Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak.

“Climb mountains, not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world” ~ David McCullough Jr.

For more than two decades, Ouray, Colorado, has been a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. More specifically, for frozen waterfall climbers. At the end of every January, Ouray Ice Park is host to an ice festival. Ice climbers, both novice and pro, from around the globe, travel to Ouray to be part of the event. Last weekend, January 23-26, 2020, they celebrated their 25th anniversary.

One can find vendors demonstrating everything from the latest must-have ice tools to apparel and climbing gear. Climbing competitions take place on Saturday and Sunday during the four-day extravaganza. But the fun doesn’t stop there. After dark, you can enjoy music, food, dance parties, a live and silent auction, and presentations by leading climbers.

In case you weren’t aware, Jeff Lowe was one of the founders of the Ouray Ice Festival. He was considered to be one of the most influential alpinists of his generation. From what I hear, he attained climbs that others wouldn’t even dare to think about. From the Rockies to the Swiss Alps, he had more than 1,000 ascents on rock, ice and snow. He founded the companies Latok Mountain Gear and Cloudwalker. And had a gear shop in Nederland in the very spot that Backcountry Pizza now calls home. 

Rob Savoye, a long-time climbing buddy of Jeff’s and a Nederland local, has been involved with the Ouray Ice Park and festival since the very beginning. His commitment to the festival is what led the volunteer award to be named after him. Rob explains that the strong ties between Ouray and Nederland still exist due to the high population of Ned ice climbers and alpinists, like Jeff.

Jeff passed away at the age of 67 from an unknown neurodegenerative disease. From what I can tell, his memory lives on. His passion for climbing continues to inspire those with identical dreams. I’m a sucker for inspiration and it doesn’t matter what form it comes in: a story, a quote, an experience, a photograph, a painting, a song or time spent in nature. Inspiration is contagious and when we have the courage to share our passion with people, it can be the trickle effect that leads to greatness. 

For more information on the Ouray Ice Park go to http://ourayicepark.com/.

(Originally published in the February 6, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)