First Gully

About

First Gully is an ice climbing route located near Silverton, Colorado, on the east face of Peak 12,896. The climb is rated WI3 to WI4, offering moderate difficulty with rolling, lower-angled ice. It consists of approximately 4 to 5 pitches, with the final pitch described as blue and low-angled. The approach involves driving to Eureka Gulch, where the road is often plowed. Climbers can branch off to the left from the car rather than following tracks toward Stairway to Heaven, avoiding a slog through the valley bottom. The route is noted as a 'cruiser' with good views, though ice thickness can vary, presenting thin spots in some sections. Parking is available, and the area is pet-friendly. Typical duration is around 7 hours. Elevation is listed as 11,100 feet in the database, though the peak itself is 12,896 feet.