SUCAP Ice Trip

This morning I had the pleasure of guiding a very different group, kids! It is really fun to work with young folks who are excited to explore ice climbing. These particular kids from Ignacio, CO came as a part of a Southern Ute Community Action Program (SUCAP) trip. SUCAP is dedicated to supporting the community of Igancio and communities across La Plata County.

The trip to ice climb in Ouray with the crew here at San Juan Mountain Guides is one of several designed to give the kids access to the exciting recreation right in their backyards. It was fun to watch the kids beam as they met their friends at the end of the day who had opted for more horizontal recreation . The kids displayed such pride at having tried something new, overcome their fears, and set and accomplished goals they set for themselves.

San Juan Ice Climbing

My old friend Paul is back in town for w tune up before our annual Canada pilgrimage. It has been super rewarding watching Paul develop over the last few seasons. This trip we started at the Skylight area, ticking all the major flows. 

Paul coming up into the upper chimney on Slippery When Wet.

 After that we tackled the Ribbon in good alpine conditions. Then he climbed Whorehouse with Kevin. Today we went over and climbed Bridalveil Falls. Super trip so far!

Finishing up around the awkward traverse into the 1st belay.

Bridalveil Falls WI5- 2/17/11

Looking strong Paul!

Cheers, CC

Cascade Falls

Its been cold in Ouray, like everywhere else... Here that means you get to climb Cascade Falls.

Dawn Glanc headed up 8th ave this morning with David K. to have a look. There was the obligatory funk section surmounting the cone, but all in all it looked pretty fun!