Longs Peak

Keyhole Route Information
For general information and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about climbing Longs Peak-Keyhole Route, click here.

 

The North Face of Longs Peak on May 11, 2013.

NPS Photo

 

Longs Peak Conditions

May 17, 2013

Conditions in Rocky Mountain National Park can change at any time. Winter-like conditions still exist at the higher elevations in the park. Travelers should expect to encounter cold temperatures, snow and ice, avalanche hazards, and high winds. Winter routes are not marked and often vary from the established summer trails. Expect rain, hail, sleet, snow, lightning, and any other weather imaginable when travelling in the mountains. Please take appropriate gear to endure these changing conditions. Also, be prepared to turn around when conditions exceed your abilities. Remember your safety is in your own hands.

 

The view from Battle Mountain Junction on May 11, 2013.

NPS PHOTO

Trail Conditions

Late season snows have blanketed the area in the past couple months. Although much of the snow has melted in the valley, deep snow remains up high. Within a mile of the trailhead, snowline begins and continues all the way to the summit. Travelers need to be conscious of the maze of trails that exist and know that few of them follow traditional summer trails.

 

Keyhole Route Conditions

The route beyond the Keyhole resembles nothing of its normal summer conditions. Snow has buried most of the recognizable features, creating difficult route finding. The bull's eyes are buried under snow and impossible to spot. Snow has filled in many of the narrow ledges making them steeper and exponentially more exposed. Climbing beyond the Keyhole will require proper experience and equipment. If you are looking for a challenging mountaineering route, requiring skill and special equipment, you will enjoy the current conditions.

 

 

Looking across the Ledges on May 11, 2013.

NPS PHOTO

 

Looking up the Trough on May 11, 2013.

NPS PHOTO