Rising above the rugged southeastern edge of the Gore Range, Mount Silverthorne—also called Willow Benchmark—offers a genuine alpine expedition for climbers who relish immersive adventure and wild, wide-open spaces. At 13,357 feet, Silverthorne commands the horizon above surrounding valleys and lakes, often letting its lower neighbor, East Thorne, soak up the limelight. Yet, Silverthorne is no afterthought: here, broad ridges, airy traverses, and classic routes await anyone ready for the challenge.

The approaches alone set the stage for an authentic backcountry journey. Whether you strike out from the Gore Creek Trailhead to the west (a healthy 7-mile trek) or start out east from Willowbrook Road (6 miles but no overnight parking), every route into Silverthorne’s domain involves long, muscular miles through conifer forests, rolling meadows, and the distinct hush of high country mornings. Carry a map and choose your trailhead based on time, stamina, and overnight parking needs—be ready to earn your summit.

Silverthorne itself boasts a collection of routes that reward flexible skills and alpine resolve. For those seeking a mellow day, the NE slopes present a steady Class 2 climb—inviting but still demanding a sharp eye for shifting conditions, lingering snow, and variable weather. The NE ridge to Rain, graded at an approachable 5.easy, and the East Ridge to E Thorne (Class 3), both invite you along classic knife-edge ridges with colossal views and the thrill of continuous exposure. You’ll find the South Ridge (Class 3, with Zodiac bypass) and West Ridge (Class 3) offer memorable scrambles, each providing that signature blend of route-finding, easy rock moves, and exhilarating gaps in the skyline. Snow aficionados might discover occasional moderate gullies—options morph throughout the season, so keep a watch on recent weather and snowpack updates.

The real alpine prize here, however, is Silverthorne’s traverses. The Zodiac Traverse—a renowned journey linking Red Peak to Silverthorne (5.5, 6-8 rappels)—is one of Colorado’s crown jewels for moderate alpine adventure. Climbers cross exposed ridgelines, tackle airy rappels, and soak up stunning vistas. Similarly, the Salmon Lake Traverse (East Ridge of East Thorne through Rain, at 5.easy) offers a sprawling, scenic journey across several summits. Both traverses stand tall amongst Colorado’s best moderate length alpine traverses—infusing every move with a sense of scale and accomplishment.

Logistics here matter as much as route selection. At this elevation, weather can shift within hours—prime climbing runs from mid-summer through early fall, when snow recedes but before early storms threaten. Temperatures swing wildly, precipitation is unpredictable, and clouds build fast over ridges and passes. Prepare for sudden wind, fast-moving storms, and the high-alpine intensity that defines these wild peaks.

Mount Silverthorne’s vibe is classic Colorado alpine: grand, raw, and just challenging enough to reward thorough preparation without crossing into technical extremes. Bring your alpine climbing kit—a helmet is a must, and if you’ll be tackling a traverse or suspect snow, a light rope and axe may be warranted. Bypass routes feature some exposure, so keep your party’s experience in mind when deciding on objectives.

If you’re seeking a place where the approach is part of the adventure, where classic traverses thread airy lines across the skyline, and where solitude meets striking scenery, Mount Silverthorne demands a spot on your climbing agenda. Approach, ascend, and traverse your way through this dynamic summit—in the Gore’s quieter corner, you’ll find both wildness and reward in equal measure.