Story: Ouray Ice Park
Presenter: Stevie Jacobs
Broadcast Date: 14 June 2025

Just a short walk from the historic town of Ouray, this former gold and silver mining hub in the San Juan Mountains is now home to the world’s largest man-made ice climbing park—and it’s free to the public.

• The Ouray Ice Park began in 1994 with a bit of ingenuity: excess spring water, irrigation pipes, and over 250 ordinary sprinklers create thick ice walls along the chilly Uncompahgre Gorge every winter. It’s part science, part art, and completely awe-inspiring.
• Stretching nearly two miles, the park features more than 100 ice and mixedclimbing routes, catering to both first timers and seasoned climbers. From kids’ walls to vertical icefalls, there’s something here for everyone—including Aussie beginners trying it for the first time!
• Managed by the non-profit Ouray Ice Park Inc., the park stays open thanks to donations, volunteers, and its flagship event, the Ouray Ice Festival, held every January. This festival brings together climbers from around the world for competitions, clinics, and winter fun.
• New to the sport? Outfits like Mountain Trip provide expert instruction and all the gear you need to give ice climbing a go—even if you’ve never seen snow before. It’s a fantastic way to safely try something completely out of the ordinary.
• In 2024, the park celebrated its 30th anniversary. From pro climbers like Jonathan Zaug to wide-eyed travellers, the Ouray Ice Park has become a beloved winter destination that blends adventure, community, and icy beauty in one unforgettable place.

For more information:
Visitouray.com