Approach
This being the easiest route to the summit of Bierstadt is added here as the beginning of the more difficult Sawtooth ridge linking Bierstadt to Mount Evans via a fun ridge.
The route starts at the Guanella Pass Trailhead (11,670) above the town of Georgetown. The parking is very easy to find and plentiful on all but the busiest summer weekends. From the pass descend southeast for about 1 mile to the willow flats below Bierstadt. This leaves you with a gentle 1 mile uphill upon returning to the trailhead. An easier trail has been constructed through the willow thicket towards the north of the willows.
Route Description
Once past the willows you continue along the trail as is switch-backs up the western slope of Bierstadt to the shoulder of the South Summit at 13,780. No route finding is needed on this straight forward and easy trail. This is a great trail for condtioning when coming from sea level to attempt more demanding 14er routes.
From the South Summit follow the ridge as it ascends to the summit proper. Descend the the route to the pass or continue on the Sawtooth Ridge, class 3, to Mount Evans about 1.5 miles to the East.
Essential Gear
No special gear, light hiking boots or strudy tennies
Miscellaneous Info
If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.
Images
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Front Range (CO)
