Mount Bierstadt is a good “beginner” 14er to summit in Colorado. It is relatively close to Denver, the trailhead is located next to the road [paved!], and the mileage + elevation gain is less than other 14ers in the state.
However, it is NOT easy! As people who just finished the Triple Bypass, we were in [cycling] shape and acclimated to the altitude of Colorado, yet it was hard at the top of the mountain. Plus, we were sore for a few days after. Expect this!
Another thing to expect are crowds. Given the reasons mentioned above, this is a very popular trail and the parking does fill up quickly. We arrived at 7am in mid-September and parked along the road with 30-40 vehicles already parked.
Here is a breakdown, mile-by-mile to the top!
- Mile 1: The first mile is a little tease in that it is slightly downhill with a wide, prairie-like path. You’ll cross a small stream, which did back up the hikers a bit.
- Mile 2: Things heat up in mile two! You’ll encounter your first steep grade throughout mile two. Most of this mile was done with the sun behind the mountain.
- Mile 3: The burn is real…and continuous. The landscape is wide-open and the sun is beating down.
- Mile 4: You’re almost there! The top seems so close yet so far away! The wind will pick up and this a good time to add layers for the final push.
- Summit! The summit of Mount Bierstadt is a rocky area with lots of people gathered; taking photos and enjoying their celebratory beverage!
Good to Know
Distance: 8 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 11,360ft to 14,044ft
Terrain: Prairie trail > single-dirt track > rocky
Parking: Available at Bierstadt Trailhead
Facilities: Available at Bierstadt Trailhead
Fun Facts: We made two rockies mistakes; we forgot a homemade sign and forgot a celebratory beer! Don’t make our mistakes!
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