{"id":2489,"date":"2014-08-20T10:25:12","date_gmt":"2014-08-20T16:25:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/?p=2489"},"modified":"2025-04-30T15:26:37","modified_gmt":"2025-04-30T21:26:37","slug":"sawtooth-ridge-traverse-colorado","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/sawtooth-ridge-traverse-colorado\/","title":{"rendered":"Sawtooth Traverse &#8211; Colorado&#8217;s Classic Scramble"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/sawtooth.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/sawtooth-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2512 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/sawtooth-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/sawtooth-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/sawtooth.jpg 1442w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 300px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 300\/225;\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Click for full-sized map.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s surprising that in all my years in Colorado, I hadn&#8217;t gotten around to doing the Sawtooth Traverse. This classic route is a class 3 scramble between the 14,060 ft. summit of Mount Bierstadt and the northeast shoulder of 14,264 ft. Mount Evans. The Sawtooth is usually climbed south to north, starting at Mount Bierstadt. The exit from the Sawtooth offers several options: traverse 1.2 miles over Mount Evans (and its sub-peak, 14,256 ft. West Evans), hike 0.7 miles to the 13,842 ft. top of Mount Spalding or simply descend via an accommodating gully trail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since this is a beautiful and easy-to-access area, you can\u2019t go wrong!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mount Bierstadt &#8211; The Start of the Adventure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We started from Guanella Pass at 3:45 am and the first order of business was to follow the well-established standard route up the broad slopes of Mount Bierstadt. We hoped to capture the first rays of sun from the summit, which we did around 5:30. When we first crested the top and gazed upon the Sawtooth, it certainly has an intimidating presence. The mantra for the day was \u201cget closer and the path will reveal itself\u201d\u2014and this proved to be true. Still, looking at the sheer, seemingly vertical exit in the distance, there was good reason to be apprehensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2491\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3301.jpg\" alt=\"Sunrise on the summit of Mount Bierstadt.  Photo byy James Dziezynski\" class=\"wp-image-2491 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3301.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3301-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Sunrise on the summit of Mount Bierstadt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2492\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3305.jpg\" alt=\"Sunrise Bierstadt\" class=\"wp-image-2492 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3305.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3305-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Our sunrise summit shot!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The descent from Bierstadt is a tedious affair. The path stays right (east) of the ridge proper, then dissolves into a series of big, occasionally loose boulders. There are nice views of Abyss Lake along the way. It\u2019s worth noting that this section could be trouble with snow in the spring: punching through seems inevitable. We climbed in early August and had no problems and the route was mostly snow-free. Don\u2019t be afraid to dip a little lower &#8212; the rocks are more stable in the lower sections. Your initial goal is to line up with the low saddle at 13,250 ft. on the Sawtooth and go there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2509\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/route-overview.jpg\" alt=\"sawtooth traverse colorado\" class=\"wp-image-2509 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/route-overview.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/route-overview-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>An overview of the traverse from mid-way down the descent from Mount Bierstadt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2493\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3311.jpg\" alt=\"Sawtooth ridge boulder field\" class=\"wp-image-2493 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3311.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3311-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>The boulder field can be tedious but take your time&#8230; the fun is yet to come.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Entering Class 3 Territory on Sawtooth Ridge<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Up until now, it\u2019s been all class 2 scrambling. At the saddle, you\u2019ll be confronted with what ultimately will be the toughest part of the traverse\u2014the first tower (though it\u2019s hard to believe it at the time because the rest of the traverse looks so gnarly). There are a few ways up this tower. The slightly easier lines are to the right side (near the grassy gully) and the more direct lines to the left. We stayed left, where the climbing was either class 3+ or maybe easy class 4. There were always bomber handholds (watch out for loose boulders and check your holds). Whatever way you go you\u2019ll eventually pass a notch and reach a second, less burly tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2511\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/tower-routes.jpg\" alt=\"sawtooth ridge tower\" class=\"wp-image-2511 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/tower-routes.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/tower-routes-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>The first tower. We went up the green line. The yellow lines are optional routes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2494\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"394\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3314.jpg\" alt=\"sawtooth ridge colorado tower\" class=\"wp-image-2494 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3314.jpg 394w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3314-225x300.jpg 225w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 394px) 100vw, 394px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 394px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 394\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Sheila climbs up the first tower!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, the option here is to either go directly up a welcome notch (class 3) or scramble around to the right and traverse some grassy ledges. We preferred the solid rock in the notch and the climbing was easy, so I\u2019d suggest this option as opposed to the cambered, grassy slopes to the right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2496\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"394\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3319.jpg\" alt=\"Scaling the second tower notch. \" class=\"wp-image-2496 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3319.jpg 394w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3319-225x300.jpg 225w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 394px) 100vw, 394px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 394px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 394\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Scaling the second tower notch.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finishing Line on the Sawtooth Traverse<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After a brief section of boulder hopping, you will reach a very small saddle with the finish before you. Here you have the choice to make your life easy or difficult, depending on your choice of routes. I believe that several online route descriptions make a major blunder here: they suggest going left around the tower to reach the final ledge section of the traverse. I find this to be a terrible choice (I scouted this route). Going left puts you on an exposed series of dicey ledges with some serious fall potential, then leads you to the base of a broken, loose gully, where you\u2019ll have to power-scramble on all fours to reach the solid part of the ledge traverse\u2014no fun and dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2510\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/saddle-route.jpg\" alt=\"An important look at the best line to the finish from the last saddle. Ignore skirting left around this final section. \" class=\"wp-image-2510 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/saddle-route.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/saddle-route-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>An important look at the best line to the finish from the last saddle. Ignore skirting left around this final section.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2506\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/exit-route.jpg\" alt=\"sawtooth ridge traverse finish\" class=\"wp-image-2506 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/exit-route.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/exit-route-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Staying high lets you line up the finish with ease and avoids nasty scree scrambling.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2497\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"394\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3326.jpg\" alt=\"When you finally get there, you'll see the ledge is wider than it looked from afar. \" class=\"wp-image-2497 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3326.jpg 394w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3326-225x300.jpg 225w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 394px) 100vw, 394px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 394px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 394\/525;\" \/><figcaption>When you finally get there, you&#8217;ll see the ledge is wider than it looked from afar.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2498\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3327.jpg\" alt=\"See? Not so bad!\" class=\"wp-image-2498 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3327.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3327-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>See? Not so bad!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The infinitely better option is to scramble up a fun, protected notch that goes above the sketchy stuff and has a nicely cairned trail that lines up perfectly with the finish ledges. Visually, the final major obstacle presents itself as a steep, gray wall of rock. Once again, some online descriptions offer a lower scramble route around this gray wall &#8212; which is an awful idea. This deposits you in the thick of loose scree and requires a very loose, ugly scramble up to more solid ground. The upper route (marked by cairns) is again infinitely better! It won\u2019t reveal itself until you are right on top of it, but it follows a solid line of rock that is wide enough to feel safe. There are plenty of good handholds on the right that will serve as a railing. The first few steps are narrow but the path widens, thankfully (for those who have climbed Longs Peak, this section is very similar to the Narrows ledges).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2507\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/finish.jpg\" alt=\"sawtooth ridge\" class=\"wp-image-2507 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/finish.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/finish-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Looking back on the scramble to the finish.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2499\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3331.jpg\" alt=\"Sawtooth traverse finish\" class=\"wp-image-2499 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3331.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3331-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Sheila is all smiles at the exit of the Sawtooth Traverse!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Voila! And Now, the Famous Swamp Exit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you pop out above the ledges, there\u2019s a brief \u201cfalse finish\u201d around the corner, followed by one more corner that leads to the true exit. And just like that\u2026 you\u2019re in a broad, open alpine field decorated with boulders, wildflowers, and if you\u2019re lucky, a family of mountain goats. The walk over to Evans or Spalding will be a cinch (easy class 2) or you can just descend. We opted to hit up Spalding, since we have already been up Evans a few times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2500\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3336.jpg\" alt=\"The broad open tundra. Can you see the goats?\" class=\"wp-image-2500 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3336.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3336-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>The broad open tundra. Can you see the goats?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2501\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3340.jpg\" alt=\"En route to Spaudling. \" class=\"wp-image-2501 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3340.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3340-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>En route to Spaudling.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2502\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3345.jpg\" alt=\"Mount Spaulding Colorado summit\" class=\"wp-image-2502 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3345.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3345-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Summit of Mount Spalding!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The descent gully is the obvious bowl that dips to the west between the Sawtooth and Mount Spalding. When you reach the precipice of this gully, a very well-marked trail magically appears (it mostly follows right of the creek). Surprisingly, this trail is in pretty good shape. It will lead you down to the willowy, swampy flats where a secret waterfall and an ocean of wildflowers await.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2503\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3347.jpg\" alt=\"Approaching the exit gully. \" class=\"wp-image-2503 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3347.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3347-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>Approaching the exit gully.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2504\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3348.jpg\" alt=\"In the thick of the descent gully. \" class=\"wp-image-2504 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3348.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3348-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>In the thick of the descent gully.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2505\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3356.jpg\" alt=\"A look back up the gully before hitting up the swamps. \" class=\"wp-image-2505 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3356.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/DSCN3356-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>A look back up the gully before hitting up the swamps.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, there\u2019s the matter of the last mile of this trail. Eventually, it will connect with the main Mount Bierstadt trail but in order to do so, it passes through the mushy, murky willow festooned swamp. It\u2019s very easy to lose the trail in the 7 ft. tall willows and there will be plenty of muddy swaths along the way &#8212; do your best to stay on target and if you lose it, trend west towards the shoulder of Bierstadt. We were able to stay on the trail without too much trouble though it took a little more time than we anticipated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eventually, you will reconnect with the main trail where the caravan of day hikers will likely look at your muck-covered shoes and wonder where you are coming from. A little farther and you will be back to the Guanella Pass parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-2508\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/muddy1.jpg\" alt=\"The finish is... messy!\" class=\"wp-image-2508 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/muddy1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.mountainouswords.com\/mountain-air\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/08\/muddy1-300x225.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/525;\" \/><figcaption>The finish is&#8230; messy!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sawtooth Traverse Tips and Hints<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To enjoy the Sawtooth, I would highly encourage following the route described here. Sometimes an alternate route offers a better challenge or more thrilling exposure but in this case, the alternate routes are simply rotten, ugly, and sketchy. Bring a helmet and be sure to check conditions before you go (there have been fatal falls off the Sawtooth in snowy and icy conditions). If you stay on target, this is a fun scramble with an unexpectedly fun finish. Tacking on Evans, Spalding, or even the farther out peaks such as Gray Wolf Mountain can add to the adventure. A point-to-point to Summit Lake off the Mount Evans paved road could be fun too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One final note<\/strong>: reversing the Sawtooth is a more difficult traverse, as you\u2019ll have to downclimb the towers or else retreat down one of the eastern gullies towards Abyss Lake and boulder hop back up to Bierstadt. It may be fun but we were happy with the traditional route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Directions<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><b> <\/b>From the town of Georgetown off I-70, follow the paved road to the summit of Guanella Pass. There is ample parking here in two lots plus street parking. Since you need an early start to safely do the Sawtooth, parking shouldn\u2019t be an issue (we car camped in one of the upper lots). The Mount Bierstadt Trail starts at 11,660 ft. on the east side of the lots and is very well defined, complete with bridges through the swamps. It is 3.5 miles to the summit &#8212; a relatively easy trail. Be careful not to go too fast on the way up Bierstadt &#8212; remember, it\u2019s only the warm-up. From there, descend north off Bierstadt and traverse the Sawtooth &#8211; 0.6 miles total. If you immediately descend after the traverse, it\u2019s about 6.5 miles (though given the terrain, this will likely take 5 &#8211; 6 hours). We went over to Spalding and back, making our day 8.5 miles total. Traversing to Evans and back makes for a 10.5-mile day.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Sawtooth Traverse is a Colorado classic! This Class 3 adventure connects Mount Bierstadt and the shoulder of Mount Spalding. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2495,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[70,7,79],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-2489","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-colorado-adventures","8":"category-travel-and-adventure","9":"category-trip-reports"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Sawtooth Traverse - Mt. Bierstadt &gt; Mt. Spalding &gt;Mt. 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