Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche National Grasslands

USDA Forest Service
Pike & San Isabel
National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche
National Grasslands
2840 Kachina Drive
Pueblo, CO 81008
719-553-1400

Telephone for the
Hearing Impaired
719-553-1404

ELEVATION GAIN - 4,300

ACCESS

From Leadville, travel 3 miles west on US Hwy. 24. Take Colorado 300 west 3/4 of a mile to Lake County 11. 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.

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.

SAFETY

• Snow, rain and lightning storms are common. Daytime temperatures range from 40-70 degrees in the summer months. Be prepared for changing weather. Carry rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing.
• Lightning storms build rapidly and occur almost daily throughout the summer. Turn around at the first sign of thunder and lightning. Carry a topographical map and compass and know how to use them.
• Be aware of exposure to intense sunlight. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
• Know the symptoms of altitude sickness. Severe headaches, dizziness, and nausea are warning signs and the person should descend to lower elevations immediately.

ETHICS

Thousands of people enjoy climbing Colorado's peaks. To preserve the experience consider the following:

MOUNT MASSIVE WILDERNESS REGULATIONS

Remember, you are within the Mount Massive Wilderness. Observe all regulations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION - Many guidebooks are available. A Climbing Guide to Colorado's Fourteeners by Walter R. Borneman describes the established routes of the USDA Forest Service.