Background

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.

4.8

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.
widget icon

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

Unlock the Best of Chasm Junction

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Chasm Junction

Chasm Junction is more than just a trail intersection; it's a landmark that signifies a shift in the hiking experience within Rocky Mountain National Park. Located at approximately 11,540 feet, it marks the divergence between the path to the challenging Longs Peak summit and the equally rewarding Chasm Lake trail. For those aiming for Longs Peak, Chasm Junction is often reached by sunrise, marking the entry to the Boulderfield and the start of the Keyhole Route, a demanding climb to the summit. This route is not a hike but a climb, crossing sheer vertical rock faces and requiring scrambling. Alternatively, the Chasm Lake trail offers a stunning, though strenuous, 4.2-mile hike to Chasm Lake, nestled at the base of Longs Peak. The trail leads through a subalpine forest and across a tundra meadow, offering views of Peacock Pool and Columbine Falls. Historically, the area around Longs Peak has drawn visitors since the late 19th century, with guides like Enos Mills popularizing the ascent and advocating for the park's establishment. While the East Longs Peak Trail was rerouted in 1925 to ease the initial climb, Chasm Junction remains a key point, offering access to both natural beauty and challenging climbs.

Popular Experiences near Chasm Junction

Popular Hotels near Chasm Junction

Select Currency