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TCS Ice Lead Climbing - CMC Denver - 2026

Climbing Course

Ice Lead Climbing

This class is for experienced ice climbers who are ready to get on the sharp end.

Contacts

Matthew Biscan
Matthew Biscan
Leader

What You'll learn:

  • How to place ice screws
  • Ice leading strategy
  • Options for technical descent (e.g. A-threads)
  • You’ll also receive plenty of mentorship from our Sr. Ice Climbing Instructors.

Prerequisites:

  • Trad Lead Climbing or equivalent
  • Intermediate Ice Climbing or equivalent

Lecture 1:  In Person at CMC Basecamp, Wednesday February 11, 2026, 6:30 - 8:30pm

Lecture 2:  In Person at CMC Basecamp, Tuesday February 17, 2026, 6:30 - 8:30pm

Field Days:  Three days in Lake City, Colorado, February 20 - 22, 2026

Students are responsible for covering their own travel, food and accommodation.  A limited number of shared accommodations, including bathrooms and kitchens, are available at Backcountry Basecamp at a discounted rate of $150 for the entire stay (Thursday night through Sunday morning).  These shared rooms are available on a first come first served basis.  Contact Matt Biscan to reserve your bed! 

NOTE:  You are strongly encouraged to arrive in Lake City on Thursday night February 19.  We will be starting first thing in the morning on Friday February 20.  

Badges you will earn:

Course Requirements
Course Activity Date Availability Leader
Lecture Night 1
Large Classroom / Climbing Wall West
Wed, Feb 11, 2026
Registration closes Feb 10
8 participants
Matthew Biscan
Lecture Night 2
Large Classroom / Climbing Wall West
Tue, Feb 17, 2026
Registration closes Feb 15
7 participants
Matthew Biscan
Field Components
Lake City Ice Park
Fri–Sun, Feb 20–22, 2026
Registration closes Feb 18
7 participants
Matthew Biscan
Roster
Required Equipment
    • Harness
    • 3 Locking Carabiners
    • 2 double runners
    • Belay device
    • Helmet
    • Climbing shoes (Shoes for lecture night) 
    • Eye protection (required)
    • Crampons 
    • Necessary 4 season clothing and gear to negotiate snowy terrain in full winter.
    • Mountaineering boots that will take a hybrid or step-in crampon. We have some strap-on crampons that will fit boots without a toe or heel welt but this is not the optimal configuration.
    • 1 pair of gloves that are thin enough to give you dexterity on the climb yet warm enough to avoid frostbite.
    • 1 pair of warmer gloves to wear when belaying or waiting for a rope.
        Course Materials

        You must register for this course to see course materials.