Chasm Junction: Gateway to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake
A pivotal trail junction on the way to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake, offering access to stunning alpine scenery and challenging climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chasm Junction, located on the East Longs Peak Trail, serves as the branching point for hikers heading to either the challenging summit of Longs Peak or the stunning Chasm Lake. This well-marked intersection offers a brief respite and a crucial decision point amidst the rugged terrain of Rocky Mountain National Park.
A brief summary to Chasm Junction
- East Longs Peak Trail, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early, especially if you're heading to Longs Peak, to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and secure parking.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including strong winds and sudden temperature drops.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as both hikes are strenuous and require significant energy expenditure.
- Wear appropriate hiking shoes and layers of clothing to handle varying terrain and weather conditions.
- Consider hiking to Chasm Lake if you're not prepared for the technical climbing and exposure on the Longs Peak Keyhole Route.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive south on CO-7 for approximately 10 miles. Look for the large Rocky Mountain National Park sign and turn right towards Longs Peak Campground. Follow the road to the end and turn left to reach the Longs Peak Trailhead parking area. Parking is free, but the lot fills up very early, especially on weekends. Consider arriving before sunrise to secure a spot.
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Shuttle
During peak season (late May to mid-October), the Hiker Shuttle provides service from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride on Bear Lake Road. From there, transfer to the free Bear Lake or Moraine Park shuttle routes. Note that the Hiker Shuttle does not go directly to Longs Peak Trailhead. Purchase Hiker Shuttle tickets ($2 per reservation) in advance at Recreation.gov. From the Park & Ride, you would need to find alternative transportation (taxi or private ride service) to the Longs Peak Trailhead, which is approximately a 45-minute drive.
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Walking
Chasm Junction is located 3.2 miles from the Longs Peak Trailhead. From the trailhead, follow the well-marked East Longs Peak Trail. The trail gradually ascends through a forest, crosses a brook, and eventually breaks above the treeline. Continue along the trail until you reach the signed junction for Chasm Lake and Longs Peak.
Discover more about Chasm Junction
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tour Estes Park
12.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Red Rose Rock Shop
12.8 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Estes Park Brewery
13.0 km
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Kruger Rock Trail
13.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife on Kruger Rock Trail in Estes Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Fun City
13.1 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
13.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a premier mountain cable car attraction in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Snowy Peaks Winery
13.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite local wines and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, Colorado.
THE BARREL
13.4 km
Discover The Barrel in Estes Park: a delightful beer garden offering craft brews, cocktails, and stunning views of the Colorado mountains.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
13.4 km
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Estes Park Webcams
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Performance Park
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The Water Wheel
13.5 km
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Penelope's Old Time Burgers
13.5 km
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Historic Park Theatre
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Estes Park Distilling Co.
13.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Keyhole Route
1.0 km
Experience the thrill of summiting Longs Peak via the iconic Keyhole Route, a challenging mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chasm View
2.2 km
Experience breathtaking views from Chasm View in Rocky Mountain National Park, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes.
Longs Peak Trailhead
3.1 km
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Enos Mills Cabin
4.8 km
Explore the legacy of Enos Mills, the 'Father of Rocky Mountain National Park,' at his historic 1885 cabin in Estes Park, Colorado.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
5.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this iconic chapel nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, a must-see landmark near Estes Park.
Alberta Falls
5.7 km
Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Sprague Lake
6.1 km
Enjoy an easy, scenic hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning mountain views and accessible trails.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
6.4 km
Discover the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
6.4 km
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park's stunning trails from Glacier Gorge Junction, a hiker's paradise with alpine lakes and waterfalls.
Lake Of Glass
6.4 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Lily Lake
6.5 km
Discover serene beauty and accessible trails at Lily Lake, a scenic escape near Estes Park with stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife.
Wild Basin Trailhead
6.8 km
Discover Rocky Mountain National Park's serene side: Hike to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes from the Wild Basin Trailhead near Allenspark, CO.
Twin Sisters Peaks
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Hike to the summit of Twin Sisters Peaks for panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Front Range.
Bear Lake Trailhead
6.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, an outdoor haven for hiking and nature enthusiasts alike.
Copeland Falls
6.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Copeland Falls, an easily accessible waterfall hike in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin.
Essential places to dine
Twin Owls Steakhouse
9.1 km
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The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
11.2 km
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Bird & Jim
11.7 km
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
11.9 km
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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
12.0 km
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Coffee on the Rocks
12.8 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
12.9 km
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The View Restaurant
13.0 km
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
13.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
Mother's Cafe
13.3 km
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CAFE DE PHO THAI
13.5 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
Big Horn Restaurant
13.5 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
MollyB Restaurant
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
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Chester`s Philly
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
11.7 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
11.7 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
12.1 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
12.9 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
13.4 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Annie's
13.5 km
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Wonderful Things
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Estes Park 5 & 10
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Favorite Things
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The Whispering Wood
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Over The Edge
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Omnibus
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Country West City East Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
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Wheel Bar
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
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Avant Garde Aleworks
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
14.4 km
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217 Wine Bar
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Pits & Stems
36.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
West End Tavern
38.1 km
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Press Play Bar LP
38.2 km
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The Bitter Bar
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License No. 1
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Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Corner Bar
38.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
