Mount Massive, at 14,421 feet, is the second highest peak in Colorado at just 12 feet behind its southern neighbor, Mt. Elbert. Its name comes from its elongated shape: it has five summits, all above 14,000 feet, and a summit ridge over 3 miles long, resulting in more area above 14,000 feet than any other mountains in the 48 contiguous states. It is located in the Mount Massive Wilderness.

The primary access to Mount Massive is from the Mount Massive Trailhead that is adjacent to Elbert Creek Campground. From this trailhead follow the Colorado Trail #1776 Segment 10 to the Mount Massive Trail #1487. The summit may also be reached via the North Halfmoon Creek Trail #1485, then to the South Mount Massive Trail #1451.

Viewing Mt. Massive from U.S. 24 in Leadville, you can't help but see the grand size of this peak. If you're in good shape and have a few 14ers under your belt, you can climb Mt. Massive via either the standard East Ridge Route or the rugged Southwest Ridge Route. . Both have a trail almost to the summit but when you get close to the top, you'll be faced with some Class 2 terrain. Make sure you're in good shape and well acclimated before climbing this peak.

Download the trail map on COTREX.

US Forest Service Mount Massive climbing information

Learn more about the Mount Massive climbing routes on 14ers.com