Mount of the Holy Cross #2009

Mount of the Holy Cross Trail #2009 begins at the end of Tigiwon Road #707 and ends at the top of Mount of the Holy Cross within Holy Cross Wilderness [https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=81113]where regulations apply. This is a very strenuous hike with over 8,000 vertical feet of elevation change and several miles of walking on rock (each direction) to climb the peak and return to the trailhead. Holy Cross is also notorious for bad weather; be prepared!  From the parking area, the trail is a moderately steep climb to Half Moon Pass, passing through spruce-fir stands the first mile then climbing above timberline to the Pass. On the west side of Half Moon Pass, the trail descends, with some steep sections, crosses East Cross Creek, and climbs again over talus to the peak of Mount of the Holy Cross. Good orientation skills are *required if climbing to the peak. Camping along Mount of the Holy Cross Trail is restricted to 10 designated sites near East Cross Creek. Sites are first come, first serve; if all sites are full, you must share with another party. Camping outside of the designated sites is prohibited to protect East Cross Creek and the surrounding riparian areas from camping impacts and human waste. Campfires are prohibited in this area. Additional information on Mount of the Holy Cross can be found on 14ers.com [http://www.14ers.com/photos/peakmain.php?peak=Mt.%20of%20the%20Holy%20Cross]. Learn & always use Leave No Trace [http://www.lnt.org] skills. View a printable recreation guide for Holy Cross Trail [../../../../../../../../../../Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5186363.pdf] (.pdf)  which is complete with directions, a map and information.