Is Longs Peak An easy hike?

Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, just under 10 miles southwest of Estes Park, Longs Peak is the highest point in Boulder County at 14,259 feet. This is a strenuous hike with difficult terrain that should not be underestimated. It’s close to one mile from the Keyhole to the summit.

How long of a hike is Longs Peak?

10 to 15 hours
Time for the 15 mile round- trip averages 10 to 15 hours. Much of this route is above tree-line so give yourself plenty of time to be back below tree-line before afternoon thunderstorms and lightning develop.

Do you need crampons for Longs Peak?

In the winter, every route to the summit requires crampons and an ice axe (the base definition of “technical”). Many years at least one or two people lose their life on this climb mostly due to lightning or falls above the Keyhole.

Do you need a helmet for Longs Peak?

Re: Longs Peak (did you wear a helmet?) With all the noobs kicking off rocks and dropping nalgenes down the trough, unless you’re really quick you should probably wear a helmet.

Can you drive to the top of Longs Peak?

As Colorado’s oldest Scenic Byway, the Peak to Peak Scenic Highway is a beautiful stretch of road that guides you through some of the best mountain landscapes Colorado has to offer. Peaking at the delightful Lilly Lake, travelers are met with unforgettable views of Mount Meeker, Longs Peak, and Twin Sisters Peak.

Is Longs Peak difficult?

Compared to climbing other mountains around Colorado, Longs Peak is tricky, but it’s far from impossible. It actually ranks around 15 when it comes to Colorado’s most difficult mountains above 14,000 feet.

Can you hike Longs Peak alone?

The route has narrow ledges, loose rock, and steep cliffs.” In short, summiting Longs Peak isn’t for the faint of heart, and climbers should always be prepared to turn around at a moment’s notice. Never climb alone.

Can you sleep at Longs Peak Trailhead?

No, it is not allowed.

How many miles does it take to hike Longs Peak?

And many hikers end up biting off more than they can chew. Done as a single day outing, the standard Keyhole route on Longs entails 15+ miles of hiking, 5,000 ft. of elevation gain, exposed scrambling with fall-risk potential, and difficult terrain above treeline, where storms roar in with regularity.

What to see at the top of Longs Peak?

The large flat summit of Longs has unobstructed 360-degree views of the eastern plains, Indian Peaks Wilderness to the south, and the Rocky Mountain National Park to the west. To return, retrace your route back to Longs Peak Trailhead. Note: If you start to feel nauseous, it’s probably a resort of high altitude.

When to start keyhole hike at Longs Peak?

A general rule is that you don’t want to be starting the Keyhole portion of the hike after 6 AM—it’s 5.5 miles from the parking lot on a long trail and a big boulder field before arriving at this locale.

How tall is Longs Peak in the Rockies?

I included Longs Peak in my hiking guide Best Summit Hikes in Colorado because it truly is one of the best adventures in the Rockies. This 14,259 ft. behemoth is one of the most coveted peaks in Colorado. Many casual hikers attempt Longs despite the fact it is one of the toughest 14ers.