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Mount Belford (Fourteener)

Rising from the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness at 14,197 feet, Mount Belford is the 19th highest peak in Colorado. Mount Belford is a favorite amongst hikers not only for its beauty, but also for its close proximity to two other Fourteeners, Mount Oxford and Missouri Mountain.

Mount Belford can be accessed by following the Missouri Gulch Trail #1469 for 2.2 miles then then take Mount Belford Trail #1453 for 1.8 miles to the summit. This hike has 4,517 ft in elevation gain.

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.

General Information

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

Commercial and organized groups must obtain a permit through the Leadville Ranger District in advance of their trip.

Wilderness regulations apply.

Getting There

Elevation

14,1987ft

Directions

From Leadville, travel south on US Highway 24 to Chaffee County Road 390 (Clear Creek Road). Travel west past Clear Creek Reservoir for about 8 miles, then look for the “Missouri Gulch Trailhead” sign on the south side of the road and park there.