OURAY, COLORADO
dexter creek slab WI4
Dec 15th- March 15th
1-Day
Intro
From $525
PRIVATE TRIPS
Winter 27’ Live
EXPLORE THE OURAY ICE SCENE
DISCOVER
| OVERVIEW |
At WI4, Dexter Creek Slab offers a nice glimpse into the world of multi-pitch ice climbing while providing good belay ledges that take the edge off the day. Not only is this a fantastic adventure route for newer ice climbers, it is also one of the best educational routes to learn and practice skills for those seeking to develop their own lead climbing abilities.
Let our team guide you through the fun, exciting, and challenging world of ice climbing and build an unmatched bond only the mountains can create!
Experience the thrill of ice climbing in Ouray’s famous San Juan Mountains. Dexter Creek Slabs is an excellent introduction to backcountry ice with comfortable belays, steep ice, and a beautiful open view into Ridgeway, Colorado.
| GALLERY |
| ITINERARY AND PREP |
Pre-Course call
Our team will schedule a call before your trip. They will discuss the itinerary, review gear needs, and share a general time plan for the trip. This is also a great way to ask any questions about the day!
The trip
You will meet your guide in the early morning at the Artisan Bakery & Cafe, in Ouray on weekdays, or Kami’s Samis on the weekends. With a hot drink in hand you and your guide will share a quick day’s itinerary then drive the 10 minutes to the trailhead.
From the trailhead, expect about a 45min approach, mostly up a road cut, but then up a stepper drainage for the latter half of the hike.
This day is all about you and your goals. Enjoy the climbing and ask questions as the day progresses.
Evening
After a solid day on route, it’s time to grab some food in Ouray. Pick a local spot with your guide, enjoy some great food, and relish in a hard days work with the warmth of town and new friends made.
Technical Experience
Basic climbing skills such as knowing how to tie in and belaying a leader are a must. It is also important to feel comfortable climbing WI4 on a top rope without the need to take on the rope.
Fitness
Solid physical fitness is required. Ice climbing is an endurance pursuit, oftentimes requiring extensive time holding onto ice tools cleaning and clearing ice on route to achieve adequate tools placements. Climbers should be able to hike and climb for approximately 8 hours while carrying a small pack.
VIEWS FROM DEXTERS
MID-ROUTE ON DEXTERS
| WHATS INCLUDED |
- Group climbing equipment
- Personal climbing equipment: helmet, harness, ice axes, crampons, small multi-pitch backpack
- Certified guides
- Ice boots
- Lodging in Ouray
- Transportation to the venue
- Tips for guides
WINTER ON DEXTERS
EASY BEGINNING SLABS
| PRICING DETAILS |
OURAY, COLORADO
dexter creek slabs WI4
Dec 15th - March 15th
1-Day
Intro
Single: $525
Partners: $340 Per Person
Private trips
Winter 27’ Live
| QUESTIONS |
dexter creek slabs.
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Ouray Mountain Sports offers ice boot rentals in the town of Ouray. We can accompany you when you arrive in town to pick up boots if you need them.
Please book your boots in advance.
If your trip is set to begin in the A.M. you are typically able to pickup your rental after 5 P.M. the night before. If you would like to make a special early morning pickup request there is an additional fee ($20) at the shop.
***All gear is provided except mountain boots.
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If you are comfortably climbing WI3, YES!
Dexter Creek Slabs is a great intro to backcountry ice climbing route because of the moderate climbing grade, ease of climbing commitment, and nice belay ledges.
If you are looking for a great starter multi-pitch route to learn and practice skills, like descending ice, this is also a perfect option.
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Yes, we provide the following gear at no charge. Helmet, harness, ice tools, crampons, screws, and a small multi-pitch backpack. We can also provide additional climbing equipment such as carabiners and a belay device upon request.
While booking you can provide your gear needs via our booking questionnaire or you can email climb@smilemountainguides.com with personal gear requests.
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Please click here to review our domestic cancellation policy.
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Best Places to Stay:
Great pricing, friendly service, and you can have a whole house suite.
Twin Peaks Lodge and Hot Springs
Great atmosphere and hot springs located just off the main street close to the Ouray Ice Park.
You will notice there are many other Hotels, Inns, and AirBnB options in town at most budgets options.
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Cafes and Restaurants:
The best pastry and cafe spot in town!
High-end western Americana dining with a good wine selection.
Need a good burger or sandwich? Here you go!
Local pub sporting a great small-town atmosphere and no-fuss beer selection.
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Please email:
climb@smilemountainguides.com for more information about this program.