Mount Bierstadt

Mt Bierstadt is a popular 14er close to Denver and part of the Mt. Evans wilderness. The standard route is the West Slope route starting at Guanella Pass. The trail has had a lot of work over the years and is much better through the willows and up the slopes than it used to be.

Class: 2.  The West Slope route is considered a class 2 route, meaning portions of this route are considered ‘off trail’. Most of the route is on a well defined trail, however, it is considered class 2 due to rocky areas near the summit. Without a trail, navigate your way through the boulders, staying on or just left of the ridge crest until you are nearly at the summit.

Trailhead/Parking: the road to Guanella Pass is seasonal and is usually open ~Memorial day weekend to Oct/Nov but contact the Forest Service for up to date information. When closed, it adds ~1.5 miles each way to the hike. Also be aware that parking is limited to just designated parking areas only (not along the road). This is now enforced and tickets can be given for parking illegally.