Run Longs Peak

This weekend we're running up Longs Peak! Longs Peak is the 14,259 ft. mountain visible to our north. There will be two parts to this run 1) trailhead to the boulder field / Keyhole, and 2) past the boulder field through the Keyhole.

ROUTE
From the trailhead to the boulder field is around 5 miles and is a typical out/back route (~10 miles total). Anyone interested in joining us for the run is welcome and encouraged to do this section (I suggest also including Chasm Lake for an extra mile or two).

From the boulder field to the top is a different story. I request that only those that want to do this type of hike/scramble and are confident they can handle it, join us for this section. Longs is considered one of the most difficult class 3 fourteener scrambles and has several exposed sections. The total route from the trailhead to the top and back is around 14 miles with 5000 ft. of gain. I expect it to take 6-7 hours.

Continuation past the keyhole will be dependent on the weather, if it is not right we will turn back. I strongly recommend bringing gloves and a jacket to block the wind – the temperature could be much colder than expected – this is not a place you want to get cold. I would recommend gloves that fit snug for easier scrambling on the rocks. Make sure to bring enough water and fuel to maintain your energy. There may be no water available to refill once we get above tree line, so please be prepared. If you have any questions please message me.

CARPOOL/DIRECTIONS
You are welcome to meet us at the Longs Peak trailhead or at one of the two carpool options. I expect we’ll be at the trailhead around 7:00a or so. We'll most likely need to park along the road on the way to the trailhead, then walk to the trailhead. Please notice the earlier starting time. We need to start early and on time to be able to be off the peak earlier in the day before storms roll in.

We'll use the following 2 carpool options:

1. North Foothills Trailhead at 6:00a – At the intersection of Broadway and Hwy 36, head north on 36 a few hundred feet. Turn right onto the dirt road. Trailhead is a little ways down on your left.
2. At the Moxie Mercantile in Lyons roughly 6:20a - 442 High St. @ the corner of 36 & High, Lyons, CO

CONSIDERATIONS
They are forecasting afternoon showers, so we will need to get up/down as quickly as we can; therefore, we will not be waiting long to get started. Please be on time!

No dogs in RMNP.

BREAKFAST (READ ACTION REQUIRED)
We'll plan to eat breakfast at the trailhead. Please use the Google Sign-Up Form to indicate where you plan to meet us and what you plan to bring to share. Note: Use the form for entry, the Google Sheet you can review is read-only.

Lastly, we have new BTRBC apparel for sale. Access the Trail Ambitions Store to purchase a t-shirt, hoodie, and/or hat!

Scott Miller
(303) 885-9826
TrailAmbitions
Running Tips and Guidance: YouTube@TrailAmbitions