Mount Bierstadt
14,066 feet
A Front Range favorite with a paved road to the trailhead and incredible views
Why Mount Bierstadt?
Mount Bierstadt is one of the closest 14ers to Denver and one of the most popular first summits in Colorado. At 14,066 feet, this Class 2 route features paved road access and a clear trail, with a boulder field near the summit that earns the Class 2 rating. The trail passes through willow marshes before climbing the west slopes to spectacular views of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and the Sawtooth Ridge. With its proximity to the Front Range and straightforward route, Bierstadt is an excellent introduction to Class 2 terrain and high-altitude hiking. The combination of accessibility and incredible summit views makes this peak a Colorado classic.
Getting to the Trailhead
Guanella Pass Trailhead
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 11,669 feet
- From Denver:
- About 56 miles (1.5 hours, plus extra time on summer weekends)
Directions
From Denver, take I-70 West to exit 228 for Georgetown. Drive through Georgetown and follow the signs for the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Drive 12 miles to the top of Guanella Pass. There are two large paved lots, one on each side of the road, and the Bierstadt trail starts near the lot on the east side.
Road Access
The Guanella Pass Scenic Byway is paved all the way to the trailhead, so clearance is not an issue in summer. In winter, the road from Georgetown is usually plowed only to the campground about 1.5 miles below the pass.
Parking Information
- Two large paved lots sit on either side of the road at the top of the pass, and the upper lot on the west side has restrooms. Do not park on the paved road itself, because vehicles parked on the road have been ticketed.
- Capacity: Two large lots that fill by 6:00 a.m. or earlier on weekends
- There is no parking fee. The Forest Service requires a free, self-issued Mount Evans Wilderness permit, which you fill out at the trailhead.
Pro Tip: Arrive before 5:30 a.m. on summer weekends. This is one of the most popular 14ers near Denver, and the lots fill early.
The Route
Mount Bierstadt via West Slopes
Class 2
This is an out-and-back route that begins with a gentle descent through willow marshes, then climbs the west slopes through increasingly rocky terrain. The final section crosses large boulders, which is the reason for the Class 2 rating. You will gain 2,850 feet over approximately 3.6 miles to the summit.
The trail starts with a gentle descent through willow marshes. Boardwalks protect the wetlands, and the ground is often muddy early in the season. You will cross streams on logs. Beautiful wildflowers bloom here in July. This unique start means you actually lose elevation before gaining it back.
The trail climbs steeply out of the willows onto the west slopes. It becomes rockier, with loose scree sections, as it switchbacks up toward the ridge. Great views of Mount Blue Sky begin here. This is where you make up the elevation you lost and then some.
The final 250 feet cross a field of large boulders, and this section is the reason the route earns its Class 2 rating. You may need your hands for balance in a few spots. Cairns mark the way. The Sawtooth Ridge views are stunning. This is your introduction to Class 2 terrain.
The summit of Mount Bierstadt offers spectacular views of Mount Blue Sky to the northeast and the dramatic Sawtooth Ridge connecting the two peaks. To the east, you will see Denver and the plains stretching to the horizon. The summit is exposed and often very windy. Sign the register and celebrate reaching your first Class 2 summit.
Descent
Retrace your route. Be careful on the boulder field descent, where trekking poles are essential. The final section through the willows can be boggy and ends with a gentle climb back to the parking area. Descending takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
What's Special About Mount Bierstadt?
Close to Denver
The trailhead is about 56 miles from downtown Denver on paved roads. If you leave Denver at 4:00 a.m., you can be on the trail by about 5:30 a.m.
Introduction to Class 2
The Class 2 boulder field is well-cairned and provides excellent practice for hand use and route finding without serious exposure.
Clear Route
The trail is heavily trafficked and easy to follow. Cairns mark the boulder field clearly. It is very difficult to get lost.
Moderate Elevation Gain
At 2,850 feet of gain, this is less than many other 14ers. The trailhead sits high on Guanella Pass, which keeps the total climb modest.
Incredible Views
The summit offers some of the best views of any Front Range 14er. Mount Blue Sky, the Sawtooth Ridge, and the distant Denver skyline are spectacular.
When to Go
Best Time of Year
July through early September
These months offer the safest conditions for beginners with minimal snow coverage and the most predictable weather patterns. Mid-July to mid-August is peak season with the best trail conditions.
Caution: Attempting this peak in June or late September significantly increases difficulty due to snow conditions. Winter attempts require mountaineering skills.
Time of Day
An early start helps you find parking and get off the summit before the noon thunderstorm window. On summer weekends, the lots fill by 6:00 a.m.
Sunrise Bonus: Starting at first light gives you beautiful alpenglow on Mount Blue Sky and Bierstadt as you hike through the willows.
Weather Considerations
Colorado mountain weather is unpredictable. The boulder field and summit are extremely exposed with zero shelter. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning are the biggest danger. Be off the summit by noon, and take this seriously. If storms threaten, turn around immediately.
Pro Tips
Trekking Poles Essential
Trekking poles are highly recommended for the descent through the boulder field and for stream crossings in the willows. Your knees will thank you.
Watch the Willows
The willow section can be very muddy and boggy, especially early in the season. Waterproof boots help. Stay on the boardwalks where provided to protect the fragile wetland ecosystem.
Sawtooth Ridge Connection
Advanced hikers can continue from Bierstadt to Mount Blue Sky via the Sawtooth, but this is a serious Class 3 scramble with significant exposure. It is only for experienced climbers.
Related Peaks
Grays Peak
Another beginner-friendly peak near Denver
Grays Peak at 14,275 feet is a Class 1 trail roughly 9 miles west-northwest of Bierstadt. It has slightly more elevation gain but no boulder field.
Learn MoreQuandary Peak
A Class 1 alternative
Quandary Peak at 14,272 feet near Breckenridge is a Class 1 trail that pairs well with Bierstadt for beginner training.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails: Mount Bierstadt Trail
See the trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers.
14ers.com: Mount Bierstadt
Read the detailed route description and trip reports.
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Check winter conditions and avalanche forecasts if you plan an off-season attempt.
Mountain Weather Forecast
Check the hour-by-hour summit forecast.
Ready to Summit Mount Bierstadt?
Prepare for your summit with our 13-week training program.