The Ouray Ice Park is a world-renowned, man-made ice climbing venue located in the Uncompahgre Gorge, just a short walk from downtown Ouray. It features over 200 ice and mixed climbing routes. As of February 2026, the park is fully open for the season. Cost & Access Admission: Climbing in the park is free for the public. Support: As a nonprofit operation, the park relies on donations and memberships (starting at approx. $65) to fund "ice farmers" who maintain the routes. Viewing: There is no charge to watch climbers from the bridges or designated viewing areas. Key Rules & Requirements Safety Gear: Helmets and crampons are required for anyone entering "climber only" areas, including the bottom of the gorge. Time Limits: To ensure fair access, groups may occupy a single route for a maximum of three hours. Pets: Dogs must be leashed at all times and are strictly prohibited from going below the top of the gorge (they cannot enter the canyon floor). Minors: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and a waiver must be signed.
Ouray Ice Park
It is a free, public park that is home to more than 150 named ice and mixed climbs, spanning almost 2 miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge.
Reviews
Fun place to visit, icy by Thanksgiving. Park across the main highway, no parking directly at entrance--look at Google maps first and you'll see what I mean. Dogs only allowed in the Top area, per the sign. It was icy when we went so we didn't go far.
My photos do not give this park an accurate experience. If you ice climb this park is for you!! About a mile of canyon to climb on. Easy access.
I had the amazing opportunity to traverse the via ferrata in the Ice Park. I was with a group and had a guide with us. I didn't find it challenging, but some in the group did, but I regularly hike and workout, so I'm sure that made a difference. This was an awesome experience. I actually considered renting equipment and doing it again the next day. It was a great course with so many beautiful views. I can't recommend this enough. I would say that I have a "healthy fear" of heights, just meaning that I'm not unsafe when in a situation involving heights, and I felt very safe the entire time.
Spent a week in Ouray and walking to the park for climbing. Most were full days and it was a blast. Every section of the park offers different terrain and challenges. The ice was fantastic. I would strongly recommend some hand warmers for long belays, the canyon is nothing if not cold 🥶 The park definitely gets busy especially on weekends. Early bird gets the worm.
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