Longs Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park
Hike Statistics:
Distance: 13.3 miles
Elevation gain: 4,934 feet
Highlights: Chasm Lake, Keyhole Route, Longs Peak summit
About this Hike
Colorado contains a whopping 58 14ers: mountains with peaks above 14,000 feet in elevation. Longs Peak stands out as one of the most memorable. Its unique geology, imposing presence in Rocky Mountain National Park, and isolation from other 14ers make it a prized destination for peak-baggers. It also requires 1,000 vertical feet of 3rd-class scrambling across steep rocks to reach the summit. This section of scrambling is known as the “Keyhole Route,” named for the distinctive rock feature at its start.
If you plan to summit Longs Peak, you should plan to start around 3 AM. Most hikers summit in the summer, when snow has melted from the peak and weather is favorable. It’s important to start early so that you can avoid afternoon summer thunderstorms, a common occurrence in Colorado.
In addition to impressive views near the summit, hiking to Longs Peak offers a glance at some incredible alpine wilderness. You’ll pass through thriving pine forests, expansive boulder fields, and elk & pika habitats. My journey to Longs was one of the best days ever spent on the trail.
Be sure to take the 1.5-mile detour to Chasm Lake during your return from the summit. This lake is one of the most stunning in the park.
