Mount Massive - Standard Route, CO

Mt. Massive, oriented immediately north of Colorado's highest peak, Mt. Elbert, offers either a great alternative or nice complimentary hike to that state high pointer adventure. The main route shares the trailhead with Mt. Elbert's north route approach.


The Mt. Massive Wilderness area requires a non-fee permit, available at the trailhead. The standard trailhead is easily accessible by regular car a short drive out of Leadville.This Peak is the 3rd Highest peak in the lower 48 states and a very popular weekend and holiday destination. This standard route provides a steady challenge. Be prepared for the typical issues relating to high elevations, and expect the summertime late afternoon thunbdershowers. Early starts are always a great idea for hikes of this nature.

The top ridge on this massive mountain includes a number of points over 14,000', false summits. You can score multiple 14'rs all in a single hike!

Of the two hikes, Mt, Massive provides the nicer views than Mt. Elbert, with Mt. Elbert being a goodly portion of the dramatic vistas from Mt. Massive. While it is hard to pass up the opportunity to score the state's highest peak, the trek up Mt. Massive, especially from the upper trailhead, is a nicer outing. If you are in great shape, consider the hike using the upper trail from Halfmoon Lakes... very steep, much shorter, and all nice.

2010-09-06 imike