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I arrived at the Mt. Belford trailhead parking lot at 6:18 am and was car #22 in a lot that holds maybe 25. The weather was looking fantastic for maybe my most challenging 14er so far. It was a very long day; much longer than I expected.
ROUTE: Northwest Ridge, 8.0 miles round trip. 4,500' elevation gain.
BEGIN HIKE: 6:48 am
SUMMIT TIME: 2:00 pm
RETURN TO CAR: 6:20 pm
Crossing the first bridge at the beginning of the hikeAvalanche debris and maybe thousands of columbines in this fun stretchThere were columbines all over the valley floorThe second bridge. I was more graceful coming back than going over the first time.The old cabin ruinsNot even close yet.A big marmot watched us pass byWhy we do what we doMy dog Tippi's first 14er, notice she claims this one!The summit marker and my beloved polesLooking down on the trail from Belford's summitLooking at Mt. Oxford, where many stronger hikers continue for another summit.
This was my 12th 14er. I have contemplated whether to continue this or find another hobby. I am going on 64 years old. I know I am not the oldest by far, but this was an incredible challenge. I am proud I kept going. I commend the Gardener! What gorgeous wildflowers!
Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
Thank you, Shelly! I still have my eyes on a few more.
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