Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead

Estes Park, Colorado

4.7/5

based on 6 reviews

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Details

Distance

8.01 miles

Elevation Gain

2425 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kyle Frost

Get the classic sunrise shot on Longs Peak. A fantastic hike with sublime views in Rocky Mountain National Park and an option to summit Longs Peak (14255') if you've got the energy.

The 4-mile trail climbs around 2500ft from the Longs Peak trailhead and starts by winding through dense forest. In the morning darkness, trudging through thick trees isn’t the most exciting, but when you finally climb out above treeline, the massive profile of Longs and the slowly growing light on the horizon is a welcome sight.

Make sure you know your hiking speed and leave early enough to arrive at the lake for the classic 'Sunrise hitting Longs Peak' shot! If you've got the energy to spare after taking in the sunrise, backtrack a little back to East Longs Peak Trail and head up to the peak through the Keyhole route. This will tack on another 5.5 miles and add an additional 2500' in elevation, so make sure you're ready!

For the winter, be prepared with microspikes or snowshoes depending on the conditions.

Timed Entry System:
Depending on when you choose to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, the timed entry system may be in place. You can learn more about reservations and permits at NPS.gov.

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Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead Reviews

Brittany Urso

Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead

10/02/17

Hiked this on 9/30/17. We started on the trail around 8am and made it to the lake around 10:30am or so. The hike itself is gorgeous with lots of viewpoints. The last bit of the hike takes you through a path of shale... the path is good, however there is definitely ice/ light snow over parts of it. The view at the lake is gorgeous and definitely worth it. Bring layers b/c there is little protection from wind if you go on a breezy day (which we did). Enjoy the hike, it's amazing :)

5.0

Sean O'Brien

Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead

09/28/17

One of the best day hikes near Boulder area. The Chasm meadow leading up to the lake is absolutely wonderful. It is really awesome to hike in the winter too when the lake is frozen over.

5.0

Dani Rodriguez

Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead

07/26/17

After hearing about how amazing this hike was, I decided to see for my own eyes the wonderful view. Unfortunately, me and the weather weren't on the same page on the way there. I couldn't see anything more than a couple feet in front of me because of the fog, and it even started to rain during the third mile (luckily I brought a poncho)! However as I stopped to turn back on the last mile (there was an icy patch that wasn't safe to cross), the fog cleared up and I had the most incredible view from the mountain side. So, to anyone who is worried about the weather, just keep going and I promise it will be worth it!

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead

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Chasm Lake via Longs Peak Trailhead Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Longs Peak

Peacock Pool

Boulderfield Campground via Longs Peak Trail

Storm Peak and Mount Lady Washington

Paddle Lily Lake

Twin Sisters Peak

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