'08 NATE: Mt. Massive

On Saturday, I got my new camera (waterproof, shockproof, and most important sand/dust proof) I decided to cross another 14er off my list and take on Mt. Massive. Massive is the second highest mountain in Colorado. It also has the largest area above 14,000 feet than any other peak in the lower 48. It is located just west of Leadville, CO.

After 10 miles of slowly driving down a very rough, dirt road (always fun!), I reached the trailhead. The hike began with 4 miles of hiking through dense snow-covered forest. Thankfully, I brought my Yaktraxs with me. (I would endorse these things for free. They are awesome!)

After emerging from the woods, I was able to see Mt. Elbert back to the south.

The weather was really very nice. I was expecting to be freezing, but it wasn't cold until I reached the wind flowing through the saddle on Massive. The hike was not technical at all, but 7.5 hours hiking 13.5 miles with 4500 feet of elevation gain sure doesn't make this an easy hike.

The view off to the east was amazing. It was interesting to see the town of Leadville from 14,000 feet.

I was amazed at the view looking from the saddle. I had no idea there would be so much snow. Mt. Massive was a clear dividing line between climates. (Just compare this picture with the one above)

Snow was falling in the distance. The storm didn't look particularly large, plus it looked as if it was tailing to the south, so I continued to the top of Mt. Massive.

The scenery was indescribable. I sat in wonder for 10 minutes.

After having a religious experience, I was approached by another hiker with his dog. If the other hiker would have been an attractive woman, I would have thought I had died and gone to heaven. "Mountains, woman, dog." Now that is a trifecta. haha

I wasn't 100% sure which peak was the true summit of Mt. Massive so I hit them all. I was above 14,000 feet for probably 30 minutes, so I was feeling a little goofy. This mountain was pretty big.