Are dogs allowed on Longs Peak via Keyhole Route?

No, dogs are not permitted on Longs Peak via Keyhole Route. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Longs Peak via Keyhole Route?

No, Longs Peak via Keyhole Route does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Longs Peak via Keyhole Route?

Longs Peak via Keyhole Route is rated expert. It is 14.5 miles long with 4,856 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Longs Peak via Keyhole Route?

Longs Peak via Keyhole Route is best hiked in summer. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

ExpertOut and Back

Rocky Mountain National Park/Colorado

Longs Peak via Keyhole Route

Estes Park, Colorado

14.5 mi

Distance

4,856 ft

Elev. Gain

7h 16m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Colorado's northernmost fourteener at 14,259 feet. Technical climbing route involving exposed ledges, a narrow trough, and the famous Keyhole formation. Start before dawn essential.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherSevere exposureSteep drop-offsAltitude sickness riskAfternoon thunderstormsTechnical terrainRoute finding requiredRemote location

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Rock

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:970-586-1206
Address:1000 US Hwy 36 · Estes Park, CO · 80517

Best Seasons

Summer

Highlights

14,259-foot summitThe KeyholeThe LedgesThe TroughThe NarrowsThe Homestretch

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Verified from National Park Service public trails dataset

Trail centerline: National Park Service public trails dataset. Source ↗

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the Colorado hunting page

Longs Peak via Keyhole Route

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Chasm Lake Trail

Lily Lake

Lily Mountain Trail

Johnny Park OHV Trail

Bierstadt Lake Trail

Lion Head, Pierson Mountain, Point 9455

Other trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Sky Pond Trail

Emerald Lake Trail

Flattop Mountain Trail

Bear Lake Loop

Chasm Lake Trail

Emerald Lake Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Meeker Park Overflow Campground

Over the Hill

Beaver Mill

Glacier Basin Campground

Olive Ridge

East Portal Campground at Estes Park

Similar trails in Colorado

Sky Pond Trail

Flattop Mountain Trail

Chasm Lake Trail

Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail

Grays and Torrey's Peak

Chicago Lakes Trail