Over the years, this route has had intermittent access issues. At times, it has been legal. At times, it has been completely illegal.
BETA PHOTO: Bridalveil Falls
Description
This beautiful wall features the best ice climb in Colorado: Bridalveil Falls. First climbed by Jeff Lowe and Mike Weis in 1974 using prototype SNARGS and 70cm piolets. This one took real vision. Located on a North facing wall to the East of town, it's close enough to allow a leisurely cup of coffe before the climb, but far enough that the slackers will drive over to Ouray. There are several climbs on the wall that form up depending on conditions. Ask the locals at the Telluride Mountaineer for fresh beta. DO NOT climb on the falls directly below the Power House. This is private property and you'll get arrested and the whole wall will get shut down by the Sheriff.
Getting There
Colorado Ave (Hwy 145) is the main drag through town. Drive East to the Pandora Mill and park at the gate. Hike up the road until you're at the wall. If avalanches rule that day, keep to the drainage. Takes about an hour for most people. If you ski up, the descent will only take a few minutes. From the top of the falls, either rappel, or if avalanche conditions are moderate, walk around behind the Power House and descend the gully. DO NOT touch the Power House!!
JG & DR climbed Bridalveil on Sunday 3/2/03. Climb is in excellent condition! First pitch is mostly comprised by the exfoliating inverted snow cone. Looked a lot easier than it was. Second pitch is sustained and super fun on excellent ice. The thrid pitch has a full on shower spraying over a fair share of the route, depending on which way the wind is blowing. We found v-threads at the top of the snow cone and again at the first belay, but that was it. We [opted] for the walk off despite the substantial [avalanche] conditions. Since there is a cat track from the mine up past the climb which goes to a point about half way between the base of the climb and the top of the climb, we knew we could at least move quickly through the [avalanche] paths and hopefully be spared.
Any feel for whether or not Idarado's sale of high-zoot home sites will further complicate access to Bridal Veil? Or might it simplify things, now that Idarado will be out of the picture? Just wondering...
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