Missouri Mountain via West Ridge

The Missouri Mountain via West Ridge from Sheep Gulch Trailhead is a hiking trail located in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, USA. The trail leads to the summit of Missouri Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 14,067 feet. The trailhead is located at the Sheep Gulch Trailhead, which is accessible by car.
The trail is approximately 12.1 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 4,350 feet. The trail is considered to be strenuous, with steep sections and rocky terrain, and hikers should be in good physical condition and properly equipped for high-altitude hiking. The trail is a less traveled route compared to Missouri Gulch trail and West Ridge trail, providing a more isolated and wild experience.
Missouri Mountain trail starts in the Sheep Gulch and climbs through the trees, and then opens to the alpine tundra with great views of the surrounding peaks. The Missouri Mountain summit provides panoramic views of the Sawatch Range and the surrounding area, including the nearby 14ers, Mount Belford and Mount Oxford.
It is important to note that the trail is not well-marked in some sections, and hikers should come prepared with a map and compass, and be familiar with navigation techniques. The trail is open from late spring to early fall, and hikers should check weather and trail conditions before setting out, as the trail can be dangerous in adverse weather conditions, especially in thunderstorm season. Additionally, this route is recommended for experienced hikers and climbers, and should not be taken lightly due to the isolation and difficulty of the terrain.
For information on how we grade trails, please click here.
This trail can be completed in approx. 2 days. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.