Mount Belford and Mount Oxford
These shy peaks are nestled in the southern Sawatch range. Remote and beautiful, they are simple hikes. Starting at the Missouri Gulch Trailhead, Belford is only 3.5 miles away. Some quick switchbacks, a small clearing and a traverse up the northwest shoulder of the mountain brings you to 14,100 feet. Follow the trail east for a couple hundred yards to the orange summit.
Belford is unique, in so far as what I have done, that it maintains vegetation up to 14,100 feet. Then the rocky summit prevails and the view is commanding. The traverse to Oxford requires nothing more than some in shape legs, and it is a simple 2 miles. Follow the well worn trail south, then southeast to the summit.
Oxford also has a commanding view, with the remainder of the Collegiate Peaks just to the south. The traverse back over to Belford takes a while, but after a day like this, what wouldn't? I will give everyone some words of warning: stay on the south side of the ridge. Do not go over to the north side as it becomes cliffy and the rock is much harder than Class 3. After re-summiting Belford, continue down the trail to your car; what a day!
Along with me on the climb: Guy
Total Round Trip Time: 8 hours