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BPX 3-Day: Fall Creek Trail from Holy Cross TH to Halfmoon TH

Spend three days hiking the Fall Creek Trail in the Holy Cross Wilderness Area with opportunities for day hikes, fishing, climbing, and hanging out. The first day the trip is BPX-difficult. The rest of the trip is rated BPX-easy. T

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1

Meet; drive to the Halfmoon TH and shuttle to Holy Cross City TH. Hike to first camp site 4.25 Mi/2,572’EG/31’Descent. 

Route Day 1

 DAY 2 

Break camp & hike to Lake Constantine 2.7Mi/829’EG

Route Day 2

Day 3

Break camp, hike out (4.1mi/340’EG), shuttle run, drive home.

Route Day 3

Alternate Itinerary: Could add a day at first or second campsite for additional exploration. For two day trip without shuttle see BPX Lake Constantine Route and Place.

Driving Directions:

Shuttle between the Halfmoon and Holy Cross City TH; dropping car(s) off first at the Halfmoon TH.

Access from Vail: Take Exit 171 off I-70 for Minturn and Hwy. 24. Turn right onto Hwy. 24:

NORTH TRAILHEAD: From the Ranger Station, proceed south about 4.6 miles, passing through Minturn, to Tigiwon Road #707. Turn right onto Tigiwon Road and continue to the end – 8.4 miles of rough dirt road. Park at the parking area at the end of the road.

SOUTH TRAILHEAD, proceed 12.6 miles on Hwy. 24 to Homestake Road #703. Turn right and travel 7.3 miles on Homestake Road to the Holy Cross City Jeep Road #759. Park here and walk about 2 miles up the road to the trailhead. NOTE: This jeep road is very rough and should not be attempted unless you have a very high-clearance 4WD with a winch.

General Requirements:

10 Essentials including enough food for three days, clothing appropriate for Colorado High Country travel in the summer: layers, wind/rain protection, appropriate hiking/backpacking boots. While the trip leader will have all types of navigation and paper backup, you’re encouraged to bring your own. If you’re fishing, make sure you have your fishing license! Bring your bathing suit just in case.

  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Length: 10.1 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,831 ft
  • 12,582 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Holy Cross Wilderness Area, Holy Cross Ranger District (WRNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • Trails Illustrated 149
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  • BPX 4-Day: Fall Creek Trail from Holy Cross TH to Halfmoon TH
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