Trip Report
Mountaineering – RMNP - Longs Peak TH - The Keyhole
I was joined by a hearty band of mountaineers on this difficult mountaineering adventure. We turned around near Granite Pass - before the North Longs Peak trail junction - due to gale force winds.
- Sat, Oct 5, 2024
- Mountaineering – RMNP - Longs Peak TH - The Keyhole
- RMNP - Longs Peak TH
- Hiking & Mountaineering
- Turned Around
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- Road suitable for all vehicles
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The East Longs Peak trail is in excellent condition. The elevation gain over each linear mile was effectively planned through the placement of switchbacks, log berms, and other natural features incorporated into the trail to make for smooth, steady progress.
The group began arriving at the Longs Peak trailhead ~4:15am for a 5:00am start up the East Longs Peak Trail. Parking was available in the main lot during the post-Labor Day time period. Temperatures were pleasantly cool, the sky was alight with stars, the privys were clean and well maintained.
We began our ascent at 5:00am under clear skies, light breezes, and in good spirits. Our headlamps illuminated the trail as we quickly ascended to treeline ~6:15am. We exercised care and concern for each other by adopting breaks at infrequent intervals.
The winds began to become noticeable after an extended break at the Chasm Lake trail junction with the E. Longs Peak trail. The winds became stronger and stronger as we approached Granite Pass/N. Longs Peak Trail junction. We were bowed over by the 60+ mph winds before even having a chance to view the Boulderfield. We discussed the situation in the leeward side of a rock formation. Other descending hikers described even windier conditions at the Boulderfield and the Keyhole.
We safely returned to the Chasm Lake trail junction to calmer breezy conditions. We exercised the option of hiking 0.8-miles to Chasm Lake. The views of Peacock Pool and Chasm Lake made for an excellent alternative destination for our extended lunchbreak.
Our post-lunch period was marked by a warm, congenial time as we descended to the trailhead. I am grateful to all the trip participants for their constant and consistent care shown to me and each other.
I recommend each trip participant receive the Difficult Trip Hiking Skills.