The Vail Daily reported that Forest Service officials just announced that the road leading to the most popular and direct route for Mount of the Holy Cross will be closed until October 15th in order to allow for tree removal work on trees impacted by the pine beetle epidemic.
The Forest Service recommends that climbers hoping to ascend Holy Cross this year take an alternate route, such as Cross Creek. The impact of this road closure is fairly significant since many people access this trail to climb Holy Cross via this route each year and because it is the most direct and easiest route up Holy Cross, which already has a reputation for people getting lost and dying.
Just last year, James Nelson went missing while climbing Holy Cross, which has had a significant impact on the hiking community at large. Additionally, in 2005, Michelle Vanek went missing while hiking in the area as well. That story's details are given in significant detail on the excellent website of Seach and Rescue volunteer Josh Friesma.
If you were planning on hiking to the summit of Mount of the Holy Cross, which is easily one of the most breathtaking hikes I've done in Colorado, please plan ahead and make sure you have the necessary experience and knowledge to go up an alternate route. The Holy Cross Wilderness Area is both gorgeous and unforgiving.
Comments