Mount Bierstadt - 14er
June 20, 2009

Over the weekend, I climbed one of Colorado's renowned 14er's, Mt. Bierstadt. Having read the description of this ‘beginner’ hike, I thought it’d be a good idea to kick it up a notch by carrying an 8-pound watermelon to the top of the 14,060 ft peak. I’ll tell you I was never more ready to toss that melon down the hill as I ascended step-by-step higher in the snowfield that covered much of our hike.

It was a very foggy day, so we missed out on a spectacular view from the top. The sky was relatively clear by the end of our hike letting us admire our conquest from the parking lot. I’m happy to say that all the patrons of our climbing group made it to the summit (most of whom were able to rejuvenate with watermelon!). The trek down was a blast, as a half-foot layer of soft snow provided the means to frolic, butt-slide, gallop, and traverse down to the dirt trail. Enjoy the pics.

Driving above Georgetown.


The guard of Guanella Pass.


Mt. Bierstadt, 7AM - Covered in Fog.


The climb.


A rare break in the fog.


About 200 ft vertical to the peak.


14,060 feet and plenty of watermelon refreshment.


The descent.


Is this a Patagonia advertisment?!?


The trail.


Jeff and Dan at the trailhead.


Mt. Bierstadt, 1230pm - The peak on the Right.