Chasm Junction: Gateway to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake
The crossroads of adventure: Where the trail splits for Longs Peak summit and the serene Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chasm Junction, located on the East Longs Peak Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, is a critical trail intersection for hikers and climbers. It serves as the branching point for those heading to the summit of Longs Peak via the Keyhole Route and those venturing to the stunning Chasm Lake.
A brief summary to Chasm Junction
- East Longs Peak Trail, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as both hikes are strenuous and can take several hours.
- Be prepared for varying temperatures; layers are recommended, even in summer.
- If hiking to Longs Peak, be aware of the climb's difficulty and potential hazards; assess your abilities and be prepared to turn back if needed.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive south on CO-7 for approximately 8.9 miles to the Longs Peak Ranger Station turnoff. Follow the road for 1 mile to the Longs Peak Trailhead parking area. Parking is limited and fills up very early, especially on weekends. Consider arriving between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM if you plan to summit Longs Peak. A timed entry permit may be required to enter the park during certain hours. As of 2022, the permit cost $2.
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Public Transport
From Denver, you can take the Bustang bus to the Rocky Mountain National Park Park & Ride. From the Park & Ride, you can connect to the Hiker Shuttle to reach various trailheads. However, there does not appear to be a direct shuttle to the Longs Peak Trailhead. Alternatively, private transportation services offer drop-offs at the trailhead from Estes Park, with rates depending on the number of passengers. Bustang bus fare from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park is $11 - $17.
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
13.5 km
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Performance Park
13.5 km
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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
13.6 km
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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
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Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
5.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock amidst the stunning Colorado Rockies, a perfect blend of nature and spirituality.
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
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Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
6.4 km
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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
Experience the tranquility of Lily Lake in Estes Park, a perfect hiking and picnic destination surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountains.
Wild Basin Trailhead
6.8 km
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Twin Sisters Peaks
6.8 km
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Bear Lake Trailhead
6.9 km
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Copeland Falls
6.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Twin Owls Steakhouse
9.1 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
11.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
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
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
12.8 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
12.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
The View Restaurant
13.0 km
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
13.1 km
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Mother's Cafe
13.3 km
Discover comfort food at Mother's Cafe in Estes Park - where every dish feels like home amidst stunning mountain views.
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
13.5 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at MollyB Restaurant in Estes Park - where great food meets stunning mountain views.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
13.5 km
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Chester`s Philly
13.5 km
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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
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Trading Post of the Rockies in scenic Estes Park.
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
13.5 km
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Estes Park 5 & 10
13.5 km
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Favorite Things
13.5 km
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The Whispering Wood
13.5 km
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Over The Edge
13.5 km
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Omnibus
13.5 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
13.5 km
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Country West City East Gifts
13.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
13.2 km
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
13.4 km
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
13.6 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
13.6 km
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Wheel Bar
13.7 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
13.7 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
13.9 km
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
14.4 km
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217 Wine Bar
14.4 km
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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
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
The Bitter Bar
38.2 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
License No. 1
38.2 km
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.