Hiking in Colorado — Guided Longs Peak Summit via the Keyhole Route

Colorado’s Most Iconic 14er

Longs Peak (14,259’) is the crown jewel of Rocky Mountain National Park and the northernmost fourteener in Colorado. The Keyhole Route is the most popular line to the summit — an exposed but non-technical alpine route that winds around the mountain through the famous Keyhole, across the Ledges, up the Trough, and along the Narrows to the summit. It’s a strenuous mountain hike (13 miles round trip, 5,000 feet of elevation gain) that rewards strong hikers with one of the most spectacular summit views in the Rocky Mountains. No climbing experience required, but fitness and determination are essential.

Our Longs Peak Programs

Single-Day Guided Hike: Start from the trailhead between 2–3 AM and aim for the summit by late morning before afternoon weather develops. Your guide manages the pace, route-finding across the upper mountain, and decision-making on the exposed terrain above the Keyhole. A long, demanding day that requires good fitness.

Overnight Guided Hike: Hike to the Boulderfield at 12,500 feet on day one and camp with the summit in view. Summit on day two with a lighter pack and shorter approach. A more relaxed pace that’s ideal for climbers coming from lower elevations who benefit from an acclimatization night.

Season & Getting Here

The Keyhole Route season runs mid-June through mid-September, with the most reliable conditions in July and August. Early-season snow can linger on the upper route into July. The trailhead is in Rocky Mountain National Park, convenient to Denver (1.5 hours), Boulder (1 hour), and Fort Collins (1 hour).