Cracked Canyon Ice

About

Cracked Canyon Ice is a rock climbing destination near Telluride, Colorado, featuring moderate difficulty routes. The site sits at 10,951 feet and typically requires about five hours to complete. Parking is available at a turnout marked by a yellow 10 mph sign, and pets are permitted. The area offers year-round accessibility from January to December. Climbers should expect variable trail conditions, particularly on the steep approach through a washed-out canyon floor with loose scree and boulders. The climbing itself consists of quality single-pitch routes, utilizing both traditional gear placement and bolted lines. The main ice feature is a 250-foot flow that climbs mixed rock and ice, requiring screws and a trad rack. Southern exposure necessitates starting early in the day. The route includes two pitches, leading to a headwall with solid rock above.