Longs Peak

Watch a video on the Keyhole Route HERE

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

Check the weather forecast for Long's Peak

 

North Face of Longs Peak - June 8, 2025

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
6/9/2025

Winter Weather Advisory

Despite continued snowmelt at lower elevations, winter conditions continue to persist on the upper elevations of Longs Peak. The trail is now snow free to the Boulderfield, but above that, all major summit routes on Longs Peak are snow and ice covered. Any venture beyond the trailhead will require proper winter equipment, route-finding skills, and knowledge of winter travel. Travelers should expect to encounter snow and ice, extremely cold temperatures, avalanche hazards, and high winds.

Extra warm clothes, waterproof layers, extra food and water, a headlamp, personal first aid kit, and a cell phone are all strongly recommended. Also consider traction devices such as Microspikes or crampons and an ice axe for any travel in the alpine. 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."

For avalanche information visit the CAIC at avalanche.state.co.us

 

Keyhole Route Conditions

Despite snow free conditions at lower elevations, the Keyhole remains in full winter conditions above the Boulderfield. The route is entirely snow covered above the Keyhole itself, with little to no exposed rock. Expect hazardous travel, with extremely cold temperatures, drifting snow, and widespread ice formation. Avalanche hazards will persist along the Keyhole Route for the remainder of the spring. Thin layers of snow on the surface can hide thicker layers of ice underneath, creating an enormous potential for slips and falls.

Crampons and an ice axe are highly recommended, but are no substitute for proper training and experience in negotiating winter alpine conditions. As spring progresses and the sun rises higher in the sky, warming temperatures in the afternoon can cause widespread instability in the snowpack. Please continue to exercise cautious and conservative decision making.

Remember your safety is in your own hands

 

The Ledges from the Keyhole - June 8, 2025

NPS

 

Looking up The Trough - June 8, 2025

NPS

 

The Narrows - June 8, 2025

NPS

 

Looking down the Homestretch - June 8, 2025

NPS Photo

 

Chasm Crossing

The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow crosses a steep slope known as Chasm Crossing. This slope is currently still snow-covered and has the potential to create a long, sliding fall into the rocks below. Conditions can vary greatly on this slope, from firm and icy in the morning, to excessively soft and slushy in the afternoon. Avalanche hazards on this slope will persist throughout the spring and crampons and an ice axe may be necessary to cross safely.

In addition, the rock slabs leading up to Chasm Lake can hold snow and ice coverage through the spring. Please exercise caution on this terrain and consider trekking poles and/or traction devices for safe travel.

 

Chasm Crossing and the Chasm Lake Cirque - June 7, 2025

NPS Photo