star

Max was extremely knowledge and encouraging while we were learning and practicing building anchors and hauling for crevasse rescue. He also had a great sense of humor and kept the mood light while we were suffering through brutally cold temperatures during the practice. 10/10 would recommend!

star
star
star
star
star

My partner and I hired Max for a day of self rescue skills and we had an absolute blast. Max is super knowledgeable and was more than patient answering all of our questions. We never felt rushed and had time to go through different scenarios and skills. I really enjoyed learning from a professional and would recommend to anyone!

star
star
star
star
star

Max was a terrific mountain guide. We did a split-board tour of the Hidden Valley area of Rock Mtn National Park and I couldn’t have had asked for a better guide. He answered all of my questions and expressed great knowledge in snow science as well as mountain geology and avalanche safety. Highly recommend!

star
star
star
star
star

I spent a day learning trad/multipitch climbing with Max in a "classroom setting". The dollars I spent on that session have been more valuable than any climbing trip or equipment. The techniques he taught me have stuck with me throughout my climbing career and set me up for success in the mountains.

Meet Your Ice Climbing Guide

Max Lurie is a top-rated ice climbing guide near denver, co

Max Lurie is an American Mountain Guides Association certified rock and alpine guide with over a decade of experience providing custom climbing instruction. He is located just outside Denver and provides custom climbing instruction across the metro area.

Max honed his ice climbing skills guiding the classic multi-pitch ice routes in Crawford Notch during some bitterly cold New England winter months and has summited Mount Rainier nearly 100 times.

Max now leads guided ice climbs in Colorado near Rocky Mountain National Park and Clear Creek Canyon in the winter months.

Click the button below to watch a short video about Max Lurie and Alpine to the Max.

Learn More
Photo of Max Lurie - Colorado ice climbing guide

explore the venues where we ice climb near denver & BOulder

Browse Ice Climbing Courses
Arrow Icon for Link

Some of the top ice climbing venues in the United States are located just a short 60-90 minute drive away from Denver and Boulder. Below are the main ice climbing venues Alpine to the Max regularly guides at. Custom ice climbing trips can also be arranged upon request.

Clear Creek Canyon

With some of the best sport climbing around, this location is also ideal for winter climbers - specifically beginners looking to lead. There are plenty of ice climbs that form in the colder months, making Clear Creek Canyon an ideal spot to learn how to ice climb near Denver.

Learn More

Rocky Mountain National Park

Ready to challenge yourself in the world-renowned Rocky Mountain National Park? Home to some of the most breathtaking mountaineering and ice climbing opportunities, explore incredible terrain while you hone your ice climbing skills with Alpine to the Max.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions about ice climbing near denver

Are you ready to embark upon a winter adventure? Ice climbing is an incredible way to challenge yourself and explore the great outdoors just outside Denver. Before taking the plunge, make sure you're prepared for what's ahead by reviewing some essential Q&As here about safety and preparation before going ice climbing.

What Months is Ice Climbing In Season?
expand_more
It can really depend on the venue and season, ice climbing is inherently ephemeral in nature. Meaning it can be really great and disappear in 24 hours depending on the weather/conditions. That being said, ice climbing in North America is usually good from January through March. You can extend those months if you go up in elevation or travel farther north.
Can I Go Ice Climbing With No Prior Rock Climbing Experience?
expand_more
Yes, you can climb ice without any previous rock climbing experience. However, it is recommended to learn the basics of belaying, tying in and top rope climbing first. There are a lot of variables in ice climbing and to get the most out of your experience, it is best to have some prior knowledge.
Is Ice Climbing Any More Dangerous Than Rock Climbing?
expand_more
Yes, there are certainly more variables in ice climbing than rock climbing. It is a harsh winter environment that presents its own challenges. With the proper instruction, equipment and clothing the risks can be managed quite well.
HOW LONG IS A DAY OF ICE CLIMBING?
expand_more
The length of a day really depends on where we go and what our objectives are. For a big alpine day of ice climbing, it could be upwards of 12 hours. For a day of top roping or an intro course, it is usually 6-8 hours long.
WHAT GEAR DO I NEED TO GO ICE CLIMBING?
expand_more
Any winter activity does have a high barrier to entry for initial equipment. Alpine to the Max has a full fleet of crampons, ice tools, ice axes, harnesses and helmets. You will need to provide the rest. Namely, appropriate mountaineering boots and winter clothing. Every outing is different and we will set you up for success if you have any clothing questions before your scheduled outing.
IS ICE CLIMBING AVAILABLE IN The Denver/Boulder Metro area?
expand_more
Not in Boulder itself, but not far from it. There are several places to ice climb in the surrounding hills to the north and even south of Boulder.
CAN I GO ICE CLIMBING WITH A GROUP?
expand_more
Most definitely, learning to ice climb with a group of friends can be a really great and memorable experience. Not to mention that the price of tuition goes down per person with increased participants.