2011 Ouray Ice Festival

by: Justin Gural

The 16th annual Ouray Ice Festival went down over the weekend, and despite thin ice due to inclement weather this season, the event attracted a rich field of international climbers for the competition and a rowdy crowd in the peanut gallery.

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In the end, Colorado-based Josh Wharton claimed the men's title for the third year in a row, and local Dawn Glanc took the women's title. Thanks to RockAndIce.com for these contest photos, and check out their video of Wharton crushing the field here.

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Of course the Festival isn't all games, there was plenty to keep the masses entertained --including speakers Chad Peele and Canadian legend Barry Blanchard, Conrad Anker's feature film debut on the search for George Mallory's remains on Everest, and of course the Saturday night Zombie party thrown by event sponsors Petzl and Arc'teryx.

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The Ouray Ice Festival is locally owned and operated by Ouray Ice Park, and all proceeds from the event are redirected back into operations and maintenance of the Park. The Park is typically open from mid-December to early-April, and some of the best climbing can be found in March. Although the Park itself doesn't offer guiding services or equipment rental, there are a dozen guides in the area and Ouray Mountain Sports is a preferred spot for renting gear.