Gray Copper Falls

This beautiful formation varies significantly year-to-year. Due to high flow, it is not a good early-season bet, though the massive central pillar is known to have formed by mid December. A steep column may appear left of the watercourse as late as April. Probably some years it doesn't touch down at all.

Anchor on the fat bulge at the top and v-thread from there or slog off to the right.

This climb is situated at the bottom of a 1,600-foot avalanche funnel. Approach with extreme caution.

From the south end of Ouray, travel 7.75 miles south on US Hwy 550 to the Ironton Trailhead on the left. This is a popular area for ski touring and gets to be a $#itshow in the winter months.

Hike past the tailings and go left at the fork (signs for Brown Mountain; disregard the misplaced Gray Copper sign here), following the road/skintrack as it crosses Gray Copper creek and climbs briefly. Take the sharp right signed for Gray Copper and follow this 1.5 miles to another crossing of Gray Copper creek. From here, the easiest approach is to travel directly up the creek for 0.3 mile to the falls.

Snowshoes are recommended (even in April).

A 60m rope (2 skinny ropes nice for v-thread), screws, v-thread kit, avalanche gear to comfort