i spent time with Clint in Ouray and Matt out this way...was in the same boat as you...no experience on the ice and needed a crash course so i could get to climbing...San Juan has great programs in CO...you get your money's worth...i think over three days we spent 20 hours geared up...having it been my first real time out i was wasted by the end of my time with them but came away with more than i bargained for...that and there are so many people climbing you can hook up with anybody for some TR practice after...and Telluride is not to far away...hotels offer deals for ice park members...park is withing walking distance from most place...countless backcountry opportunities within a short drive
i ante'd up the dough and felt it was well worth it...having started late in the game...but that's the price you pay for missing out for all the years prior!!