North Halfmoon Creek Trail #1485 (Mount Massive)

Area Status: Open

North Halfmoon Creek Trail #1485 is a steep 3.4 miles (one way) trail with 3,950 feet in elevation gain that takes visitors to the North Halfmoon Lakes. At the 1.4 mile mark, the trail will fork and become the South Mount Massive Trail #1451. This trail is 1.9 miles long and will lead to the summit of Mount Massive.

The last ½ mile of the road to this trailhead requires high clearance and 4WD and should not be attempted with a passenger car. Park cars at the road junction ½ mile before the actual trailhead and walk up the rocky road. This is not an easy hike – from the lower meadow to the summit there’s nearly 3,300’ of elevation gain in 2.5 miles.

The North Halfmoon Trail #1485 and Mount Massive are located in the Mount Massive Wilderness was established in 1980 which was established in 1980 to preserve its quality, character, and integrity. This area is intended to be a place where the imprint of humans is substantially unnoticed; where natural processes are the primary influences, and human activity is limited to primitive recreation and minimum tools. Please follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics to ensure that this and future generations experience this special place in its natural condition.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Open but patchy snow on road and trail.
Permit Info:	Commercial and organized groups must obtain a permit through the Leadville Ranger District in advance of their trip.
Usage:	Medium
Busiest Season:	June-September
Restrictions:	Wilderness regulations apply.
Closest Towns:	Leadville, CO
Information Center:	Leadville Ranger District

General Information

Directions:

From Leadville, travel south approximately 3 miles on US Hwy 24. Turn RIGHT on Colorado 300 at the Leadville National Fish Hatchery sign. Continue about 3/4 of a mile and turn LEFT on Lake County Road 11, then RIGHT on to at the Halfmoon Rd 110 at the end of the pavement. This dirt road will lead to the Halfmoon East/West and Elbert Creek areas. Continue on Forest Service Road 110 for about 3.5 miles to the North Halfmoon Lakes Trailhead. (Note: This road is not maintained in the winter.)

General Notes:

Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Thunderstorms occur frequently in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind thunderstorms build rapidly, so keep an eye on the weather and get below timberline at the first sign of a thunderstorm. Follow these Lightening Safety Tips.
Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e., severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) do occur, immediately descend to a lower elevation.
At high altitudes, sunlight is much more intense and the air is much drier. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. Always carry a map and compass and know how to use them.