About Rigging for Rescue

Rigging for Rescue offers technical ropework seminars renowned for their focus on applying the critical thinking and systems analysis skills required to competently incorporate ropework and rigging into effective rescue systems. For more information visit www.riggingforrescue.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Early season ice in the San Juan's

The ice climbing conditions in the San Juan's are excellent for this time of the year. We have had colder temps this late autumn and a steady cycle of storms to coat the backcountry in powder.  Recently, Kevin and I sampled the local classic Dexter Falls.  We may have even been the first party on it this season; the ice showed no evidence of previous traffic and was super sticky.

Late last week, Rigging for Rescue conducted a 2-day workshop for the Ouray Ice Park ice farmers.  We focused on work at height risk management considerations, a variety of descent/ascent systems for use with equipment, and a number of companion rescue scenarios for rescuing a fellow worker (or climber) while on rope.  Check out the conditions in the Ouray Ice Park - a very good start to the ice making this year.
Climber pickoff

Practicing personal on-rope systems in the Ouray Ice Park

Swinging leads on Dexter Falls

On lead on Dexter

Sticky ice on the final pitch - Dexter Falls