longs peak guided hike
There are many routes to get to the Longs Peak summit, but the Keyhole Route is the most popular. Views & Wildlife Extended Adventure Top-shelf Backpack & Trekking Poles Amazing Natural & Cultural History Tasty Trail Snacks & Picnic Lunch Description Anticipate a 1:30am - 2am pick up from your hotel in Estes Park. Synthetic or wool clothing is mandatory. The high elevation may affect your condition and judgment. California: Yosemite, Death Valley & More, Montana / Wyoming: Yellowstone, Tetons & More, Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Tours, Rocky Mountain National Park backpacking trip, Hiking uphill or downhill with a 35-45 lb backpack for 6-8 hours, Maintaining balance and footing on extremely rugged terrain, Hiking through sections of extreme heights exposure, Hiking Mileage: 7 miles (includes 5 mile day hike), Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack, High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (professionally laundered after every use) or, All meals are included from breakfast the first day through lunch on the last day, Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. Alpine Climbing Pack Internal frame only. Receive a PDF info packet via email which includes: All Content & Photos Copyrighted by WTC 2023. Age restrictions on this trip are as follows: Being a high mountain environment, the Rocky Mountains are prone to sudden temperature and weather shifts. Theres also no guarantee of reaching the summit if your guide feels the conditions are creating an unacceptable level of risk he or she will turn the group around. However, this area is full of loose rocks. (Photo by, feel nauseous, its probably a resort of high altitude, www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/longs_peak_faq.htm, Rocky Mountain National Park Essentials: 14 Basic Things You Need to Know, 14 Favorite Waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park, Download the Official Rocky Mountain National Park Map PDF. There are inherent objective hazards such as altitude illness, rock fall, items or rocks dropped by other hikers, thunderstorms, heavy windsetc. Spectacular climbing and hiking high at altitude make climbing this mountain a challenging endeavor, but one you will always remember! Wildland Trekking, a home-grown USA adventure travel company started in 2005, has become one of the worlds leading trekking companies. The hike then enters the boulder field, a large relatively flat field of boulders where a few backcountry campsites reside. Along with packing the appropriate gear, you must also be physically prepared for the hike up Longs Peak. I was very nervous for both of us; not just for the summit climb but for hiking with heavy packs gaining/losing significant elevation and the altitude considerations. I couldn't have asked for a better guide than Tamara. Recommended hiking and climbing experience level: intermediate to advanced, An ascent of Longs Peak normally takes approximately 15 hours, A professionally trained and/or certified AMGA guide, All necessary technical equipment (if needed) including harnesses, helmets, climbing shoes, belay devices, ropes, and protection, Professional guiding and instruction throughout the entire day, Transportation. See, A commitment to make the tour as exciting, challenging, informative, and full as youd like, and as is possible in a day, Transportation to the trailhead and back (originating/ending in Estes Park), Use of a top of the line, technical day pack, Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-20% of trip cost), 10 and older to join private tours, with final approval on a case by case basis. - Steve Cundy and Scott Cundy, Co-founders and Managers. Fall in the high country offers the most stable weather but can be colder and afford less daylight with temperatures in the 30s to 60s. JHMG also carries a selection of rock shoes for rent. Following these markers will help you scale out and back from the summit in the safest route possible. If its your first trip into Rocky Mountain National Park, you should first know that there are two entrances one via Estes Park on the eastern side and one via Grand Lake on the western side. The face can be climbed by experienced climbers. But the final mile of the ascent of the Keyhole route is a strenuous Class 3 scramble, and a guide is highly recommended to help manage the risks and insure a rewarding experience. Longs Peak Classic Climb - Colorado Mountain School The reward? After celebration and photos we will head back the way we ascended. overlooks the back side of Longs, and is your passage to the long trek up the summit. I reserved this trip for myself and my 70 year-old father as a bucket list item for him. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult. On trips in June, snow is a slight possibility, and the rest of the summer rain is always a possibility on your trip. If you want to summit this burly peak, youll need information on the route, how to hike in high altitude, the gear youll need, and the logistics youll need to plan in advance. Estes Park is located 65 miles northwest of Denver, and about 76 miles from Denver International Airport. Please, coordinate with our office for gear checks. Bear Lake This is the shortest, most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Technical gear is not necessary to climb this route during the summer, but gloves (and a helmet as an extra precaution) is recommended. This tour is booked on a custom basis for private groups so does not have set dates (requested dates are almost always available). Here are five of our favorite destinations along the Longs Peak routes that youll love. However, you, are welcome to bring your own equipment. Longs Peak sits at an elevation of 14,259 feet above sea level and is a challenging mountain to climb under the best conditions. These sections are known as The Boulder Field, The Keyhole, The Ledges, The Trough, The Narrows, The Homestretch and The Summit. Even with primo conditions, the route up Longs is objectively challenging: In roughly 7.3 miles, you gain 5,000 feet of elevationmaking it less like a stroll and more like a 10-hour, continuous stair climb. Thanks for sharing a part of your life with me. All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. It was a challenge mentally and physically for us but so worth it. A nearby hike with views of Longs Peak is the Chasm Lake Trail. 4 minutes Learn about the unique challenges of climbing Longs Peak via the Keyhole Route. Couldn't imagine doing Long's Peak any other way. Guides Choice Trips; Private Hiking Tours; National Park Hiking Tours; Unforgettable Experiences. Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Keyhole Route. Longs Peak Hike: What to Expect When Climbing Colorado's "Deadliest Start Summer with 50% Off Outside+, Ends June 1. Longs Peak Hike - Longs Peak Keyhole Hike | Wildland Trekking Hiking Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park | 57hours Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. Learn more about hiking in Rocky Bear Lake Trail Guide - Summer (PDF 3.8 MB) Bear Lake Trail Guide - Winter (PDF 3.9 MB) Fall River Trail Guide (PDF 3.3 MB) Kawuneeche Valley Trail Guide (PDF 1.4 MB) Longs Peak Trail Guide (PDF 0.2 MB) Wild Basin Trail Guide - Summer (PDF 0.7 MB) Wild Basin Trail Guide - Winter (PDF 3.1 MB) Campground Maps The hike can be accomplished in one long day stretching as long as 15 hours or completed as part of a multi-day backpacking trip. Longs Peak - Keyhole Route Route Description | 14ers.com It gave general hiking information, such as clothing, safety issues about lightening and weather, then gave more information about those things specific to the trail. If you want to summit this burly peak, you'll need information on the route, how to hike in high altitude, the gear you'll need, and the logistics you'll need to plan in advance. Longs Peak The Longs Peak Webcam is located in the beautiful Tahosa Valley along Hwy 7. Download the Longs Peak-Keyhole Route brochure (8 1/2 x 14-PDF 589kb) and Keyhole Route: Frequently Asked Questions (8 1/2 x 11-PDF 162kb). To make sure you and your hiking companions have the best experience possible without creating unnecessary risks, we encourage all hikers to learn about Longs Peak conditions and plan their trip accordingly. As you ascend the trough, dont forget to turn around for some of the best views in the Park of Glacier Gorge to the North. Following the red and yellow bulls-eyes will help you stay on track. - Single Day Trips. Corey, was an extremely informative guide. Your safety is our top priority. The National Park has put together a more in-depth description of the Keyhole Route that can be found here, as well as a video with even more visuals and information. We provide all group gear which includes the following: When you register for this tour youll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip (click here to see it now.) At 14,259 feet above sea level and over 7 miles from the trailhead, this summit will make you earn your views. Our CO Take the trip of your life and book a Longs Peak guided hike with one of our professional Rocky Mountain National Park guides! This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Not unlike many other mountain hikes, the best months for hiking Longs Peak are July, August and September. Once through the Keyhole you will ascend to the summit of Longs Peak. Longs Peak is hard to climb for multiple reasons. In the 1900s, mountaineers rode horses to The Boulderfield and climbed The North Face with the help from a large steel cable attached to the rock by eye-bolts. Longs Peak Elevation: 14,255' Trailhead Elevation: 9,405 Total Elevation Gain: 4,805' Rating: Extremely Strenuous Trailhead: Longs Peak Trailhead Trail Distance: 7.5 miles (one-way) Best time to start the hike: 3:00 AM or earlier Alt Trailhead: Bear Lake (adds 3 miles . To be fully prepared, please follow the recommended clothing list closely (this list comes as part of your trip packet when you register). Highly recommend! After setting up camp, we will acclimatize by day hiking to a stunning alpine lake, at an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet, that offers breathtaking views of Longs Peak above us. Our goal is for people to be inspired, and Colorado 14ers: Longs Peak Loft Route with Mt Meeker - Hike Guide She definitely gets a 10+ and would highly recommend her for a tour. When planning an assent, try to organize it so you can hike during the tail end of your trip. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Jackson Hole Mountain Guides is an authorized concession of the National Park Service and a nondiscriminatory permittee of multiple US Forest Service districts. Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. From here you will continue on to the Boulder Field and the Keyhole. guests discover new landscapes, ecosystems, knowledge and ways to Where The Ledges were narrow, the gulley of The Trough is broad. all-inclusive trip styles, award-winning guides, exceptional food, and View New Trips. Buy the Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Map Pack including Longs Peak at REI.com. 3. The most popular and only non-technical route is the Keyhole, which will be described here. Guiding Longs Peak Hiking Trip in Colorado - KMA - Kirk's Mountain " Mike Langenkamp OpenMapTiles OSM 14.0 Miles Out and Back 14,196' High 9,404' Low 5,241' Up 5,231' Down 14% Avg Grade (8) 61% Look no further than Kirks Mountain Adventures for the best Rocky Mountain National Park tours. Our meeting locations vary depending on the class or climb. Safety was the number one consideration. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. The Crown Jewel of Rocky Mountain NP, Longs Peak is one of the most coveted summits in the West. This route typically takes travelers between 10 to 15 hours to complete, depending on how quickly you wish to tackle the 15-mile trail. No matter how long your adventure lasts, the memories will last a lifetime. We encourage ALL prospective climbers to read our Preparation advice. The north and east faces of Longs come into view, as well as Storm Peak (13,326'). With a 5,000 foot elevation gain you will ascend the high alpine tundra, scramble across the boulder field, through the picturesque keyhole, skirt the ledges and narrows above sheer drop-offs, and finally scramble up the Homestretch slabs to emerge on the broad summit. Terms of Privacy. That's only $1 per issue! 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park - Earth Trekkers This 15-mile hike will take more than half of a day to conquer, and difficult terrain plus increases in altitude can wear you down. *Guide gratuity is not included trip price. This timing usually allows you to gain the summit and descend from the upper mountain before any weather develops. Disregard for the mountain environment any time of year has meant danger, injury and even death. Air B&B options abound as well, ranging from unique cabins to luxury vacation homes. You should also practice running up and down stairs to increase your muscular and lung strength. At 14,259 feet it is one of the most prominent peaks in Colorado. From this location, nestled in the tree line and offering protection from afternoon storms, hikers can begin at the Longs Peak Trailhead and access both Chasm Lake and Longs Peak summit. Large enough to fit all your personal gear plus ten pounds of food and water. Backpacks, rock, shoes, and boots can all be rented & purchased in our, Plan Your Trip to Grand Teton National Park, Sticky Rubber Approach Shoes: required for all mid-summer climbs. 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. All-inclusive Rocky Mountain Backpacking Adventures. Maximize your time at America's national parks by embarking on a day hike tour with one of our expert hiking guides! From there, they wander up talus to the crux of the route a thirty-meter 5.4 slab often wet or icy. Full-day hikes include snacks, lunch and gear such as backpacks and trekking poles; half-day hikes include snacks and gear. The route has narrow ledges, loose rock, and steep cliffs. Take a virtual trip up the Keyhole Route via the Climbing Longs Peak podcast. Every hikers pack should contain essential supplies. Even if youre on a Longs Peak guided hike, you should become as familiar as possible with these seven sections so that youre as prepared as possible. Fax 307.733.4990. The 1,000 foot world-famous Diamond face is home to difficult Colorado classics such as the "Casual Route", while easier climbing and hiking routes take a more scenic approach to the mountain. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Some travelers can be injured by the loss of traction and falling rocks, so its wise to take your time climbing this section. Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. guests discover new landscapes, ecosystems, knowledge and ways to Get a free Colorado national park trip planner for inspiring itineraries and essential information. From eastern Colorado, on I-70, follow I-70 W, to I-270 W, to US-36 W through Boulder and Lyons. climbing gear, harnesses, helmets, locking carabiners &, belay/rappel devices, crampons, and ice axes. Todays hike was long, but the view well worth it. Proper training is required for this hike, or climb. This includes hiking trails of a similar elevation gain, but also hiking in high altitude. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. Winter conditions of Longs Peak are considered technical mountaineering ascents even by the Keyhole Route. 4025 East Huntington, Suite 150 Stretching 11 miles, this moderate out and back route climbs just over 3,000 feet in elevation and acts as a great waiting point for those who dont wish to follow their partners up to the Longs Peak summit. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. We then face the final homestretch until we reach the summit at 14,259 feet. 6-8 Hours. Dawning our packs one last time, we will head towards the Glacier Gorge area. Estes Park Rock Climbing, 1230 Big Thompson Avenue, Estes Park, CO, 80517. Guided Longs Peak Trips Estes Park Rock Climbing Guided Longs Peak Trips This is one of the most sought after 14er's in Colorado and the only 14er in Rocky Mountain National Park. At Chasm Lake Trail Junction, grab a quick snack and soak in views of Longs 18-acre granite face known as the Diamond. Towering above the clouds at 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the tallest summit in Rocky Mountain National Park. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. View the current Longs Peak Conditions Report. The most popular route is The Keyhole, an exposed but non-technical passage that spirals around the mountain. This majestic mountain is visible throughout the Colorado Front Range and draws numerous hikers each year. Start at the same time others grab a nightcap as it Typically takes between 10 and 15 hours to complete this hike. Longs Peak - Keyhole Route - Rocky Mountain National Park (U.S Dominating the skyline, and topping out at 14,259 feet, Longs is the ultimate adventure for enthusiastic hikers. As the summit view emerges, so does the most exposed section of the hike. Wherever you are in your climbing journey, The Mountain Guides [], THE WOMENS NETWORK Climbing Series heads to Moab. Zion, our guide, while always being super kind and considerate, was a wealth of information regarding the Rocky's, the mountains, back country life and the summit experience. The first man on record to scale this mountain, however, was John Wesley Powell. For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). What can I say? After an unsuccessful try on my previous attempt up Longs, I was back and ready for revenge. A Longs Peak Colorado hike is one of the best in the Rocky Mountain National Park. All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. Colorado 14ers: Longs Peak via Keyhole Route Hike Trail Guide - YouTube A steep, but walkable, slope leads the way to the top. We suggest that you have spent a minimum of 48 hours within Estes Park or environs before the day of our hike. Try to begin your descent in the early afternoon to avoid thunderstorms and darkness that can complicate your descend. Your guide will customize the food for your hike, but a typical lunch consists of gourmet sandwiches or wraps, fruit, veggies, chips, drinks and a dessert. The East Longs Peak Trail does have a ranger station with a small campground of 26 sites. Here forward the terrain turns to boulders and cliff edges. Year-round guided trips with friendly, knowledgeable guides Get Directions . Location: Colorado Hikes & Tours. From here you will have the option of resting at camp, or taking part in day hike to the nearby summit of Storm Peak at 13,326 feet. from $115. Youll find out when you reach the top and receive an unspoiled view of 100 miles in every direction. All hikers should spend a few days acclimating to the altitude by hiking at lower elevations during the warmest parts of the day. Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. Longs stands 14,256 feet above sea level. The reward? View the current Longs Peak Conditions Report. On a guided Longs Peak hike, climb to a towering 14,259 feet at the summit and awe in the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. Guided Longs Peak Trips Estes Park Rock Climbing On a backpacking trip you'll camp in the backcountry and carry everything you need for the trip in a top-of-the-line, fitted backpack we provide. Listed on the left side of these pages are links that you may find useful, including printable forms and policies concerning a trip with TMG. Phone 800.239.7642 307.733.4979 The mountain's sheer cliff face, known as The Diamond, is a world-famous rock climbing destination. The Crown Jewel of Rocky Mountain NP, Longs Peak is one of the most coveted summits in the West. Normalterms and conditionsapply to trips with itinerary changes.