Sawatchs

The Sawatch Range is a high mountain range in central Colorado, part of the Rocky Mountains. It stretches for about 100 miles, running generally north-south. The range is known for its dramatic peaks, many of which exceed 14,000 feet in elevation, making it home to numerous "fourteeners." Mount Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado at 14,440 feet, is located within the Sawatch Range. Other prominent summits include Mount Massive, Mount Harvard, and Mount Yale.

The Sawatch Range is characterized by rugged terrain, alpine lakes, and extensive forests. The headwaters of several major rivers, including the Arkansas River and the Gunnison River, originate in this range. The area is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountaineering, backpacking, and in winter, skiing and snowshoeing. Several wilderness areas protect parts of the range, preserving its natural beauty and ecosystems. The geology of the Sawatch is primarily composed of Precambrian crystalline rocks, with evidence of glacial activity shaping the landscape over millennia. The range's name is derived from the Ute word "Sawatch," meaning "blue earth" or "water earth."