This is a fine and fun route linking two otherwise uneventful 14er's. The two mountains can easily be linked in one day via this fun class 3 ridge. The route begins by climbing the West Slope route to the summit of Bierstadt (see the Mount Bierstadt page for details).

From the summit of Bierstadt, descend north to around 13,100 feet and the beginning of the Sawtooth Ridge.

Route Description

The Sawtooth looks much more difficult than it actually is. Follow the ridge by traversing the east side to a second saddle. At the saddle make your way to the crest of the ridge on over to the west side. When in doubt or the climbing becomes harder than class 3, work more to the west side of the ridge. Most of the route stays to the west and is easy to follow. Although the route is straight forward it does offer some exposure and rock fall potential. I also was nearly run over by a Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep while on the narrow ledges of the west side of the ridge. Not a single mountain goat was seen on Evans which is known for it's goats.

Back to the climb. You finally reach a gully near the end of the ridge. Ascend this gully to easier ground. Know you must hike across open ground for half mile to a point around 14,000 where the Evans West Ridge begins. Make your way east along the ridge while enjoying the scambling and exposure for about a mile to the summit/parking lot of Mount Evans.

I chose to descend the Evans West ridge route, thus making a large circular tour of the area.

Essential Gear

A helmet may be helpful on busy weekends as there is some loose rock on the ridge.

Seasons

This route is only recommended in the late spring or summer as large amounts of snow on the Sawtooth proper would greatly increase the difficulty of the route.

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