Near North Halfmoon Lakes Trail
Trail profile at N. Halfmoon trailhead
Near North Halfmoon Lakes Trail
Worth the hike to get to this lake -- same trailhead as Mt. Massive, but lots of trees down made the hike a bit more challenging.
Near North Halfmoon Lakes Trail
One of the Half Moon Lakes.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

North Halfmoon Lakes Trail

4.8 (4 Ratings)
A calm forest trail with access to Mt. Massive.
2.8
mi
Distance
1,573
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
LakeRiver/CreekWaterfallWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
This trailhead is generally closed in the winter, with the closest parking 8 miles below. Note: Even though land management says dogs are to be leashed, you'll see many dogs and few leashes.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.79mi
Distance
1,573ft
Elevation Gain
47ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
12,089ft
High Point
10,540ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Using any 2WD car, drive south on 24 out of Leadville. Just as you're leaving town, turn right onto WB Colorado 300. Drive 0.8 miles and turn left onto County Road 11; there should be signs for Halfmoon Creek. In another 1.2 miles turn right onto a dirt road, following signs to Halfmoon Creek. This TH is accessible to any car, but the dirt road does have some potholes and sharp turns, so pay attention! Pass the North Mt. Elbert Trailhead in about 5 miles and continue onwards. Pass the Mt. Massive Trailhead on the right in another 0.3 miles. From here, a 2WD car might suffice, but 4WD or at least high clearance is recommended. Drive 2 miles on a narrow, bumpy road before coming to a junction with 110J. Stay straight, and drive another 0.5 miles up steep road before coming to a small trailhead on the right. Start up North Halfmoon Lakes Trail on an excellent, gradual trail with few rocks or roots. In about 1.5 miles weave along the creek to your left and through some willows before coming to a junction with the Mt. Massive/North Halfmoon Trail. Turn right for Mt. Massive or stay straight to remain on North Halfmoon Trail. From here, the grade picks up slightly, but the trail remains clear. Expect some rocks near the lake. Finish at lower North Halfmoon Lake, about 1.3 miles after the turnoff.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Tyler Prince