Climbing

Ice Ice Baby…

Is there really such a thing as too much of the 80′s?  Seriously, tho’ it is time for ice!  The Ouray Ice Festival is right around the corner.  The line-up this year includes several women’s clinics including a beginning clinic taught by Kim Reynolds and an intermediate clinic taught by Angela Hawse.  These two ladies are amazing!  Angela was recently awarded top honor by the American Mountain Guide Association.  Kim has been running Chicks with Picks for years.

If you can’t get into a clinic, you can still demo some gear!  The ice festival has something for everyone — including the spectators as the best of the best clamber to the top in the ice comp.  The little town of Ouray is one of my favorite get-aways — from fresh bagel sandwiches in the morning to edible chocolate mountains complete with ice climbers.  During the festival there is always something going on so grab your favorite belay-slave and head to Ouray Jan 5-8, 2012.

The rock season is coming to a close.  Soon we will don our boots and crampons and head for the icefalls in Ouray and Vail. But before we say goodbye to dirty fingernails and dusty trails, there is still time to get out for a jaunt up a 14er.  With school in session the crowds are low, the peaks are high, and the sun still shines.

When heading up to the mountains this time of year remember layering and rain gear.  It is best to be off the peak by noon to avoid afternoon thunder showers.  And don’t forget your water!

Stay tuned for updates of climbing adventures offered by Pink Ribbon Climbers for the 2012 season.

Have fun!