Shavano was a peak that turned me around several times before I successfully achieved the summit. 2016 was my third attempt and one I hoped would be successful.

We started up the standard route early on a forecasted bluebird day to beat the crowds of people likely trailing us on the same route. On the last push to Shavano I was greeted by a large marmot overlooking from above. A marmot god blessing me with access? Who knows!

The views were wonderful and we celebrated finally being on top. We ate a snack and then packed up to traverse over to Tabeguache ahead of the crowds. Being June remnants of snow remained along the ridge and the slope of Tabeguache as we connected the ridge between the two peaks. On the summit of Tabeguache we met some awesome fellas from the 14ers group, Adam and Nick. They had come up the other side of the mountain, a lesser known route. We spent nearly an hour on the summit enjoying the company, snacks and views before heading back across to Shavano. 

Since this was our third attempt and finally a successful one, we felt no shame in glissading the entire Angel of Shavano as our reward, having hiked the standard route up and down multiple times before. One hundred percent worth it — such an epic glissade! 10/10 would do it again!

A great day that finally rewarded us with a summit win on these peaks!

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Buena Vista is quite possibly my favorite mountain town in the Sawatch range. The people, the culture and the vibe are all excellent. I always make a point to stop in BV, usually Eddyline my favorite brewery in Colorado. Highly recommend stopping or staying in Buena Vista.

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Local spots: Simple Eatery & Spoon It Up, House Rock Kitchen, Eddyline Brewing.