Longs Peak Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park

Longs Peak Trailhead

The square-topped, 14,259-foot Longs Peak is one of Rocky Mountain National Park's most distinctive landmarks.

Plan Around Longs Peak Trailhead

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Longs Peak Trailhead Details

The square-topped, 14,259-foot Longs Peak is one of Rocky Mountain National Park's most distinctive landmarks and was once viewed as sacred by the Ute tribe. The mountain is named for Major Stephen H. Long, who led an expedition on Colorado's eastern plains in 1820. A trail travels up the first 6.5 miles of trail, and past that, the Keyhole Route to the summit of Longs Peak is a climb that crosses gigantic sheer, vertical rock faces. Scrambling along narrow ledges, loose rocks and steep cliffs requires attention to staying on the marked route, proper footwear and layers of clothing, hydrating, and eating properly. An early start is recommended, no later than 3 a.m., for this trip than can average 10-15 hours. Be watchful for changing weather and lightning. If feeling sick from the altitude, the only treatment is to descend to a lower elevation. The Longs Peak Trailhead has limited parking and can be an issue for hikers and climbers.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

Region

East Side

Nearby Parks Around Longs Peak Trailhead

Compare nearby parks around Longs Peak Trailhead when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

6.5 mi away

Rocky Mountain

National Park · CO

164.3 mi away

Black Canyon

National Park · CO

175.5 mi away

Great Sand Dunes

National Park · CO

245.1 mi away

Arches

National Park · UT

254.4 mi away

Mesa Verde

National Park · CO

259.9 mi away

Canyonlands

National Park · UT

Nearby Points of Interest Around Longs Peak Trailhead

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Longs Peak Trailhead while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Longs Peak Trailhead

The square-topped, 14,255-foot Longs Peak is one of Rocky Mountain National Park's most distinctive landmarks.

0.0 mi away

Longs Peak

The unforgettable climb up to the summit is one of the most challenging and rewarding ascents.

0.1 mi away

Estes Cone

This short, steep climb is reputed to yield some of the best panoramas in the park.

0.2 mi away

Longs Peak Campground

Open year-round, Long's Peak Campground has 26 campsites for tents only.

0.2 mi away

Longs Peak Campground

Open year-round, Long's Peak Campground has 26 campsites for tents only.