Summer conditions have finally taken hold on Longs Peak. The trails are entirely snow free to both Chasm Lake and the Boulderfield and the major summer summit routes can be navigated with no snow travel, including the Keyhole.
Across the upper mountain small ice and snow patches remain in places, and running water exists in several locations as well, creating slippery rock, and still warranting caution and careful travel.
Monsoon season is fully upon us, and afternoon thunderstorms will remain a real threat for the remainder of the summer season. Returning to treeline by noon is prudent to help mitigate exposure to lightning storms.
Remember, your safey is in your hands.
Warm clothes, waterproof layers, extra food and water, a headlamp, personal first aid kit, and a cell phone are all strongly recommended. 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.
The Keyhole Route is not a hike. This is a challenging climb that crosses vertical rock faces and requires scrambling. Advanced planning and preparation are critical.
Going to Chasm Lake? The trail between Chasm Junction and Chasm Meadow crosses a steep slope known as Chasm Crossing. This slope is finally free of all meaningful snow for the summer and can be traveled entirely on dry trail. A small snowpatch continues to linger, but has receded enough to expose the trail through this section.
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Check out our online trail guides:
- Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com
- Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com
- Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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