Longs Peak

Planning to climb Longs Peak?

Learn more about climbing the Longs Peak Keyhole Route, including answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

See the weather forecast for Longs Peak.

Watch a video on the Keyhole Route HERE

 

Ice on the North Face of Longs Peak, 9/12/26

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
9/23/2026

Fall has arrived on Longs Peak and the environment is transitioning to winter conditions. Any storms moving over the mountain will now consist of hail, sleet, and snow. The combination of wet and cold can quickly induce hypothermia, a life-threatening condition that can progress rapidly. Freeze/thaw cycles are in full effect and will create a number of hazards including ice formation and rockfall. In addition, afternoon thunderstorms remain a real threat and a return to treeline by noon is recommended to help mitigate exposure to lightning storms.

Traction devices such as Microspikes, Yaktrax, or crampons and an ice axe may be prudent for travel on the upper mountain depending on the route chosen. Extra warm clothes, waterproof layers, extra food and water, a headlamp, personal first aid kit, and a cell phone are all strongly recommended. If you are traveling alone, please tell a friend or family member your plans and take extra care with decision making. Even a minor accident while traveling alone on the mountain can quickly turn into a serious situation. As always, please be prepared to turn around when conditions exceed your abilities.

For weather forecasts, visit www.weather.gov and search "Longs Peak."

 

Keyhole Route Conditions

Recent storms have left the season’s first snowfall on the Keyhole route. In addition, freezing temperatures overnight have led to the formation of ice on portions of the route, that may persist well into the day. These conditions combined with cold temperatures are certainly the leading causes of accidents along the route this time of year, so please plan accordingly and be prepared to turn around if conditions are unfavorable. Slick patches of ice can often be difficult to identify at first glance, as they may be very thin and/or obscured by shadows. Freezing temperatures can easily induce hypothermia which can quickly turn deadly. All these factors combine to make the Keyhole Route a true mountaineering route and a serious undertaking this time of year. Traction devices such as Microspikes, Yaktrax, or crampons and an ice axe may be helpful but are no substitute for experience in negotiating icy terrain.

Remember your safety is in your own hands

 

The Ledges with a dusting of snow, 9/20/2026

NPS

 

Looking down the Trough with new snow, 9/20/26

NPS

 

The Narrows (note smear of ice below ledge), 9/20/26

NPS

 

Looking up the Homestretch, 7/11/26

NPS

 

Chasm Crossing

The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow crosses a steep slope known as Chasm Crossing. This slope is snow free and can be traveled entirely on dry trail. The rock slabs just below Chasm Lake are steep and tend to be wet with runoff, with ice formation becoming a serious hazard this time of year. Please plan accordingly and consider bringing trekking poles and/or traction devices for safe travel.

 

Chasm Crossing, 7/3/2026

NPS