There is nothing inconvenient about this
ice climb adventure.
Located an easy distance from town
Just a short walk from the heart of downtown
Telluride, Bear Creek Preserve and canyon offers the visitor and local
alike a multitude of ice climbing opportunities.
Preserved by the city, Bear Creek, is
recognized as a environmental area that is fed from an under ground aquifer
above the peak. The ice falls here naturally form and are great from January
through March for ice climbing.
Equipment intensive, having a guide
who not only knows the area but understands ice climbing is key.
This route was a III+, and gave us
a good work out.
For our excursion we visited the lower
portion of Bear Creek where several challenging climbs exist ranging from
class III to class V in difficulty.
Mark Davis making it look easy near
the top.
There are over one-hundred ice climbs
that surround the Telluride area, and some that are a challenging trip
to reach. Which makes Telluride a destination for ice climbers world wide.
This and many other views surround the
area.
As daylight faded, the canyon was a nice
refuge that felt pristine and inviting. The accomplishment of completing
climbs is unmatched. Mixing ice into the equation, makes it that much
more memorable.
A great option for lodging during your
visit to Telluride is the New Sheraton Hotel. They offer affordable rates
with outstanding service, great location, hot tubs, a great breakfast
and everything to make your visit a good one: (800) 200-1891 (970) 728-4351
or www.newsheridan.com
* Feature written
and photographed by Phillips, March 2003. All information
regarding aquifer, and surrounding climbs was porvided by Telluride Mountain
guides and Ryder Walker Adventures.
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