Chasm Junction: Gateway to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake

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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.

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Chasm Junction

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.

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Getting There

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.
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.
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

Chasm Junction marks a significant crossroads on the popular East Longs Peak Trail. Approximately 3.2 miles from the Longs Peak Trailhead, this junction presents hikers with a choice: continue towards the challenging Class 3 ascent of Longs Peak via the Keyhole Route, or veer left towards the breathtaking alpine scenery of Chasm Lake. For those aiming for Longs Peak, the path to the right leads onwards and upwards, eventually bringing hikers to the Boulder Field and the start of the Keyhole Route. This section of the trail is renowned for its demanding terrain, exposure, and the need for scrambling skills. Proper preparation, including an early start and awareness of weather conditions, is crucial for a safe and successful summit attempt. The trail to Chasm Lake, branching off to the left at the junction, offers a rewarding alternative. This 8.4-mile round trip hike climbs steadily through forests and across open terrain, culminating in stunning views of the lake nestled beneath the towering peaks of Longs Peak, Mount Lady Washington, and Mount Meeker. The final stretch to the lake involves a steeper ascent, but the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort. Chasm Lake is a popular destination for hikers seeking a challenging yet achievable alpine experience. Regardless of the chosen path, Chasm Junction serves as a reminder of the beauty and challenges within Rocky Mountain National Park. It's a place to catch your breath, assess your preparedness, and make a crucial decision that will shape the rest of your adventure.