Tours

Learn to Lead Ice Climbing Course 2
Learn to Lead Ice
from

$549

Season
5/5
Winter-Early Spring
Skill Level
5/5
Challenging
Group Size
5/5
1 Guide per 6
Information
Equipment
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Our Learn to Lead Ice course is designed for climbers ready to take their ice climbing skills to the next level. You’ll master the fundamentals of leading on ice, including anchor building, ice screw and gear placement, lead belaying, and managing risks in challenging winter conditions. 

Under the guidance of AMGA Guidees, you’ll gain confidence on steep ice and practice placing protection on real ice routes. This course is perfect for those with previous top-rope ice climbing experience, looking to develop independence and lead safely. Prepare to step up your climbing in a controlled, supportive environment!

Location
Boulder, Colorado
Duration
2 days, 16 hours
Minimum Eligible Critera
Prerequisites for Learning to Lead Ice Climbing:
Previous Top-Rope Ice Climbing Experience:
Must have completed multiple days of top-rope ice climbing, demonstrating solid technique and comfort on ice.
Basic Ice Climbing Skills: Proficient in ice tool placement, footwork with crampons, and climbing efficiently on steep ice.
Familiarity with Ice Climbing Gear: Experience using ice screws, harnesses, ropes, helmets, and belay devices.
Belaying Experience: Confident in belaying both top-rope and lead climbers.
Understanding of Anchor Systems: Basic knowledge of building secure ice anchors.
Physical Fitness: Adequate strength and endurance for sustained climbing in cold conditions.
Previous Outdoor Climbing Experience: Familiarity with outdoor environments and cold-weather management.
Skilled Covered
  • Leave No Trace Principles and Outdoor Crag Etiquette
  • Equipment overview and proper fit
  • Risk Management Discussion
  • Approach, Climb and Descend the route
  • Fun
Minimum Age
Under 18 will need written consent from parent/guardian
Included
  • AMGA Trained/Certified Guide
  • Group Climbing Equipment
  • Technical Hardware
  • Technical Soft goods
  • Personal Climbing Equipment
  • Climbing Shoes
  • Helmet
  • Harness
Not Included
  • Food
  • Transport
  • Lodging
  • Trip/Cancelation Insurance
  • Non-technical Personal Items
  • Rescue Insurance
  • Park Entrance Fees (if applicable)
  • Guide Gratuity
  • Unforseen Cost Incurred Outside of the Control of SAI
Equipment List

Clothing

Bottom

Cotton or synthetic climbing pants/capri’s
Shorts for hot weather

Top

Fleece or lightweight down sweater
Lightweight wind shell
Water proof rain jacket – lightweight gore-tex or similar
Short-sleeved shirt
(Optional) Sun hoody

Head

Baseball hat – for sun protection

Hands

1 pair of lightweight leather belay gloves – hardware store versions are great

Feet

Sticky rubber approach shoes or light hiking/trail running shoes (closed toe mandatory)
Cotton or Synthetic socks

Technical Equipment 

Harness – UIAA/CE rated climbing harness with belay loop and gear loops.  Should be able to fit on the outside of your layers.
Helmet – UIAA/CE rated climbing helmet.
Belay/rappel device – plaquette, tube style device preferred
2 locking carabiners – large, round stock screw gate carabiners that are easily manipulated while wearing gloves
Sticky rubber rock climbing shoes

*All technical equipment will be provided by SAI, but if you have our own, it’s encouraged that you bring it.

Food

2L of water
800 -1200 calories of food – energy bars, sandwiches, fruits, etc

Personal

Backpack – 25-30L
2 Large mouth water bottles, 1L capacity each.
Lip balm
Sunscreen
Smartphone

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