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UPDATESWhat we've been doing
- CFI Seasonal Job Announcements Posted
– February 7, 2012
CFI is looking for 12 enthusiastic, hard-working seasonal staff leaders/members to complete our most ambitious project season in years. If you think you have what … Read More
- Endowment Gift to Support Adopt-a-Peak Internship Renamed in Memory of Fourteener Enthusiast Kimberly Appelson
– February 3, 2012
A $50,000 gift from Larry and Barbara Appelson of Naperville, Ill. will seed an endowment designed to support Colorado Fourteeners Initiative’s summer internship for aspiring … Read More
- Ben Hanus joins CFI’s staff as Sustainable Trails Project Coordinator
– January 14, 2012
We are excited to announce that Ben Hanus, an employee on CFI projects the past three seasons, has joined the core staff as the coordinator … Read More
- 2011 Year-end Summary, 2012 Season Preview
– December 19, 2011
Take a quick look back at this past summer’s record accomplishments. Or, take a sneak peak at next year’s planned projects. Both can be found … Read More
Mount of the Holy Cross

- Elevation:14,005 feet (52nd highest)
- Maps:USGS Quad: Mount of the Holy Cross
Trails Illustrated® – TOPO Map #126
Click here to purchase Trails Illustrated® maps for this route. - Contact:US Forest Service, Holy Cross Ranger District (970) 827-5715
Recommended Route Half Moon Pass Route—use of this route will help to reduce impacts to this Fourteener’s fragile alpine environment. For detailed route information including pictures, maps, and elevation profiles, click here.
Route Information and Additional Resources The trailhead is located two miles south of Minturn, CO, at the Half Moon Campground. The route is clearly marked and ascends Half Moon Pass, then descends to East Cross Creek. From East Cross Creek the route ultimately leads up Holy Cross’ north ridge towards the summit. The route above treeline can be confusing on the way down. Be aware and do not drop into the Cross Creek Drainage (stay to the right/east)!
Note to hikers: You cannot see the cross from the summit, or via the Half Moon route. The best viewing of the cross is available from Notch Mountain. Notch Mountain can be hiked via the Fall Creek Trail (trailhead is also at the Half Moon Campground), and then west up the Notch Mountain trail spur.
The above information does not replace the need to consult additional maps and Colorado Fourteener Guidebooks for more detailed route descriptions. We suggest checking multiple resources before departing on any hike. Keep in mind that not all guidebooks list this recommended route and that each guidebook’s description or route name may vary slightly.
The above information does not replace the need to consult additional maps and Colorado Fourteener Guidebooks for more detailed route descriptions. We suggest checking multiple resources before departing on any hike. Keep in mind that not all guidebooks list this recommended route and that each guidebook’s description or route name may vary slightly.
Peak Specific Environmental and Safety Concerns Due to extensive impacts from camping in the fragile East Cross Creek area, visitors are requested not to camp in this area. A permit system for camping is planned in the near future. For the latest information, contact the Holy Cross Ranger District at 970-827-5717. Campfires are banned in this drainage.
