Mount
Massive
Routed from OpenStreetMap · elevations USGS 3DEP
In the Arapaho language, the peak and the surrounding Collegiate Range are known as Hiwoxuu hookuhu'ee, or Elk's Head. The Hayden Survey mapped the mountain in 1873, and survey member Henry Gannett is credited with its first recorded ascent. Its English name describes its bulk: a summit ridge over 3 miles long carrying five points above 14,000 feet, more high terrain than any other mountain in the contiguous United States.
During the Great Depression, Massive partisans piled rocks on the summit, hoping to add the height needed to overtake neighboring Mount Elbert as the state's highest point; Elbert's supporters dismantled the cairns, and Massive remained second. The peak now lies within the Mount Massive Wilderness, part of San Isabel National Forest, which spans the mountain's five-summit ridge and its approach basins.
2WD easy dirt: Halfmoon Creek Rd 5.3 mi from CR 11 (14ers.com trailhead page sw04). Parking 20+ cars; no restrooms.
No fees. ADVISORY/CLOSED as of late June 2026: the Willow Fire is burning on Massive's north end; 14ers.com (6/29/2026) recommends staying away from Mt. Massive trailheads and trails, and the USFS PSICC closure order (eff. 7/1-7/12/2026 unless extended) covers the fire area. Winter: road closes ~5 mi below TH. Re-check fire status before build.
Peak data: Mount Massive — Wikipedia