Log In 
Peak(s):  Mt. Oklahoma  -  13,843 feet
Date Posted:  10/08/2012
Date Climbed:   10/07/2012
Author:  talusman
 Oklahoma in the Fall   

This has been a rough summer for me. In June, the Waldo Canyon fire had us evacuated from our house for nearly a week. Our house was fine, but mentally, that was a difficult experience.

Image
Waldo Canyon Fire from My House


And then in early August we got news that our doberman, Annabelle (aka best dog in the world), had a very aggressive (and somewhat rare) form of cancer, malignant histiocytocis. We started a trial study of a new drug that puts us at CSU, Ft Collins one day every 3 weeks. We're still early in the treatment and it's not clear how well it's working.

My accomplishments for the year include: 7 14ers w/repeats , 3 13ers, 4 backpacking trips including Four Pass Loop, and multiple rock climbing outings.

I did not realize I had a 3-day weekend until the last minute. My friend Mike, who's working on his centennials, had plans to do Mount Oklahoma (souteast slopes) on Sunday, so me and another friend, Jonathan joined him.

Image
Oklahoma


There was very little snow on the ground, but all of the creeks and springs were starting to freeze up and made for slick crossings in a few cases.

Image


The scenery on this route was fabulous.

Image
Elbert and French

Image
Deer Mountain (Right)

Image
The Basin between Massive and Oklahoma

Image
A Half Moon Over the Half Moon Trail


After splitting off the Halfmoon Creek trail, there was a bit of route-finding in the trees. We had a GPS route loaded that we used to make sure we were staying on route. Surprisingly, we managed to stay on route the entire time and only used the GPS to confirm we were on route. We even crossed the first creek at the exact same place on the way back.

Image
Creek Crossing #1

Image
That Scree Slope Doesn't Look Bad

Image
Topping Out on the Scree Slope. Steep and Loose = Suck

Image
Mike on the Talus Slope

Image
Mike Topping Out

Image
Jonathan Topping Out


Although, I'm not sure Mount Oklahoma is named after the University of Oklahoma, it makes sense given it's location near the Collegiate Peaks. Either way, being a University of Texas fan, I had to flash the Hook 'Em Horns. Immediately after, I begged the mountain gods for forgiveness and a safe descent

Image
Hook 'Em Horns


The summit views were spectacular.

Image
Summit From South To West

Image
Snowmass and Capitol

Image
Pyramid and the Bells

Image
Massive


The descent was rather uneventful with the exception of a very careful descent of the scree slope. I had used microspikes on the descent which made it much easier.

Image
Scree Descent



Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19


Comments or Questions
ChrisinAZ
User
Nice work!
10/8/2012 6:15pm
We must've missed you coming up the backside of Massive--looks like you probably got a bit later start than us. Hope you enjoyed the views (and chilly weather) as much as we did!



   Not registered?


Caution: The information contained in this report may not be accurate and should not be the only resource used in preparation for your climb. Failure to have the necessary experience, physical conditioning, supplies or equipment can result in injury or death. 14ers.com and the author(s) of this report provide no warranties, either express or implied, that the information provided is accurate or reliable. By using the information provided, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless 14ers.com and the report author(s) with respect to any claims and demands against them, including any attorney fees and expenses. Please read the 14ers.com Safety and Disclaimer pages for more information.


Please respect private property: 14ers.com supports the rights of private landowners to determine how and by whom their land will be used. In Colorado, it is your responsibility to determine if land is private and to obtain the appropriate permission before entering the property.