Ouray, Ice Climb 19th January 2011

Drove from Grand Junction via Montrose to Ouray, Colorado, an historic small town set like jewel in the spectacular San Juan mountain range.

Above Ouray we drove into the mountains along the Camp Bird mine road and then hiked through the powder snow to the Skylight climbing area.

James checks out the routes..........

....and then Chris leads off up a first tricky pitch on "Skylight", a three pitch route WI4/5

The big second pitch was led by James. A magnificent pitch of ice set in a dramatic chimney cleft in sheer basalt walls.

Shot of james nearing the top where the ice narrows and was very brittle.

Chris reaching the top of the big second pitch.

The short final pitch was led by Chris, a steep step and final overhang.
A truly magnificent ice climb in splendid setting.