Longs Peak peak
Longs Peak rises to 14,258 ft in Rocky-Mountains within the Front Range range.
Standing tall at an elevation of 14,259 feet (4346 meters), it is the highest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Its majestic size and striking profile have made it a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers alike.
Longs Peak is known for its extreme weather conditions, especially during the winter season. The snowpack on the mountain can vary significantly, with depths ranging from a few inches to several feet. It is essential for climbers to be well-prepared for changing weather and avalanche risks. The snowpack, however, offers excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, such as snowshoeing and skiing.
The mountain is a significant source of runoff for multiple creeks and rivers in the area. Roaring Fork, Saint Vrain Creek, and Glacier Creek are some of the water bodies that receive runoff from Longs Peak. These streams provide essential water resources for wildlife and communities downstream. Moreover, the clear, cold waters of these creeks and rivers attract anglers and nature enthusiasts.
The name "Longs Peak" is derived from Major Stephen H. Long, an explorer who led an expedition to the area in the early 1800s. The mountain is steeped in history and folklore, including tales of Native American tribes who believed the peak to be sacred and imbued with spiritual powers. Additionally, Longs Peak holds a special place in mountaineering history, being home to the famous Keyhole Route, a challenging and popular climbing route that attracts adventurers from around the world.
In summary, Longs Peak is a majestic mountain in the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and exciting challenges to mountaineers. With its towering elevation, varied snowpack, and the role it plays in local water systems, it is a significant natural landmark. Its rich history and legends only add to the allure of this spectacular peak.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Rocky-Mountains range.
Snowpack near Longs Peak
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Eldora | 1 in | → |
| Black Mountain | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Loveland Basin | 1 in | → |
| Berthoud Summit | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Glen Cove | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Sawtooth | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Never Summer | 2 in | → |
| Cinnabar Park | 1 in | → |
| Stillwater Creek | 1 in | → |
| Crow Creek | 5 in | → |
| Berthoud Summit | 1 in | → |
| Cameron Pass | 4 in | → |
Streamflow near Longs Peak
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| West Monument Creek At Air Force Academy | 2 cfs | → |
| S Platte R Ab 11-Mile Canyon Re | 256 cfs | → |
| West Monument Creek Below Rampart Reservoir | 4 cfs | → |
| Arkansas River Below Granite | 280 cfs | → |
| Arkansas River At Granite | 119 cfs | → |
| Clear Creek Above Clear Creek Reservoir | 102 cfs | → |
| West Cr. Abv Shrewsbury Gulch Nr Westcreek Co | 1 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Longs Peak
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Longs Peak.
Ski areas
River runs
- Headwaters To Ends 0.5 Miles Upstream From End Of County Hwy 115
- Begins 0.5 Miles Upstream From End Of County Hwy 115 To Eastern Boundary Of Rocky Mountain National Park
- Begins 0.5 Miles Upstream From End Of Fern Lake Road To Eastern Boundary Of Rocky Mountain National Park
- Nsv
- Headwaters To Ends 0.5 Miles Away From Trail Ridge Road
- Ssv - Confluence To Picnic Grounds
Get Longs Peak on your phone.
Save this peak as a favorite and get push alerts when storms move in, fresh snow falls upstream, or NWS issues a weather warning. Free, account optional.
Scan to install Look for this on your home screen