CHASM LAKE RMNP

 For anyone visiting Colorado, one of the most well recognized iconic mountains is Long's Peak. It is one of the 58 mountains in Colorado that reaches above 14,000 ft from sea-level. It is one of the more iconic ones because it is along the front range of Colorado, and the only visible 14er along the front range in Northern Colorado. It is also the only 14er within the Rocky Mountain National Park, so it is known by many tourists visiting. 

The Rocky Mountain National Park is a vast area of dramatic cliffs, landscape mountain views, snow, mountain goats, fields of wildflowers, and is ever changing from season to season. For those that are eager to get a close up view and see the hype of Longs Peak without taking the trek up the boulder fields, past the key hole for about a 16mile hike, Chasm Lake hike is a great alternative.

The hike is about 8 miles with 2,680ft of elevation gain. It is a gradual climb to Chasm lake, and will take you to the base of Long's Peak where the start of the cable route begins. 

This is a great early spring or winter option since the climb is gradual with low exposure and makes for a fun snowshoe or backcountry ski experience in the winter. 

The route starts at the Long's Peak Trailhead where there is the option to camp if you are in need of a place to stay while traveling. This hike can easily be done as a day hike however. And it takes less than an hour to get to the trailhead from Boulder by car.

Distance: 8 miles

Elevation: 2,682ft

Parking Lot GPS:  Longs Peak Trailhead

Directions: 

The trial will follow the trail to Long's Peak. The first 1.5 miles is through the trees and you will eventually reach above tree line. Continuing to follow the trail upwards, you will eventually turn left at the sign pointing towards Chasm Lake about 3 miles in. Follow the side of the ridge, curve right around a hill and up to the lake. Through winter and into May there will likely still be snow, so come prepared with the right winter gear.