Mt. Bierstadt - West Slopes & Northwest Gulley - (14,060')

Mt. Bierstadt - West Slopes & Northwest Gulley - (14,060')

Distance: ~10 miles

It's been a little while, so let's start 2020 by hiking Mt Bierstadt!
We'll meet at the Wooly Mammoth lot sect BB (I-70 & Morrison Exit) at 5:20am on Saturday, January 4th and leave no later than 5:30am. We'll carpool to the winter parking lot on Guanella Pass. We should arrive about 6:45am and will start hiking at 7:00am. Hikers can decide that day if they want to take the standard route or the northwest gulley. The routes are very close and everyone can meet on the summit. We may stop for food after the hike.

Difficulty:
Class 2 - Snowshoes and microspikes will be needed. Goggles and facemask recommended.

Route Info:
Some information on hiking along these routes can be found at the sites below. Please review the route before the trip. https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=bier1&peak=Mt.+Bierstadt

• https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=bier2&peak=Mt.+Bierstadt

Directions to Trailhead from 14ers.com:
Take the Georgetown exit off of Interstate 70. Drive through Georgetown and follow the signs for the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Drive 12 miles to the top of Guanella Pass (11,700')

Winter Equipment:
Wintertime at high elevations can be very unforgiving and it is important to be able to cover all exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Bring a waterproof jacket, goggles, face mask or balaclava, gators or some way to keep snow out of your boots, enough layers to keep warm, sunscreen, enough food, and plenty of water. Camel back hoses have a tendancy to freeze in the winter so consider bringing a backup. It is also highly recommended that you bring the ten essentials. The complete list can be found at http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html

Disclaimer:
By attending this hike you assume all responsibility for your own safety and agree that the event host, organizer, the 14er Fan Club, and Meetup are in no way liable in the event of your injury or death. Mountaineering in Colorado can be very dangerous and many people have died on the 14ers. Weather, terrain and other people can put you in a situation where your knowledge and experience will be vital. If you are new to these peaks, I urge you to pick up a book on mountaineering safety and make sure your basic navigation skills (map+compass, not only GPS) are up-to-par and you can rely on them in a tough situation. Altitude sickness, dehydration, and fast-building storms are the most common problems. Please be in shape and self-sufficient. Although this is a group activity you are responsible for yourself.