Long’s Peak Route Options

Route options, descriptions, and additional information about climbs on Long’s Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park that are available with San Juan Mountain Guides are listed below. Additional private days of instruction, training, and climb preparation can also be scheduled in conjunction with the climbs listed below and may be recommended based on your previous climbing experience and background.

All of the routes and climbs listed below can be arranged as eitherr a 1 day itinerary or a 2 day itinerary. The 2 day itinerary affords you the opportunity to split up the approach and climb which can help to manage exertion levels for the program.

The North Face “Cables” Route (II, 5.4)

One of the most classic routes in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Cables Route was first established in 1915. This is a great introduction to technical alpine climbing and is less crowded than the popular Keyhole Route.

Kiener’s Route (III, 5.4, Mixed Alpine/Snow/Ice)

A moderate line up the improbable East Face, this is one of the more sought after routes on Long’s Peak. Catch it in June or July for incredible alpine climbing conditions.

The Diamond, Casual Route (IV, 5.10a)

The classic multi-pitch alpine rock climb on one of the most recognizable rock faces in North America. This is a must-do for all alpine and rock climbing enthusiasts. Previous multi-pitch rock climbing experience is required to participate in this climb.

The Keyhole Route (II, Class 3)

One of the easier routes to the summit of Long’s Peak still offers plenty of route finding challenges, exposure, and awe-inspiring views of the peaks throughout Rocky Mountain National Park.

Training & Follow Up Climbs

As always, being in excellent physical shape is an important component of our our programs. A good mixture of cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, and especially core strength will help you to maximize the potential rewards that are possible on a great climbing trip.

Before Your Trip

Trips in Rocky Mountain National Park should be considered strenuous.  Therefore, previous experience hiking in the mountains and/or multi-day backpacking experience will be very helpful to you on this program. Though the actual climbing level will very according to your custom itinerary, but the best training regimen would include a mixture of cardiovascular fitness training (running, biking, hiking etc.), and muscular/core fitness exercises. The addition of some Yoga/stretching exercises will help to insure that you maintain good muscular flexibility as well.

For trips in Rocky Mountain National Park you should be ready for:

• Hiking up to 6-7 miles per day with up to a 30 lb pack at altitudes between 8,000′ – 11,000′
• 8 – 10 hour summit days with a lighter “day pack”
• Wilderness travel

Follow Up Climbs

• Petit Grepon
• Intermediate Alpine Climbing Course
• Private Alpine Guiding
• Hallet’s Peak

Estes Park, Colorado: Getting There

Estes Park, Colorado is located in the Northeastern part of Colorado and approximately 45 minutes from Boulder. A mecca for climbing, hiking, cycling, and foodies; make sure you plan to spend some time in town before and after your SJMG trip. Estes Park serves as the launching point for all of our climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park.

*If you are planning to combine additional days of climbing in Eldorado Canyon or The Flatirons then Boulder, CO is also a logical place to base your lodging for your trip.

 The best option for flying to the area is to fly into Denver, CO. Many airline options exist, and because Denver is a major airline and travel destination there are typically many one-way flights to choose from.

 You will likely need a to organize a rental car to drive to Estes Park from Denver. Typically in the summer months you can choose any type of vehicle but in the spring and winter months please consider that weather can change rapidly in the mountains so an All Wheel Drive or Four Wheel Drive vehicle is worth considering. Below are some approximate driving times to get to Estes Park, CO.

• Denver, CO: 1.5 hours
• Boulder, CO: 45 minutes
• Colorado Springs, CO: 2.5 hours

Estes Park has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while you’re in the area. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suit you best for this trip! Below are just a few options catering to different lodging styles and preferences.

• Rocky Mountain Park Inn
• Rodeway Inn
• Hotel Estes

Boulder, CO also has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while you’re in the area. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suit you best for this trip!

• Boulder Adventure Lodge
• Holiday Inn Express Boulder
• Boulder Marriott

Program Policies

Registration & Cancellation

Advance Registration is required for this program.  You have the option to either call our office and register via phone or utilize our secure Online Reservation System.  All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies.

Inclusions

• Guiding and instruction with an AMGA Certified/Trained Guide
• Group technical gear (ropes, etc.)
• Group camping and cooking equipment (tents, stoves, etc.)

Exclusions

• Transportation to Estes Park, CO
• Hotel costs before, during, or after the program
• Guide gratuity
• Lunch food or snacks
• Personal hiking/climbing clothing
• Trip Cancellation Insurance (recommended)
• Costs associated with weather delays or other variables beyond the control of San Juan Mountain Guides