Mount of the Holy Cross Summit Trail

Gilman, CO

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Mount of the Holy Cross Summit Trail

Does Holy Cross have divine healing powers, as professed by dozens of visitors? It could be, though any visions you receive might be due to a lack of oxygen. As with other Sawatch peaks, the standard routes to the summit are solid, gradual ascents. One difference is the summit massif, which is mildly steep and will require some easy scrambling. While the Cross Couloir is an impressive site, the enormous north face is equally as beautiful. The hiking is very good on Holy Cross, and you’ll have many opportunities to peer down the steep northeast features from the safety of the north ridge. Those looking for an epic day can tour the mountain via the optional 13-plus-mile loop.

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityGilman
Length10.4 mi
Elevation Gain5,627 ft
Skill LevelModerate to Difficult; Class 2
Duration7.5–10 hours
SeasonJune–September
Trailhead Elevation10,315 ft
Top Elevation14,005 ft
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