January 20th, 2026

Park Conditions
Written By Ouray Ice Park

Current Conditions and Open Areas

OPENING DAY IS TOMORROW - January 21st, 2026 - Below is what will be open

Open anchor count:

168

✅ Open areas (with some spot closures)

Deep South - South Park - Two Eyed Dog - New Funtier - School Room - Pick O’ the Vic - Kids Wall - Lead Only - Gazebo Wall

❌ closed areas

Grad School - Between the Bridges - Scottish Gullies - Stump Wall - Five Fingers - Shithouse

⚠️ Please Note

  • Two Eyed Dog & Lead Only Area are LEAD ONLY

  • Ask staff at Dick’s about Dry Tooling specific areas

🧊 Current CONDITIONS

It’s THE report you’ve all been waiting for. We are stoked to announce that Opening Day is this Wednesday (1/21). Our Farmers have been burning the midnight oil and running lots of night operations to make this happen and we can’t wait to see you out here :) 

The phrase of the year is “It’s thin but it’s in”. Although not as fat as most years, the ice is ready to be climbed. The ice on the North end of the gorge (lower bridge) will remain closed but climbers can get out on almost everything South of Dicks.

Some words of wisdom for those coming to climb:

  • Climbs are thinner and more delicate than you might typically experience in the Park.

  • Some climbs may be harder than you remember.

  • Coordinate with climbing parties next to you. Climb at the same speed to avoid knocking ice on each other.

  • Belay from the top if comfortable (required in Pick O’ the Vic) Many routes have fatter tops and thinner bottoms. It is safer for your belayer to be at the top.

Area specific things to note:

  • Lead only areas (Two Eyed Dog and Lead Only) do not have spot closures. Treat those areas as you would backcountry ice. Make sure you are confident in your ability to climb and the quality of the ice before you start the route.

  • Pick O’ the Vic has many climbs that do not touch down. Have good communication with your belayer to ensure you stop where you want to. We recommend using Rocky Talkies to stay in touch easily and respectfully.

We’re so excited to see you all back in the Park. Come say hi to our Rangers at Dick’s Chalet and don’t forget to Become a Member and help support the Park and get in early every day :)

Conditions Gallery

Ouray Ice Park
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January 14th, 2026