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, taken May 9, 2025

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
5/14/2025

Winter Weather Advisory

Spring is finally arriving in the high country of RMNP, but winter conditions persist on Longs Peak. A recent storm deposited two feet or more of new snow at the upper elevations, dramatically increasing avalanche hazard. All major routes on Longs Peak are fully snow and ice covered, and 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.

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

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.

 

Booting up the North Face, taken May 9, 2025

NPS

 

The Trough and ledges, taken May 11, 2025.

NPS

 

The Trough, taken May 11, 2025

NPS

 

The Homestretch, taken May 9, 2025

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 Cirque, taken May 9, 2025

NPS