Telluride isn’t just beautiful — it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s rugged landscape, with its steep cliffs, icy parks, and sprawling canyons, makes it an ideal spot for full-day tours that challenge your skills and satisfy your sense of adventure. Of the options listed here, the Full-Day Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park stands out for its unique appeal, especially for those wanting to conquer frozen waterfalls with expert guidance. That said, if rock climbing is more your style, the tours in Ouray and Telluride itself offer a variety of routes and challenging climbs to keep you busy all day.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned climber, these trips promise a full day of breathtaking scenery and technical challenge. The beauty of these tours is their focus on personalized experiences – guides tailor each day to your skill level, so you’re never overwhelmed or under-stimulated. Ready to get your adrenaline pumping? Keep reading to find out which of these full-day adventures is perfect for you.
1. Full-Day Ice Climbing – Ouray Ice Park
At number 1 on our list, the Full-Day Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park offers the chance to ascend frozen waterfalls with trusted guides since 1973. This tour is perfect whether you’re new to ice climbing or have some experience. Guides are AMGA certified or trained, ensuring safety and expert instruction. They provide all technical gear, so you won’t need to worry about packing your own equipment — just bring your sense of adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on inspiring climbers of all levels. You’ll learn essential skills like tackling steep ice, finding rests, and mixing techniques for different ice conditions. The Ouray Ice Park itself is renowned globally, with a variety of routes that cater to beginners and advanced climbers alike. The scenery is breathtaking, with towering blue ice formations set against the rugged mountains. The approximate 8-hour day gives plenty of time to climb multiple pitches and build confidence.
Guests consistently praise the guides for their patience and clear teaching. One review mentions, “I never thought I’d be able to climb ice, but the guides made it approachable.” This trip offers excellent value at $389 per person, especially considering all gear is included and the personalized instruction.
Bottom Line: If you want a safe, guided introduction to ice climbing amid stunning scenery, this tour is a top choice. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers eager to try something truly different.
2. Full Day Rock Climbing in Ouray
For those who prefer rock over ice, the Full Day Rock Climbing in Ouray offers an exhilarating variety of routes, from volcanic walls to waterfalls. Priced at $285 per person, this tour is a full eight hours of climbing adventure led by AMGA certified or trained guides who have been leading climbers since 1973. While this tour doesn’t have reviews listed, the reputation of Mountain Trip’s guides ensures a high-quality experience.
What sets this trip apart is its diversity. You might start on steep sport routes, then abseil into a canyon to climb above a roaring waterfall. It’s a chance to challenge yourself with traditional (trad) lines or enjoy the more straightforward sport routes. Guides customize the day based on your skill level and goals, whether you’re looking for a technical challenge or a scenic ascent.
Participants can expect a mix of challenging climbs, beautiful scenery, and educational moments about climbing techniques. This tour is ideal for climbers who want a full day of variety — from vertical walls to canyon adventures. The value is high, especially considering the length and customization of the experience. Keep in mind that since there are no reviews listed, it’s best suited for climbers with some experience or those willing to learn on the fly.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for climbers wanting a full day packed with diverse routes and scenery, guided by experienced professionals familiar with the San Juan mountains.
$285.00 per person
3. Full-Day Rock Climbing – Telluride
The Full-Day Rock Climbing in Telluride offers a scenic and challenging day high above the town, with routes ranging from single-pitch climbs to multi-pitch adventures. This tour, priced at $285, is led by Mountain Trip’s AMGA certified or trained guides who have been guiding in the area since 1973. It’s tailored to your goals, whether that’s honing your skills or ticking off a long-standing climbing wish.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of dramatic walls and colorful rock. It provides options suitable for different skill levels, with guides adjusting the difficulty and pacing accordingly. During the day, climbers can enjoy the majestic views of the San Juan Mountains, with routes that challenge technical skills or offer a more relaxed pace for beginners.
While it does not have reviews listed, the decades of guiding experience suggest a dependable, well-organized experience. This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to spend a full day in a scenic setting, improving their climbing ability, and experiencing the grandeur of Telluride’s landscapes. It’s an excellent value considering the range of routes and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a tailored, scenic climbing adventure with skilled guides, this tour is a reliable choice that combines outdoor challenge with breathtaking views.
$285.00 per person
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which full-day tour in Telluride fits your adventure style, consider your budget, skill level, and interests. If frozen waterfalls excite you, the ice climbing Full-Day Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park is hard to beat for its unique scenery and beginner-friendly approach. For those wanting diverse rock routes, the Full Day Rock Climbing in Ouray offers a variety of challenges, perfect for climbers with some experience. And if spectacular views and versatile routes are your priority, the Full-Day Rock Climbing in Telluride provides a scenic backdrop with options for all levels.
Think about your fitness level and what kind of scenery or challenge motivates you most. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and guide. Remember, all tours include expert guides and gear (except personal items), making each experience safe and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Telluride offers an impressive range of full-day outdoor adventures that cater to different interests and skill levels. For a truly unique experience, the ice climbing trip at Ouray’s world-famous ice park is unforgettable. If you prefer to stick to rock, the variety and scenic beauty of the climbs in Ouray and Telluride itself ensure a memorable day of challenge and fun.
Whether you’re seeking a beginner-friendly introduction or an advanced technical challenge, these tours provide great options. Just remember to book early, prepare properly, and be ready for an adventure that will leave you with stories to tell long after you leave the mountains.