Elevation: 6,686 ft
GPS: 40.4172, -105.3724
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Page Views: 30,710 total · 108/month
Shared By: Andrew Gram on Nov 29, 1999
Admins: Leo Paik, John McNamee, Frances Fierst, Monty, Monomaniac, Tyler KC

Description

The ice in Big Thompson Canyon is some of the more popular ice in Colorado. The easy approach and very nice moderate climbing make this a good place to learn to climb or lead. There are two, regularly-forming, distinct pitches here with a short but fun step along the approach. In addition, there are more ice climbs that can form in the vicinity of the Beige Siphon Tube and the next 1.5 miles upstream with the right conditions. Definitely can be a fun place, especially for locals. It may not be worth the drive for non-locals.

Getting There

Big Thompson Canyon is along US 34 between Loveland and Estes Park. To reach the ice, look for the handicapped fishing access sign. The ice is fairly high on the hillside on the south side of the canyon near here. Crossing the Big Thompson is the crux in early season before the river is frozen over.

Link to Big Thompson Canyon rock

Webcams

You may find this webcam helpful to look at conditions: cotrip.org/roadConditions.htm. Click on the camera icon.

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