Download the official NPS app before your next visit. You will not find water sources along the Keyhole Route. Best Time Of The Year To Climb Longs Peak Keyhole Route? My friend said it best, "It was like a putting a slip and slide on the side of a cliff face and trying to climb up it." National Park Services Longs Peak trail conditions report. The climb is 7.5 miles from trailhead to summit . Jenny Powelka, a personal trainer at Raintree Athletic Club, 2555 S. Shields St., Fort Collins, suggests using the StepMill machine (StairMaster) when you're at the gym. The prime fourteener climbing season starts in mid-June and runs through September. Also, your departure time is crucial. Trying to do these sections without ropes is inviting death. On Wildland trips, Train your legs to handle long, uphill hikes. Visitors are encouraged to use the report only as a guideline since conditions can change rapidly. How Long To Hike Longs Peak In Colorado? The Grom Life You will find affiliate links which means we may earn a commission if you purchase through these links. The Narrows: here you will cross a sheer vertical rock face on a narrow path. Unfortunately, knowing if you might be prone to altitude sickness is not something that can be predicted. 2. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Our Afternoon thunderstorms are almost guaranteed, and you must be off the submit before lighting strikes. Peak bagging is a total-body experience, as you'll need cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and strength in your legs and core to carry your body and gear to the top. Trail and Timberlines Summer 2011 edition posted that 53% of deaths were from unroped falls. Minutes after we got to the top, the summit clouded up, so take some pics when you can. Get a Fee Quote Tell us a little about what you need, and we'll respond quickly with our price and estimated turnaround time. I have been a volunteer ranger at the Longs Peak Trailhead for the past 6 summers and have climbed Longs Peak 23 times on 7 different routes. An REI class on preparing to climb a fourteener suggests training for two to four months prior to climbing. Longs Peak fills the horizon over Rocky Mountain National Park. What Is A Compass, And What Is It Used For? Water: it is recommended to bring 3 to 4 liters of water. Its best to attempt the summit once all the snow has melted off the trail. While you may have the urge to climb Longs Peak on a whim, we urge you to plan ahead. Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries. This is a problem with any hike above the tree line in Rocky National Park. The Boulder Field on the right and the Rockies on the left. And regardless of whether an attempt is successful or the mountain proves to be uncooperative for the day (which happens frequently! If youre backpacking to a backcountry site, check out the latest fees and more details at www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm. The more days you give yourself, the less likely altitude sickness will ruin your summit attempt. Depending upon conditions, you might encounter snow and ice any time of the year. This is not a walk in the park. This is much more than a hike. When we were climbing this section (mid-July), ice and snow were melting, turning the once frozen gravel into slippery, muddy, gravel. 2. Thank you for taking the time to read more about the Keyhole Route. Prepare for the climb by investing in the right gear. Appropriate gear is provided for all trips, as well as lunch (or meals on backpacking trips). Recommended only for experienced mountain hikers and climbers in top physical condition, this trail climbs 4,855 feet along steep ledges and through a narrows to the top of 14,259 foot Longs Peak, the highest point in the park. The Home Stretchis exactly that. While Longs Peak isnt Colorados highest, it is in Rocky Mountain National Park. Both of us came close to falling of the side of the mountain multiple times though. You will want to follow red and yellow bulls eyes. Those making the hike in early summer (usually until mid-July should be prepared for icy conditions. Camping Evaluation - Longs Peak Campgroundisdefinitelythe way to go if you are hiking Longs Peak. Remember to enjoy the experience along the way. The best way to get in shape? It requires technical skill and taking the time to do it carefully and thoughtfully. Longs Peak is the highest point in Boulder County at 14,259 feet. In general, the most snow-free and ice-free time of year to climb Longs Peak is mid-July through mid-September. Hiking Apr 2019 Longs Peak is the only ("14er") peak above 14,000 feet located with Rocky Mountain National Park. We recommend that you hike at altitude and work on your endurance to prepare for the thinner air and the long hike. But, this hike should not be taken lightly, this is not for the faint of heart. She also said you can ramp up the incline on the treadmill. The Keyhole Chasm Lake Longs Peak Longs Peak Photo by Erik Stensland Morning Light Photography. For example, in 2014, two people were killed by lightning in the park in the same number of days. We hope the information provided will assist you with planning for a safe and enjoyable experience on Longs Peak. Unfortunately for us, the Home Stretchwas extremely icy. More Photos - Below in the slideshow and more in the gallery here. This part is where it begins to get a little trickier. 3. Youll be more comfortable and more confident on the trail, and youll be prepared for the worst, which is always a possibility on a fourteener. Sun protection: bring along a hat, sunscreen and a long-sleeved shirt. Average time for the round trip is 12 hours. If you find yourself off route and wondering which way to go dont shortcut retrace your steps to your last known position. Every hiker's pack should contain essential supplies. Colorados Longs Peak is often presented as a hike. The best treatment for high altitude sickness is to go to a lower elevation as soon as safely possible. . The Keyhole Route to the summit of Longs Peak, one of the most popular routes in Colorado, is an extraordinary climbing experience. 16 Miles RT, Strenuous, Access Longs Peak Ranger Station. Is the Keyhole Route a hike or a climb? However, some tips on how to prepare for a longs peak hike may include: - Making a map of the area you will be hiking in - Studying the weather conditions in the area - Planning your route - Preparing your food and water - Preparing your gear - Preparing your self 80517. If you want an alternative that is less crowded, slightly shorter by mileage, longer by time and more difficult actual climbing then the Loft Route is for you. Climbing a fourteener during the summer is the ultimate Colorado adventure bucket-list item. Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. This allowed us to check that the skies were clear for 75 miles in every direction around us, giving us the confidence to go for it. Longs Peak is the pinnacle of mountains here in Rocky Mountain National Park quite literally. It is a climb that crosses enormous sheer vertical rock faces, often with falling rocks, requiring scrambling, where an unroped fall would likely be fatal. You will be challenged physically and mentally; but the pay off is extraordinary. To quote the National Park Service: The Keyhole Route [the main trail to climb Longs] is not a hike. This occurs at high elevation, when you are unable to get enough oxygen. Longs Peak summit has several routes to the top. With each machine, resist hanging on to the hand rails. Weather and conditions can change in a matter of minutes. The Peak The Keyhole Route to the summit of Longs Peak (14,259 feet), one of the most popular routes in Colorado, is an extraordinary climbing experience. Summiting too late could lead to thunderstorms, lightning, high winds, and poor visibility, among other hazards. Mid- and high-cut boots are best for the terrain and length of the Longs Peak trail. Go for 30 minutes at least once a week. (Make sure you drink plenty of water on these heat-of-the-day training sessions. Its location means it is also easier to gain access to than many. Learn all about what it takes to hike Longs Peak. Do not shortcut! "No handles on the fourteener," Powelka said. This is not actually a medical condition, as it sounds, but instead a desire to reach the top, no matter what the cost. After that it starts to get a little bit steeper. Take care to monitor yourself carefully, dont overdo it, drinks lots of water, and eat healthily. Start with moderate efforts of an hour each several times a week, working up to longer, more-intense sessions with one full-day hike on the weekend. Hiking Longs Peak takes time to do it safely: Wishing you a safe and successful summit. Prepare for the climb by investing in the right gear. Below are ways that you can train for your hike up Longs Peak: One of the biggest safety concerns when hiking Longs Peak is altitude sickness. Trust us, your feet will thank you. Pretend you are entering the school zone part of the trail, because you need to slow way down for the Notch and especially for the Home Stretch, which comes directly after the Notch. Seriously, it is one hell of a hike. Longs Peak will await your return. today, and dont forget to check out our next article in the series. Long's peak, while far from being mundane, had melded itself into my palate as a standard staple of climbing fare. Do your research, prepare for the altitude and this can be a very excited if also exhausting and exhilarating day. Also, you cannot go past this point until it gets light, as the trail past The Keyholeis where it gets really interesting. A long and but exciting hike well worth your time. Looking up the Troughsection of the Longs Peak Trail. Thanks for your interest in joining the Rams Horn Village Resort mailing list. Longs Peak has the highest death toll of any Colorado peak. Along the Keyhole route there are numerous areas where an un-roped fall can be fatal. In the past, some visitors have mistakenly assumed that a non-technical rating meant safe. Exposure and other risks along the route exist all the time. From Estes Park, take CO 7 south for 10 miles. Longs Peak & Altitude Sickness: Time Required To Alchemize? Some have died or sustained serious injury because they were travelling alone or chose to separate from the rest of their group. (6+ miles). Which Entrance Should I Take into Rocky Mountain National Park? The Grom Life is an independent publisher. Getting There. My friend and I on the top of Longs Peak right after summiting. If you can, the best way to train for the hike is simply to hike at altitude! How early? As your planned hike date approaches, you should monitor the weather and trail reports closely. Longs Peak's North Face is an historic route on Colorado's most iconic 14er. Plus, the majority of the hike is straight uphill, so you can imagine walking on a stair-stepper for about 7.5 miles (and then you have to turn around and head down!). Time Required To Climb Longs Peak Keyhole Route? Summiting Longs Peak is an incredible experience and most people who do so do it safely. Conditions are constantly changing and influenced by altitude, wind and sudden changes in weather. After that, it is a short 6.2 mile hike back through the Boulder Fieldto the Ranger Station and hopefully your campsite. It is suggested to take shorter hikes lower down in the park for a few days, each one going a little higher. Just don't look down! The Keyhole: there is a break in the rock, creating a keyhole, this is where the climbing route to the summit starts. The Ledges: a series of steep and narrow ledges travels along the cliffs edge. Acclimate your body and lungs: You can do this by going to shorter hikes at lower elevations on the days leading up to your planned summit. Not reaching the summit is not a failure; it is smart to turn back when you need to, and you will still receive incredible views along the way. How early? In short, summiting Longs Peak isnt for the faint of heart, and climbers should always be prepared to turn around at a moments notice. Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more! Build up to three hikes a week, starting at two- to four-hour efforts. Days/Nights to Camp/Spend Here As many as you can, but this depends on what you are doing in RMNP. Over the years, we've come to realize that many investment managers struggle to create fund factsheets that help potential . This app is packed with RVing specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 parks. And, for those that arent comfortable with climbing and scrambling across sections of rock, most of the hike can still be enjoyed in fact the trail is well-maintained and manageable for many hikers all the way up to the boulder field (which is under two miles from the summit). Xplore reporter Stephen Meyers covers the outdoors and recreation for The Coloradoan. Walking is OK. As you progress, continue running/walking two times a week, minimum. Close trails like Horsetooth Rock (elevation 7,255 feet), Arthur's Rock (6,780 feet) and Greyrock (7,613 feet) are good beginning training hikes. I know I should carry common sense, what else should I carry in my pack? If you dont have a solid pair of hiking boots, invest in a pair now youll want to break them in well before you attempt a summit. We got lucky once again in that it we had a clear sky for the entire time we hiked and surprisingly did not get rained on once. We planned to spend 4 nights and 3 days in RMNPafter reading this to acclimate to the altitude, as we knew 14,259 ft is incredibly high. It is the 14th highest mountain in Colorado at 14,259' and one of the most popular 14ers. Weather conditions on Longs can change in an instant. 6. Thus, it is best to train for hiking in the heat of the day in addition to standard advice: Heat slows you down, causes horrific cramps, and makes you susceptible to dehydration. Guided Rocky Mountain treks are all-inclusive which covers permits; local transportation (excluded on certain tours); meals; equipment; safety systems and professional hiking/wilderness guides; all of which allows visitors to maximize their time in Rocky Mountain and focus entirely on enjoying the Park. "A combination of climbing (hiking) on the weekends and aggressive exercise during the week will get you there," Arnette said. At the top of the road, turn left into the trailhead park lot. Also, you might have employment that makes this impossible. ). Be just as focused and alert, or even more so, on the way down! Order securely online for an accurate, reliable appraisal to fit your specific needs. To put in perspecitive how serious the weather issue is, we waited for about an hour before the wind died down enough for us to even look through the Keyhole. Check the weather forecast for Long's Peak Longs Peak from the Boulderfield, 6/8/23 NPS Longs Peak Conditions Report 6/11/23 The route has narrow ledges, loose rock, and steep cliffs. The Keyhole: there is a break in the rock, creating a "keyhole", this is where the climbing route to the summit starts. Physical preparation is essential for a successful summit. Its likely that youll end up carrying 20 or 30 pounds of gear or so including water, snacks, and extra clothing on your journey up Longs. The Grom Life participates in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products. The route has narrow ledges, loose rock, and steep cliffs., High-Altitude Hiking Tips for Rocky Mountain National Park, Now, youll have to take the length of the Keyhole Route into consideration if youre planning on summiting Longs Peak. Conditioning hikes: As Arnette suggests, do your hiking on the weekends. You will be challenged and pushed throughout the entire hike, and you will be very worn out at the end the day. Longs Peak Hiking Guide | REI Co-op Adventure Center Reserve in advance as all sites go fast. For the northern approach, drive 9.2 miles south from the intersection of US 36 and CO 7 to the turnoff for the Ranger Station. A view of the Boulder Field from the Keyhole, with the little hut on the right. Despite all of that, we did end up summiting and it was, I feel, the greatest accomplishment of the trip. Be sure to bring a poncho or rain jacket, a hiking coat, hats and gloves, sunglasses, a sweater, hiking pants, and clothes that are more breathable if you get too warm. @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-thegromlife_com-medrectangle-4-0-asloaded{max-width:250px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thegromlife_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',139,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thegromlife_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Also, weather conditions on Longs Peak are constantly changing. The route has narrow ledges, loose rock, and steep cliffs.. The early-morning wake-up call, the long trek to high elevations, breathing in the rarefied air and taking in the stunning views atop a 14,000-foot mountain all add up to a challenging adventure. After the climb . 4025 East Huntington, Suite 150 Backpackers can reserve established backcountry campsites with outhouses at the Boulderfield (highest campground in the national parks), Battle Mountain (group site), and Goblins Forest. Safety is your responsibility and our concern. Also, be sure to sign the guest book that is hidden near the elevation marker. We urge hikers to prepare for their trek on Longs Peak well in advance. Bear Lake (9,475 feet), Twin Sisters (9,090 feet) and Lawn Lake (8,540 feet) are good options. The elevation marker on the top of Longs Peak. The best time of the day to begin your hike to Longs Peak is at 3 am (yes, you read that right, 3 oclock in the morning). Help power the National Parks Travelers coverage of national parks and protected areas. Make time to acclimate to the altitude by hiking around RMNP and Estes Park. Hikers start on the Longs Peak trail early. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact. A successful hike up Longs Peak via the popular Keyhole Route requires a pre-sunrise start and 8.4 miles and almost 5,000 feet of climbing to a 14,259-foot summit. Longs Peak Hike - Longs Peak Keyhole Hike | Wildland Trekking You can check the National Park Services Longs Peak trail conditions report, which is updated fairly often. Find boots that fit your feet snuggly while providing support. Summit fever is dangerous. Stop, take a break, and turn back if you continue to suffer from symptoms of altitude sickness. It is a climb, a classic mountaineering route that should not be underestimated. Take the time to fairly assess your physical condition and the ever-changing conditions on the mountain before you tackle the most difficult part of the climb ahead. Though it might not carry as much prestige as the Grand Teton or El Capitan, Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park is a favorite target of hikers and climbers. Make sure to break in the boots you plan to wear on the summit attemptnew footwear can cause trip-killing blisters if you dont. Of course, thunderstorms have been known to appear early in the day as well! Your body will quickly adapt to the decrease in oxygen, which will mitigate the odds of having altitude sickness while climbing Longs Peak. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222. When hiking, practice power walking, where you vigorously use your arms and maintain a faster pace. Go to: www.backpacker.com/trips/colorado/rocky-mountain-national-park/colorado-14ers-longs-peak-via-keyhole-route/. But it is both. Attempting the summit in the afternoon greatly increases your risk the round-trip from the Longs Peak Trailhead averages 10 to 15 hours. So there is a little bit of community there. To strengthen your back to carry your pack full of water, food and rain gear, do low-back extension exercises on a fitness ball. And, as one of Colorados many fourteeners, Longs is well known for its difficulty. Not on Longs Peak. The trailhead is west of Colorado 7 and can be reached from the north or the south. This app is packed with RVing specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 parks.You'll also find stories about RVing in the parks, some tips if you've just recently turned into an RVer, and some planning suggestions. A bulls eye marks the trail for the Troughsection of the Longs Peak Trail. Every persons body is unique when alchemizing to high altitude. . You'll also find stories about RVing in the parks, some tips if you've just recently turned into an RVer, and some planning suggestions. Keyhole Route - Longs Peak - Alan Arnette It is also a really good place to take a break and eat something as there is a little hut up there where you can get out of the wind. In addition, pack at least four quarts of waterthe Boulderfield is the last chance to fill up, and its not guaranteed thereplus snacks, a warm hat and gloves, raingear, and a puffy jacket for the summit. Many people have fallen while shortcutting or continuing ahead after losing the route. Pack a few thousand calories of high-energy, healthy snack foods that are quick and easy to eat while taking short breaks (think trail mix, granola, jerky, protein bars, dried fruit, oatmeal cookies, etc.). This is not a "walk in the park." This is much more than a hike. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. However, if you are hiking and develop altitude sickness symptoms, do not ignore them. If you plan to dayhike Longs without camping overnight past the trailhead, no permit is necessary. Plus, once youve completed your trek you can enjoy a dip in the pool! Climbing Longs Peak takes most hikers between 10 and 15 hours in total, and you should aim to summit well before noon, when weather conditions usually begin to destabilize. Practice hiking in the heat of the day: Since you will be hiking for a majority of the day, it is important to train for the heat by hiking during the day, when the sun is blazing. Youll also need lots of water and plenty of snacks, since youll burn through calories and break a sweat while youre heading up the hill. You should bring, 2 cups of water per person per hour that you plan on spending on the trail (dont forget to calculate the trip. But this is also where the route becomes most rugged, along with narrow ledges and smooth, slippery bits. Longs Peak Classic Climb - Colorado Mountain School Like that favorite dish of Macaroni and Cheese or Chicken Soup that exudes comfort for one's being, after thirty successful summits, so too had this peak been relegated into my comfort zones. Finally, you should familiarize yourself with the route on Longs Peak. Do 12 to 15 per leg, bending forward slightly and reaching in front with your arms. Add hill repeats. Thus, anyone attempting Longs Peak without having proper experience and skills is making a foolish and potentially deadly decision. Longs PeakLong Hike : Trip Reports : SummitPost The only thing that can reduce a persons risk of getting altitude sickness is acclimatizing their body. their lives enriched, by the wonders of our amazing planet. Trail and Timberlines Summer 2011 edition, their dog is experiencing altitude sickness, live somewhere that produces hot weather hikes, How To Get To Rainbow Canyon in Death Valley, Yes, People Live In Death Valley, California, The Best Times To Visit Death Valley National Park, What To Wear To Hike Sand Dunes In Death Valley National Park, What Death Valley In California Is Known For. Is the weather changing or likely to change? Thousands try to summit it each year and about one third make it. Rocky Mountain . The flat-topped monarch is seen from almost anywhere in the park. Well its recommended that you begin the ascent before sunrise in fact, the National Park Service suggests that you begin the ascent by 3 AM to be safe. Start with shorter, manageable hikes and work to increase the length of your hikes until youre comfortable attempting a Longs Peak summit climb. There is simply no way to move faster past this point, and attempts to do so can be fatal. What are the symptoms of high altitude sickness? The views all along this section are spectacular as well. This is where we started to put in our blood, sweat and tears for this hike, as we didn't have gloves on. Add a 10-pound vest pack to your runs/walks to simulate the extra load of 12-20 pounds you'll be carrying with your backpack. Are you still providing technical and non-technical ratings concerning the Keyhole Route? You will not find paid product promotions or sponsored content on this site. The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mondays - Fridays and 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays in winter. Longs Peak (Rocky Mountain National Park) - Tripadvisor Travelling with others provides an added margin of safety with decision making, shared observations of changing conditions, and the ability to assist or go for help in the event of an accident. Signs of altitude sickness include: But if the symptoms are not improving, then youll have to head back. Thus, you need to try to put yourself in hot conditions and exercise when possible, even if indoors. Dont hesitate to turn back for any reason your life may depend on it. Longs Peak is one of Colorado's most coveted "14ers," mountain peaks that are over 14,000. Our second day was an acclimationday, literally. Youll be more comfortable and more confident on the trail, and youll be prepared for the worst, which is always a possibility on a fourteener. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Is the Keyhole Route a hike or a climb? The first part is simple enough: beautiful trail through the pine forest rising above the tree line at 10,500'. It draws upon proper climbing skills to reach the summit. Get a free Colorado national park trip planner for inspiring itineraries and essential information. A slip, trip or fall could be fatal. You are embarking on a very long day, and most of it will be above the treeline with no shade. Broken-in boots: you want to make sure that your hiking boots have hit the trail a couple of times before you begin this strenuous hike. Our goal is for people to be inspired, and It is more than just a hike; it is a rock scramble that will have you using both hands and both feet, and will test your limits as you cross sheer vertical faces, with narrow ledges, loose rocks and steep cliffs. If youre up for the challenge or simply want to navigate the hikable section of the mountain, then check out the rest of our preparation tips. Other beneficial exercises include: Squats, step-ups, dumbbell presses, lat pulldowns, calf raises, abdominal crunches and assisted dips and chin-ups. If youre not used to long hikes or the altitude in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), then its wise to train and acclimatize before you begin hiking. Permits required for overnight parking. 1. The few days of being in the park will help your body acclimate to the high altitude. Flexibility is important while traversing rocks and narrow sections on the trail. Be wary that the trail may still be wet (which makes the final stages of the climb more difficult and hazardous). Invest in a pack that fits all that gear and fits your body size and shape well. The best way to prevent these symptoms is by acclimating your body and lungs, by going on short hikes at lower elevation, working your way up to Longs Peak. Starting the route after this time risks being too high when the notorious thunderstorms roll in. Longs Peak-Keyhole Route Frequently Asked Questions. Different angles show the great mountain's unique profiles. The Boy Scouts motto is a declarative, simple statement: Be prepared. One common reason people are forced to turn back is altitude sickness. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most epic and amazinghiking vacationsin the world. All you have to do now is go down and going down is easier right? Ultra-runners routinely make the 15-mile roundtrip in about six hours, and an acclimatized hiker who doesnt dawdle can eke out 12 hours. Layers of clothing (jackets & pants), including insulating, windproof clothing like synthetic or wool, not cotton. Those planning a 1 day hike should consider starting extremely early, so they will be well off the peak before the summer afternoon thunderstorms arrive. Improve this listing All photos (86) Its location means it is also easier to gain access to than many. Longs Peak FAQ - Alan Arnette Reduce your risk of hypothermia and lightning by packing warm and waterproof clothes, by leaving early in the morning, and by turning around if dark clouds form or you see lightning in the distance. Do I really need to start at the trailhead before sunrise? We recommend that all travelers carry: 3 to 4 liters of water; . In 2002, a research survey showed over 9,500 people reached the summit of Longs Peak; thousands more turned around at the Boulder Field. 2023 www.coloradoan.com. It took us another 3 hours to wind our way up to the first "checkpoint" of sorts on the way to the top of Longs Peak, The Keyhole. I hope this guide to Longs Peakhelps you understand the risks and the incredible hike that summiting Longs Peakcan provide.