Mount Oklahoma surprised me with the final push and some difficult route finding. Perhaps I underestimated this one and anticipated a walk in the park, so to speak, but that was not the case.

The initial cutoff from the Mount Massive south west slopes trail is straightforward. The creek crossing and exit from the trail is easy to miss, or was that day at least. I crossed in the wrong spot and had to backtrack to find an easier section. There are some gnarly sections of that creek.

‍ After crossing the creek in the incorrect location I had to bushwack some to find a general path through the forest to the basin. Once in the basin above the treeline the remaining route is fairly clear. The ascent up the shoulder, though, was much steeper and looser than expected. I may have been off route and need to return to verify.

The last push to the false summit was a bit soul-sucking with a steep relentless slope. The summit views were entirely worth it though and the summit register was hilarious! Saw a few familiar names.

The bushwack out wasn’t as bad and I think I made a better path out to find the connecting massive trail.

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Leadville is one of my most favorite mountain towns. A little gem with plenty of local options. Definitely spend some time here as you're passing through or even stay overnight to get better acclimated for your hike if you're coming from sea level.

Local jams: Tennessee Pass Cafe, City on a Hill Coffee, Casa Sanchez, Buchi Cafe Cubano.