Longs Peak

Planning to climb Longs Peak?

Learn more about climbing the Longs Peak Keyhole Route, including answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

See the weather forecast for Longs Peak.

Watch a video on the Keyhole Route HERE

 

The Boulderfield, 6/1/2026

NPS

Longs Peak Conditions Report
6/2/2026

June has arrived, and warmer weather is just around the corner. However, winter conditions continue to persist on Longs Peak. All major routes on Longs Peak are snow and ice covered, and any venture beyond the trailhead will require proper winter equipment, route-finding skills, and knowledge of winter travel. Travelers should expect to encounter snow and ice, extremely cold temperatures, avalanche hazards, and high winds. The trail is beginning to melt out below treeline, but the upper mountain remains buried under several inches to several feet of snow.

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

Despite the arrival of spring in the lowlands, the Keyhole remains in full winter conditions. Expect hazardous travel, with extremely cold temperatures, drifting snow, and widespread ice formation. Avalanche hazards will persist along the Keyhole Route for the remainder of the 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. As spring progresses and the sun rises higher in the sky, warming temperatures in the afternoon can cause widespread instability in the snowpack. Please continue to exercise cautious and conservative decision making.

Remember your safety is in your own hands

 

The Ledges, 6/1/2026

NPS

 

Looking Up the Trough, Early June 2025

NPS

 

The Narrows, Early June 2025

NPS

 

The Homestretch, Early June 2025

NPS

 

Chasm Crossing

The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow crosses a steep slope known as Chasm Crossing. This slope is currently snow covered, 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. Avalanche hazards on this slope will persist throughout the spring, and crampons and an ice axe may be necessary to cross safely.

In addition, the rock slabs leading up to Chasm Lake are also currently snow covered, and this snow and ice coverage can persist through the spring. Please exercise caution on this terrain and consider trekking poles and/or traction devices for safe travel.

 

Chasm Crossing, 5/28/2026

NPS