Hike Mt. Oxford

Elevation: 14,153 feet
Elevation gain: 5,800 feet
Distance: 10 miles round trip
Trailhead: Missouri Gulch Trail

Note: The route to Oxford is not overly difficult, but keep in mind that returning on the same trail presents a definite challenge. You’ll have to climb the steep slope back up to the summit of Mt. Belford, which is much easier going down than coming back up. This might prove to be the longest ten miles you’ll ever hike; but, the views are definitely worth it. Start an hour or two before daylight, and take your time to conserve your energy for the return trip. Keep an eye out for snowfields and electrical storms, and carry more water than you think you’ll need.

To the Trailhead: Take CR 390 (14 miles north of Buena Vista on Hwy 24) to the Missouri Gulch Trailhead. There is a sign for the trailhead about 7 ½ miles down the road. Turn left into the parking area.

Trail Information: See Mt. Belford Trail Information for the first portion of this hike. From the Belford summit, follow the trail southeast. It will turn to the left down the ridge toward the Belford-Oxford saddle. There is a trail to the right that leads to Elkhead Pass before the left turn. Make sure you don’t go this way. The trail you want heads definitively toward the saddle. You’ll cross the saddle (the trail is nicely visible from here) and climb up the ridge. The trail turns to the left near a pile of rocks and continues to the large summit. Gather yourself for the hike back: it’s a lot of work.

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