Copyright: Marshall Hall - Interactive Outdoors, Inc.
Mount Massive
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Mount Massive is the second highest peak in Colorado and is appropriately named, with seven summits over 14,000 feet. Elevation of the highest peak is 14,421 feet. This is a moderate to strenuous hike with an elevation gain of 4,314 feet. This peak takes an average hiker 4 to 6 hours to the top. The Mount Massive area is a designated wilderness area, please leave your bikes at the trailhead and be aware of wilderness practices. For additional information see information for Mt. Massive Wilderness. On the descent, unless snow affords an appropriate glissade southeast to the trail, return all the way to the saddle before descending. Many people have shortcut this section of trail; consequently, the slopes here are heavily eroded. Please stay on the established route. The western approaches to Mount Massive via North Halfmoon Creek should be avoided until a secure route has been determined because of the severe environmental impacts caused by climbers
Directions from Leadville: From Leadville, travel 3.9 miles west on US Highway 24. Take Colorado 300 west 3/4 of a mile to Lake County 11. Turn left on to 11 and travel 1.25 miles. Turn right on to Forest Road 110 then follow signs to Elbert Creek Campground. The trailhead is just east of this campground. Hike north for 3 miles to the trail junction at 11,250 feet. The trail climbs steeply west to timberline; then continues west through willows and rolling tundra into the cirque between Massive's main summit and 14,132 foot South Massive. Follow the trail to the prominent saddle, and the ridge north to the summit.
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