Name: Top Gun Couloir Approach (aka West Ridge of Evans via Mt. Spaulding)
Rating: 3.5

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Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

CDOT says that the first 10 miles to Summit Lake will be open until the "first significant snowfall" or the first weekend in October, whichever is first. Exactly what constitutes a "significant snowfall" is not defined. The road then typically opens on Memorial Day in May. Though you can always hike up the road in the winter months and check out the conditions!

Description

Situated in the Front Range, you get all the views that famous Mt. Evans offers. To the west, the rolling foothills, stretching north to south as far as the eye can see. Reaching west, the hills diminish, introducing the great plains and the bright lights of the Denver Metro area. To the east, three of Colorado's 14'ers; Bierstadt, Grey's, and Torrey's, dominate the peak-littered skyline.

This link has both a great description of the approach and some great photos to help you get an idea of the terrain.