Bierstadt to Blue Sky via the Sawtooth: A Class 3 Redemption
September 14, 2024 - #13/58
This hike has been on my mind since 2015, when I attempted it but had to turn back due to bad weather rolling in. Ever since, I’ve been determined to come back and finish what I started. So, when the forecast looked good, I knew it was time for a redemption hike.
The ascent up Mount Bierstadt was straightforward, just like I remembered. The trail was easy to follow, but as I neared the summit, the wind picked up—sharp and biting, cutting through every layer I had on. By the time I reached the top, I was chilled to the bone, but the view of the Sawtooth Ridge ahead of me reignited that familiar excitement. Even though I’ve done a few Class 3 hikes, the Sawtooth still looked as intimidating as ever.
The Sawtooth: Looks Worse Than It Is
From Bierstadt, the Sawtooth is a jagged, looming ridge that can look pretty intimidating. I remembered how it had looked years ago, but this time, I felt ready. Once I was on the ledges, it wasn’t nearly as bad as it looked. The route is perfect for those getting into Class 3—it gives you technical challenges without overwhelming exposure, and the exposure it does offer feels manageable. The crossing was a lot of fun, and the ledges were stable, giving me confidence the whole way. It was thrilling without being terrifying, just the right amount of adventure.
The Long Push to Blue Sky and a Goat Encounter
Once I cleared the Sawtooth, the trail to Blue Sky stretched out before me. It’s a bit of a slog, but the excitement from the ridge kept me going. About halfway there, I spotted a mountain goat grazing on the rocky slopes! It was my first sighting of the summer, and it felt like a reward in itself. With renewed energy, I pushed to the summit of Blue Sky, soaking in the peaceful, panoramic views from the top.
The Gully: Beautiful but Brutal
The descent down the gully was easily the toughest part of the hike. It was steep, loose, and seemed to go on forever, with every step feeling unstable. But despite the tough terrain, the view overlooking the valley was absolutely stunning. The fall colors were just starting to show, with vibrant yellows and oranges stretching across the landscape. That incredible view made the struggle through the gully a little more bearable, even as my legs started to feel the burn.
The Willows: A Surprisingly Easy Finish
After finally making it out of the gully, I was dreading the willows, which have a reputation for being a muddy mess. But since it hadn’t rained in a couple of weeks, the trail was relatively dry. I made it through the willows without too much trouble, which was a huge relief after such a long day.
Wrapping It Up
Completing the Bierstadt to Blue Sky route via the Sawtooth felt like a redemption for me. Having to turn back in 2015 had always been in the back of my mind, and finishing the hike this time felt like closure. The biting wind, the exhilarating Sawtooth traverse, the mountain goat sighting, and the tough gully descent all made it an unforgettable day in the mountains. After years of waiting, it felt good to finally complete this adventure.
Until the next adventure—happy hiking!
