The Holy Cross Wilderness is a U.S. Wilderness Area located in San Isabel and White River national forests near Leadville, Minturn, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, and Vail.

The wilderness was named after its highest peak, 14,005-foot (4,269 m) Mount of the Holy Cross.

The Holy Cross Wilderness has a history of many hikers, often those who are unprepared, becoming endangered.

Primarily, the hikers who require rescue are unfamiliar with the risks of entering wilderness areas and do not bring adequate equipment and supplies to respond to emergency conditions.

Thorough research and reasonable planning should prevent most tragedies as most occur due to a lack of risk management and preparation.