Bierstadt

[LTbear]

Anyone know what the conditions have been and/ or up for a climb? Climbing partner had to bail at the last second.

[tomsox]

I'm not sure, but would def consider a hike - ive never climbed in the winter, what gear is needed?

[JeffR]

Some info here:

http://www.14ers.com/php14ers/tripreport.php?trip=7468&cpgm=tripmain&ski=Include

[LTbear]

I'm not sure, but would def consider a hike - ive never climbed in the winter, what gear is needed?

Hey Tomsox. Sorry, but I had been in bed a long time by the time you posted.

Turns out almost no gear was needed. Weather was great and there was very little snow - I didn't even have to use my yaktraks!

Great day. Oh, and both my schools (Baylor and Colorado) won their football games today. I do believe I need a beer.

[atalarico]

Hey fellow DU'er. What is the road like getting up to Bierstadt this time of year? My brother's coming in from Seattle and I want to take him up an easier 14'er, and I think Bierstadt would be perfect. I'm also limited where I can drive, as I have a rather low clearance VW golf.

Edited to add: Would Sawtooth to Evans be feasible, or is it snow covered?

Cheers!

[Crestoner]

I was up there Sunday. The south approach to Guanella Pass was nearly dry...a few minor icy patches up high, on dirt road. I spoke with three other groups on the peak, and all had driven up the southern approach from Grant. No snowshoes needed, but was glad to have my gaiters.

Attached is a photo of the Sawtooth. The route includes that "inverted T" of snow in the upper center of the photo.

[atalarico]

Sweet! Thanks for the info. If it stays that way until turkey day, that's where we'll be headed! Cheers!