Mount Belford Northwest Ridge

The route begins and ends at the Missouri Gulch trailhead, at 9,650 feet, and reaches the summit of Mount Belford for a round trip of about 8 miles. From the trailhead, follow the Missouri Gulch Trail across a bridge over Clear Creek and into forest. After 0.25 miles, climb a series of steep switchbacks; above them, near 10,400 feet, continue south along Missouri Gulch. At 10,800 feet, turn left and cross the gulch stream on a log bridge, then turn right and hike south through an open area before re-entering trees to pass the remnants of an old shack. Exit the forest near 11,300 feet and continue south in the gulch toward Belford. At 11,600 feet, reach a junction: the Elkhead Pass (Missouri Gulch) Trail continues right, while the Mount Belford Trail turns left. Turn left and head southeast toward Belford's northwest ridge, crossing a small stream near its base. The ridge climbs 2,300 vertical feet on a well-maintained, switchbacked trail. Past an initial rocky section, grind steadily up the switchbacks to about 13,800 feet, where the trail shifts right toward a prominent point, then to a flat spot at 13,900 feet. Turn left and continue east; the terrain eases near 14,100 feet on the approach to the summit block. Return via the same route.