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Summit Mount of the Holy Cross

  • Mount of the Holy Cross Minturn, Colorado (map)

Summit Mount of the
Holy Cross

A 14er ascent in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Push your limits. Reach the top together.

Register for the Ascent

mount of the holy cross alpenglow hiking

Route Details

  • Summit Elevation: 14,009 ft

  • Elevation Gain: ~5,600 ft

  • Round Trip Distance: ~ 11 miles

  • Estimated Time: 7–10 hours

Mount of the Holy Cross

Standing at 14,009 feet in the Sawatch Range, Mount of the Holy Cross is one of Colorado's most iconic 14ers — named for the distinctive cross-shaped couloir of snow carved into its northeast face.

The standard North Ridge Route is a strenuous but non-technical climb, making it an ideal challenge for experienced hikers ready to test their endurance at altitude. Expect stunning alpine scenery, sweeping valley views, and a summit you'll never forget.

This is Tundra Performance and Physical Therapys's signature summer event — a chance to go beyond the gym and prove what you're made of on the mountain.

Event Itinerary

Day-of Schedule

Participants should plan to arrive the morning of July 25th.

4:30AM - Morning of July 25th

Team Arrival & Gear Check

Rise before dawn, fuel up with a light breakfast. Early bedtime strongly encouraged.

Check in at the trailhead outside of Minturn, CO. Team briefing, gear inspection, and Q&A with everyone. Headlamps required.

5:00 AM

Trailhead Departure

Group departs from Half Moon Trailhead. Early start is essential to avoid afternoon lightning storms. Pace yourself — it's a long day.

7:00 – 8:30 AM

East Ridge Ascent

Navigate above treeline through talus fields and switchbacks. Checkpoint rest stops at key waypoints.

🏔 9:00 – 11:00 AM (Target Window)

Summit — 14,009 ft

Reach the summit of Mount of the Holy Cross. Celebrate, take photos, and take in the view. Target summit window before noon to beat afternoon weather.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Descent

Return via the North Ridge Route. Stay focused — many accidents happen on the way down. Guides lead the group at a safe pace.

1:30 – 3:00 PM

Trailhead Finish & Celebration

Back at the trailhead. Group celebration, drinks, and recovery. You earned it.

What to Know

This is a strenuous Class 2 climb. Come prepared.

🥾 Fitness Level

Participants should be able to hike 10+ miles with significant elevation gain. We recommend training with weighted packs on inclines prior to the event.

🎒 Required Gear

Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain shell, headlamp, trekking poles, 2 - 3L+ water, high-calorie snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.

Altitude & Weather

Altitude sickness is real above 12,000 ft. Acclimatize beforehand. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July — we summit early to stay safe.

👥 Group Safety

Experienced guides will lead the group. No one summits alone. All participants must sign a waiver and follow guide instructions at all times.

 

Helping athletes RESOLVE THEIR PAIN by CLEARLY DEFINING THE PROBLEM and IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS to get them back doing the activities they love!

If you are currently struggling with an injury or unable to perform in the activities you enjoy. Please follow the link to schedule a consultation call to discuss how we can help you.

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June 27

Injury Prevention, Recovery, and Nutrition for the Colorado Athlete