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

 

East Face of Longs Peak from Chasm Junction, 6/24/25

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
7/1/2025

July has arrived, rapid snowmelt has continued, and Longs Peak is approaching full summer conditions across the mountain. The trail is now snow-free all the way to the Boulderfield, and the upper mountain also has lost most of its snow cover. However, several summit routes still have sections of mandatory snow travel, requiring the proper equipment and technique. These routes also have lots of running water currently, making the rock sections quite slippery. We are also fully into monsoon season, and afternoon thunderstorms will remain a real threat for the remainder of the summer season. Returning to treeline by noon is recommended to help mitigate exposure to lightning storms.

Traction such as Microspikes, Yaktrax, or crampons and an ice axe are still highly recommended if navigating a route that requires snow travel. 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 Route is almost, though not quite, in full summer conditions. The Ledges are entirely snow-free, but mandatory snow travel exists in the Trough still, and this snow can be firm in the morning, requiring traction and proper snow travel technique. The Narrows and Homestretch both contain small snow patches, but these can be navigated around on dry rock with care. In addition, melting snow has produced running water in these sections, which can lead to slick rock, or even ice formation on cold mornings. Please continue to exercise cautious and conservative decision making.

Remember your safety is in your own hands

 

The Ledges, 6/28/25

NPS

 

Looking down the Trough, 6/28/25

NPS

 

The Narrows - June 21, 2025

NPS

 

Looking up the Homestretch, 6/28/25

NPS Photo

 

Chasm Crossing

The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow crosses a steep slope known as Chasm Crossing. A small snow patch continues to linger in this location 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. Traction devices, such as microspikes or crampons, and trekking poles, may be necessary to cross safely.

 

Chasm Crossing, 6/29/25

NPS Photo

 

Chasm Lake, 6/25/25

NPS Photo