Mount Oxford (Fourteener)

Area Status: Open

Mount Oxford the 27th highest peak in Colorado, at 14,153 feet. It was named in 1931 after the tradition of naming the mountains after prestigious colleges (such as nearby Columbia and Harvard), this mountain in in close proximity to two other Fourteeners, Belford and Missouri. Oxford is usually hiked alongside Belford, which both provide beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.

Mount Oxford is accessed via the Missouri Gulch Trail #1469 which is a 8 mile roundtrip (Oxford only) with 4,600 feet gain; or a 10.8 mile roundtrip (Belford and Oxford)with 5,900 feet gain. From Leadville, travel south on US 24 to Clear Creek Reservoir, then travel west on Chaffee County Road 390. At eight miles, look for the “Missouri Gulch Trailhead” sign on the south side of the road and park here. From the trailhead, follow the Missouri Gulch Trail for two miles. Then follow the trail for Mount Belford to the summit. From the summit of Belford follow the climbers’ trail northeast along the ridge to Mount Oxford. Return along the same route.

The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness was established in 1980 to preserve its quality, character, and integrity. This area is intended to be a place where the imprint of humans is substantially unnoticed; where natural processes are the primary influences, and human activity is limited to primitive recreation and minimum tools. Please follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics to ensure that this and future generations experience this special place in its natural condition.

The U.S. Forest Service has many partners, including Colorado Fourteeners Initiative that help protect and preserve Colorado's 14,000 foot peaks, or "Fourteeners", through active stewardship and public education.

At a Glance

Area Amenities:	Toilets
Permit Info:	Commercial and organized groups must obtain a permit through the Leadville Ranger District in advance of their trip.
Usage:	Medium-Heavy
Busiest Season:	June-September
Restrictions:	Wilderness regulations apply
Closest Towns:	Leadville, CO
Information Center:	Leadville Ranger District

General Information

General Notes:

Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Thunderstorms occur frequently in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind thunderstorms build rapidly, so keep an eye on the weather and get below timberline at the first sign of a thunderstorm. Follow these Lightening Safety Tips.
Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e., severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) do occur, immediately descend to a lower elevation.
At high altitudes, sunlight is much more intense and the air is much drier. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. Always carry a map and compass and know how to use them.

Directions:

From Leadville, travel south on US 24 to Clear Creek Reservoir Rd (Chaffee Co Rd 390). Travel west on County Road 390 for 8 miles to the Missouri Gulch Trailhead on the south side of the road near the ghost town of Vicksburg. Park here and cross a footbridge to the south side of the parking lot.