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Sawtooth Traverse

Mt. Bierstadt · 14,065' · Rank #40

Class 3
10.5
miles RT
3,900
ft gain
Class 3
difficulty
hours

Trail Map

Trail data coming soon

We're working on adding detailed trail maps and elevation profiles for this route.

Route Details

Distance
10.5 miles RT
Elevation Gain
3,900'
Difficulty
Class 3

Trailhead

Name
Guanella Pass
Starting Elevation
11,669'
Coordinates
39.5989°N, 105.7053°W

Parking & Access

Parking
Free Lot 20-50 spots
Fee
Free
If Lot is Full
Overflow parking at nearby pullouts. Shuttle available from Georgetown on summer weekends. No roadside parking - strictly enforced.
Restroom Weak

Free parking at Guanella Pass summit. Free self-issuing wilderness permit required. America the Beautiful pass NOT needed (parking is free). Lot fills early on weekends.

Route Description

One of Colorado's classic alpine ridge traverses. Ascends Bierstadt via west slopes, then traverses the infamous Sawtooth ridge to Mt. Blue Sky - a rugged Class 3 scramble with large gendarmes and exposed ledges. Descends via Scott Gomer Creek drainage. A challenging day requiring substantial scrambling experience. Combines two 14ers in one epic outing.

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Safety Notice: Mountain climbing is inherently dangerous. Always check current conditions, prepare properly, and make your own safety decisions. This site is for informational purposes only.