San Isabel National Forest
Holy Cross Wilderness Area

The Holy Cross Wilderness, encompasses 122,388 acres. Of this only 9,489 acres is within the Leadville Ranger District of the San Isabel National Forest. Holy Cross Wilderness was established in 1980. The name comes from the name of the 14,007’ Mt. of the Holy Cross which dominates the north end of the Sawatch Range and has a 1,150 foot tall "cross" of snow facing to the northwest. Many small lakes and streams are stocked with trout or have native trout. The area is graced with abundant wildlife, dense timber from 8,500 to 11,000 feet, wildflowers and magnificent vistas.

• Permits: All profit and non-profit groups of 10 or more are required to obtain a special use permit through the local ranger district office in advance of their trip.
• Group Size: Group size is limited to 25. Stock groups are limited to 25.
• Weather: Weather patterns change quickly. Warm sunny days can turn into powerful electrical storms. Be knowledgeable of the sign of change and be prepared for cold temperatures, rain, and snow. Even in August!
• Recommended Maps:
  National Forest Maps: San Isabel, White River
  Trails Illustrated: Holy Cross Ruedi Reservoir, Vail Frisco Dillon (Available at Leadville District Office) Eagle Avon (Available at the Holy Cross District Office)
  USGS Quads: Homestake Reservoir, Mt. of the Holy Cross (Available at Leadville District Office) Mt. Jackson, Grouse Mountain, Minturn (Available at the Holy Cross District Office)
• Trails: Please stay on the trails where they are present. Cutting switchbacks and avoiding wet and muddy sections can cause severe erosion and multiple paths. For individuals traveling cross-country, remember that alpine tundra is very susceptible to damage. Walk on durable routes of rock or talus when possible. In areas where this is not possible disperse your use so that no two footsteps land on the same spot. In keeping with the character of wilderness, where risk and self-reliance are parts of the experience, map and route finding skills are essential.
• Trailheads: The Leadville Ranger District portion of the Holy Cross Wilderness is accessible from the following points:
  * West Tennessee
  * Longs Gulch
  * Bear Lake
  * Timberline Lake