This is a wonderful, but serious climb! There are many different ways to climb Longs. The route that most people take is called the Keyhole. Thousands of people take this route each year and lots will summit but there are also fatalities every year. Because of the exposure, it is recommended to begin climbing longs from the trail head in the early morning(3am + or -). Most of the hike is exposed to the elements so keep a close eye on the weather and drink and eat adequately. It’s 12,760′ and 6 miles from the trailhead there is camping at the Boulderfield. The boulderfield offers climbers an opportunity to climb longs in 2 days. Staying at boulderfield offers a few of its own challenges. I recommend bringing plenty of thin rope to tie down all possible corners of your tent in the case that its windy. Because there is not any dirt to steak down your tent, use the rope to tie to smaller rocks in the area. I would also recommend bringing ear plugs in the event of high winds during the night. If you would like to stay the night at the boulderfield or any of the other backcountry sites in Rocky Mountain National Park you will need a permit. Drop by or mail in your reservation to the backcountry office. I recommend climbing longs… just make sure your ready for it. The mountain isn’t going anywhere.
Christine A.
Classificação do local: 5 Austin, TX
Take water, rain gear, warm clothing and food on this very popular and strenuous hike. Long’s Peak is the highest peak in RMNP and the experience is worth the trip if you are in good condition. We left at 3:00 a.m. and had to sign in at the ranger station before we started the climb.(I think this is so they can identify the body if you don’t make it back.) Initially the terrain was a thick forest but within several hours we were up where the vegetation was low and trees curled and weathered by the wind. Treeline was a little after sunrise. It was wonderful to see some wildlife on the way up and watch a mother marmot carry her babies in her mouth to relocate them. I made it to the keyhole but the drop off on the other side made me too queasy to finish. The mister and his brother in law reached the summit and took wonderful photos from all directions. On the way back, we opened our packs and found that the physical movement and exertion on the hike had caused our sandwiches to get squished and roll into balls. Mmmm, best tuna I’ve ever had.
Ravena F.
Classificação do local: 5 Daly City, CA
Highest peak in the park, and what a spectacular view for hundreds of miles! You’d better be in shape, though, as, aside from the serious altitude gain, getting to the summit is quite the obstacle course(with enticing names like: the keyhole, the scrambled egg route, the narrows, etc). It can be cold and windy no matter what time of year you go, so be smart in your packing, and try to summit midday. This is a hiking goal that really pays off for it’s incredible views — well worth the effort!
