Learn to Lead Ice

This advanced ice climbing course is built for experienced climbers who are already confident in their technique and ready to take the next step into leading. You’ll learn how to properly stage your belayer, give a solid lead belay, and place ice screws based on changing ice quality. Instruction includes building safe climbing and rappel anchors using screws and threads, managing your rack efficiently while leading, and understanding how to control anxiety and maintain safety when you're on the sharp end. By refining these skills, you’ll gain the awareness and judgment needed to tackle beginner-level lead climbs with confidence.

Training takes place in reliable ice areas such as Lake City Ice Park, Clear Creek Canyon, and North Cheyenne Canyon—venues known for quality ice and ideal learning terrain. Because leading ice involves significantly more risk than toproping or leading on rock, climbers should arrive with several seasons of toproping experience and strong movement skills. This course gives you the foundation to evaluate ice quality, build solid protection, and develop the mental preparedness essential for leading, helping you open the door to a wider range of ice climbs.