Mt. of the Holy Cross

Mount of the Holy Cross is a beautiful mountain and the northernmost 14er of the Sawatch range. There are several routes to the summit but the standard route is the North Ridge/Mt of the Holy Cross Trail. It begins at Half Moon trailhead and quickly drops over 1,000 feet on the other side of Half Moon Pass. From there, it climbs steadily and often steeply to the summit. Note you do have to climb that 1,000 feet back to half moon pass on your return journey. Be aware that there are other social trails along this route (especially in the alpine) so make sure to stay on the main trail.

Class: 2. Most of the Mount of the Holy Cross trail is on a well-maintained trail but several sections, particularly near the summit, are very rocky and it can be easy to lose the trail.

Trailhead/Parking: Parking is at the Half Moon trailhead, at the end of Tigiwon road. The road to the trailhead is usually open June 22nd-Nov 21st but make sure to contact the Forest Service for exact dates. If the road is closed, hiking and biking up the road are allowed but can add significant mileage to the trip.