Mount Massive peak
Mount Massive rises to 14,428 ft in Rocky-Mountains within the Sawatch Range range.
Located in the Sawatch Range of Colorado, it spans an impressive size of approximately 5.5 square miles. This colossal mountain attracts mountaineers from far and wide due to its challenging terrain and breathtaking panoramic views.
During the winter season, Mount Massive experiences a heavy snowpack, which can range from 10 to 20 feet in its upper reaches. This abundant snowfall creates ideal conditions for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The mountain's snowpack gradually melts in the spring, feeding several creeks and rivers in the surrounding area. Clear Creek, Lake Fork, and Willow Creek are some notable water bodies that receive runoff from Mount Massive.
The name "Mount Massive" was given to the peak by an exploratory expedition led by Henry Gannett in 1873, as the mountain's massive size and prominence were awe-inspiring. Interestingly, the mountain also has some fascinating legends associated with it. Native American folklore tells the story of a giant who once inhabited the area, and the mountain is said to be his final resting place. Although these legends add an element of intrigue to the mountain, they are purely mythical in nature.
In conclusion, Mount Massive stands tall as a prominent and majestic peak in the Rocky Mountains. With its impressive elevation and expansive size, it provides a challenging and rewarding experience for mountaineers. Its significant snowpack and runoff contribute to the surrounding water bodies, while its name and legends add a touch of fascination to its already captivating allure.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Rocky-Mountains range.
Snowpack near Mount Massive
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Nohrsc Loveland Basin | 1 in | → |
| Stillwater Creek | 1 in | → |
| Castle Creek Near Aspen, Co | 2 in | → |
| Moon Pass | 2 in | → |
| Vail Ski Area Mid-Mtn | 3 in | → |
| Nohrsc Nast Lake | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Elk River | 1 in | → |
| Upper San Juan | 3 in | → |
| Nohrsc Moon Pass | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Hayden Pass | 2 in | → |
| Elliot Ridge Snotel | 1 in | → |
| Upper San Juan | 4 in | → |
Streamflow near Mount Massive
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas River Near Nathrop | 372 cfs | → |
| Arkansas River Near Wellsville | 353 cfs | → |
| Taylor River At Taylor Park | 95 cfs | → |
| Gunnison River Near Gunnison | 604 cfs | → |
| Tomichi Creek At Gunnison | 12 cfs | → |
| Arkansas River At Salida | 324 cfs | → |
| Kerber Cr Abv Little Kerber Cr Nr Villa Grove | 5 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Mount Massive
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Mount Massive.
Ski areas
- Ski Broadmoor
- Conquistador Ski Resort
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort
- Kendall Mountain
- Wolf Creek Ski Area
- Pajarito Mountain
River runs
- The Upper
- Arkansas River Segment 1
- Lower (Bottom Four)
- Clear Creek Of The Arkansas
- Pine Creek (Granite To Numbers)
- East Fork Arkansas River
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