After warmer and wet weather during early December, the opening day for Ouray Ice Park is being delayed.

Initially, Ouray Ice Park had hoped to open this weekend, but recent warm temperatures and rain have delayed progress for ice farmers. Using more than 250 sprinklers, the Uncompahgre Gorge will beautifully transform into an ice climbing mecca. While Mother Nature ultimately holds the key to opening the gates to this winter playground, the icy and narrow slot canyon is expected to feature more than 100 named ice climbs and mixed routes, 11 distinct climbing areas, and three miles of vertical terrain.

Ouray, known as “Switzerland in America,” is one of the most incredible destinations in the state. The small mountain town offers more than just a beautiful landscape from the surrounding San Juan Mountains, it is also dubbed as the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado.

With the new target opening date of Saturday, December 21 right around the corner, now’s the time to start doing your snow dances. A strong blast of wintry weather bringing widespread snow and cool temperatures to parts of the state from Thursday through Sunday will likely create ideal ice-making conditions for the park to open as scheduled. For more details, click here.