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

 

Avalanche on Upper Kieners

NPS

Winter Weather Advisory

Longs Peak Conditions Report 10/17/22

*On Sunday, May 29th there was a large rock fall event that triggered a subsequent avalanche in the Dreamweaver couloir on Mt. Meeker. We continue to receive reports of significant and persistent rock fall in this area. Please exercise caution and consider avoiding the Dreamweaver couloir entirely.*

Winter conditions have taken over on Longs Peak and will likely persist well into June of 2023. Any venture beyond the trailhead will require proper winter equipment, routefinding 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.

A current weather forecast for the Longs Peak high country can be found HERE

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

 

Keyhole Route Conditions

The Keyhole is no longer a summer scramble and should be treated as a winter mountaineering route. Expect winter conditions with extremely cold temperatures, drifting snow, and widespread ice formation. Avalanche hazards will persist along the Keyhole Route for the remainder of the winter and 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.

Remember your safety is in your own hands.

 

The Ledges

NPS

 

The Trough

NPS

 

The Narrows

NPS

 

The Homestretch

NPS

 

Chasm Crossing

The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow can be found in a wide variety of conditions throughout the winter, ranging from windblown talus to bullet ice to deep snow. Icy conditions may require the use of crampons and an ice axe to cross safely, while deep snow may present a considerable avalanche hazard. Please exercise caution on this challenging terrain feature.

 

Chasm Crossing

NPS