Box Canyon ice climbing, Ouray, Colorado

Ouray, Colorado's famed Ice Park is situated just on the south end of downtown, conveniently within walking distance of several hotels, at the north end of the Uncompahgre River Gorge. In this 150-foot-deep canyon, ice-climbing enthusiasts can test their skills against a sheer ice wall (water is run down the sides of the canyon during the winter to create the thick layers of ice). Pictured here is a climber working from near the base of the canyon. If you're interested in trying ice-climbing yourself, consider booking a lesson with San Juan Mountain Guides