On Sunday, I went ice climbing with Doug, Rick, and Slava. It was a gorgeous day at Loch Vale, in Rocky Mountain National Park. We were treated to perfect ice climbing conditions. It was my third ice climbing trip and, by far, the most fun!
In the ice cave!
Photo Courtesy: Rick Casey
Loch Vale has a nice 30-40 minute approach and a variety of moderate climbs. My favorite thing about Loch Vale was the naturally formed ice cave, which sheltered us from the wind.
Climbergirl on Ice!
Photo Courtesy: Rick Casey
We climbed there for about 4 hours. When everybody had a good forearm pump, we called it a day.
Arriving at Loch Vale
Slava and Doug Approaching the Ice Wall (Crystal Meth sector)
Rick just outside the ice cave.
Doug belaying Slava.
Clare and Rick, selfie!
Slava placing an ice screw on a WI3 route.
Here’s Slava higher up (same route as the previous picture).
I started on this WI3 climb. By the time I reached the top, Slava had done two laps on the Crystal Meth WI4 (see picture below), which is just to the right of this route. He’s an excellent ice climber.
Slava enjoying Crystal Meth, WI4.
Rick up high on Crystal Meth, WI4.
Tags: CO, Ice Climbing, Loch Vale, RMNP, Rocky Mountain National Park