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MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS
The Mount of the Holy Cross (14,005') is located on
the northern end of the Sawatch Range of Central Colorado.
Just 14 miles by road from Vail and approximately 6 miles
as the "crow flies", the peak dominates the southerly
view fromthe top of the Vail Mountain Ski Area.
In 1869 the famous western
photographer William HenryJackson took the first photos
of the mountain and it's mysterious "Cross of
Snow". By the 1930's annual Christian pilgrimages
were organized to climb the peak, or view the cross from
nearby Notch Mountain, or to dip a bandana into the "holy" waters
of the Bowl of Tears Lake at the base of the cross. National
Monument status was given to the peak and lasted until 1950.
In 1980 the US Congress set aside approximately 120,000 acres
for the Holy Cross Wilderness Area. Mount of the Holy Cross
became the centerpiece for this Rocky Mountain gem.
The peak has become one
of the most popular 14'ers in Colorado. Although the
standard North Ridge route is often done in one "long" day
( high fitness level and experienced off-trail hiking needed)
we recommend 2 or 3 days. From our Base Camp (11,000')
you can enjoy the beauty and serenity of a special place.
From Camp additional hikes into the Holy Cross cirque are
available, time can be spent refining off-trail hiking skills,
or catching an evening sunset.
Difficulty rating
of Climb:
| Climb |
Rating |
Full Day Duration |
From Base Camp |
| North Ridge: |
Class 2 |
8-11 hours |
5-7 hours |
| Angelica Couloir |
Class 2/Steep Grade 3/Ice
Axe
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9-12 hours |
6-8 hours. |
| Halo Ridge |
Class 2/ridge is mostly
talus |
Not Suggested |
8-10 hours |
| Cross Coulior |
Grade 3/steep snow, ice
axe and crampons |
Not Suggested |
2-3 day |
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Contact Paragon Guides today to join us on a backcountry adventure!
970.926.5299 or Toll-Free: 877.926.5299
info@paragonguides.com • contact form
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