photos by Stephen Eginoire

Its been over 35 years since the first generation of crusty climbers started swingin their tools on the frozen waterfalls of the Uncompahgre Gorge, in Ouray. Since then, The Ouray Ice Park, as its known, has slowly developed into the most extensive ice climbing destination in the world. Thanks to the dedication of the entirely volunteer-based work force, donated materials and capital, the Ice Park is now home to nearly 200 routes. And as the days get longer and the thermometer rises, theres still plenty of ice left for those individuals jonezin for an end-of-the-season ice climbing adventure.