Peak(s): |
Mt. Massive - 14,427 feet |
Date Posted: | 07/11/2014 |
Date Climbed: | 07/10/2014 |
Author: | Ramsey Boys |
Peak(s): |
Mt. Massive - 14,427 feet |
Date Posted: | 07/11/2014 |
Date Climbed: | 07/10/2014 |
Author: | Ramsey Boys |
East Ridge - great trail |
---|
From westside of COS to Mt. Massive TH: 2:45 TH to Summit: 4:30 (between 3 and 3.5 hrs would be normal with fresh legs) Summit to TH: 2:50 RT: 14.4 miles Elevation Gain: 4,500' Ok, this is a long hike, you will fully feel the 14 miles of trail on your legs by the time you get back to the car. We left the TH at 7:00 AM. There was still plenty of parking on that Thursday. No bathroom at the trailhead so stop at the previous campground 1/4 mile before if needed. Trail is in great shape, loved the hard packed dirt as opposed to the normal rocks on many trails. The first 1.5 miles has some altitude gain but after that the trail is fairly flat as you hike back to the mountain. You could definitely trail run this. There was plenty of water available. There is a creek about 2 miles in and then another at 2.8 miles. Both had plenty of water, but you can cross easily without getting wet. Water was even available at around 13,000' and 13,500' that you could filter and drink if you don't want to carry too much up. After you cross the creek at 2.8 miles there is a sign that says: "Colorado Trail and Mt. Massive Trail". Continue up the trail for another 80 meters and there is another sign just like it, take a left turn here and your will be on the Mt. Massive trail to the summit. We got a little confused at this part so we thought we would clarify. The trail is beautiful and has a gradual elevation gain, so you can enjoy the hike. As you get to 12,500' it gets steeper and the last 1,500' feet of vertical gain was the slowest for us. I had just done a few tough workouts in the last 4 days, so my legs bonked. Justin carried the packs and we summited, but slower than we liked. On a normal day we think 3.5 hours would be a reasonable ascent time. In the saddle at the beginning of of the summit ridge, there is a 20 meter snow field that is easy to cross, just watch your step because it is slippery. There is one more very small ice spot just up the trail. Neither one proved to be a problem and can be crossed without any equipment. We left the summit at noon and hustled back down to the car in less than 3 hours. A hail storm hit around 12:30 and we had to put on our rain jackets. Our legs were feeling it those last few miles, but by that time we were on autopilot. Really beautiful hike, just long. We had pizza in Leadville to end the day. Hope this is helpful, Ramsey Boys |
Comments or Questions |
---|
|
Caution: The information contained in this report may not be accurate and should not be the only resource used in preparation for your climb. Failure to have the necessary experience, physical conditioning, supplies or equipment can result in injury or death. 14ers.com and the author(s) of this report provide no warranties, either express or implied, that the information provided is accurate or reliable. By using the information provided, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless 14ers.com and the report author(s) with respect to any claims and demands against them, including any attorney fees and expenses. Please read the 14ers.com Safety and Disclaimer pages for more information.