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 from the Boulderfield, 8/23/25

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
8/24/2025

Fall is just around the corner, and the environment on Longs Peak is beginning to change. Recent storms have brought a combination of rain, hail, sleet, and snow, creating a wide variety of conditions on the mountain. Heavy rains combined with cooler temperatures have left the mountain wet and fragile, with numerous reports of fresh rockfall and early season ice formation occurring. 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

The Keyhole has begun its transition to autumn conditions. Numerous reports of snow and ice accumulation along the route confirm that fall is here, and this summit route should not be taken lightly. Repeated storms continue to hammer the mountain, creating tremendous potential for ice formation as temperatures cool. Slick patches of ice can often be difficult to identify on first glance, as they may be very thin and/or obscured by shadows. Snow and ice formation is certainly one of the leading causes of accidents along the route, so please plan accordingly and be prepared to turn around if conditions are unfavorable. 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. Afternoon storms are extremely common this time of year, and a return to treeline by noon is recommended to help mitigate exposure to lightning storms.

Remember your safety is in your own hands

 

The Ledges, 8/21/25

NPS

 

Looking Down the Trough, 8/21/25

NPS

 

The Narrows, 8/21/25

NPS

 

Looking up the Homestretch, 8/21/25

NPS Photo

 

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, so trekking poles and cautious footwork are advised in this terrain.

 

Chasm Crossing, 7/20/25

NPS Photo

 

Chasm Lake, 7/20/25

NPS Photo