This was undoubtedly one of my most memorable, captivating and enjoyable mtn. climbs yet. If you watched this or if you climbed this amazing mtn., what stands out as most memorable to you? For me, I think the most intimidating moment of the day was when I reached the Keyhole and looked out over the steep, rocky, shadow-covered and wind-blown expanse on the west side of the mountain and knew this was the next stage. Anyway, happy trails! Also, for the play list of my other full mtn. climbs: kzitem.info/door/PL_-D3-4b6xbqY9qs5cN_QFTiqs4gNUstL -Centennial Treks
@danieldonovan6703
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Centennial Treks.. ! My name is Danny Donovan and I live in Boulder. This year I've done Grays and Torrey's (both in the one day... traverse hike). That was pretty easy actually wasn't bad at all (great workout) and I've always wanted to do Longs Peak... and now is the best time (Sept 1-30th) and i would be gratified to get this under my belt! But, i am very serious about having a 'safe, smart' hike to the summit. I have no doubt I will get to the Keyhole where i can access the situation (i.e. weather, how I feeling, etc) and get some good water intake and food there. Next, get to the Ledges... and work my way across (very carefully :--). Then, at the 'end of Ledges' there's that slippery rock w/spike (18:26 in video). A lot of people are scared of that class 3 move there (some turn back there, looking at this section from a a bit of a distance). I too, know that the rock across the upper climbs has over 15,000 people each years (for many years) and is like marble. The rock has been smoothed out so much, it could be extremely an issue... and on that section off the Ledges, up that rock... to the Trough concerns me too. I noticed you didn't even grab the spike (good move :-) as it appears to be quite easy to step/climb through there, to get up and away from that section quite easy... as I noticed you did great there, and pointed out the slippery rock. Can you give me any advice, suggestions... heads-ups, anything that will help me understand that section (both up & down) and be prepared with a well-planned, careful, safe hike/climb and my personal goal to reach the summit. (i've lived here 11 yrs and see the flattop peak from my location everyday.... i have to do this, at same time i am reaching out for certain questions and suggestions) thank you !! Danny
@danieldonovan6703
3 жыл бұрын
(note: i meant 19:25 in the video)
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Hey Danny - it is wise of you to try to educate yourself on this (or any) route before attempting it. In addition to watching actual videos of the climb like this one, I recommend the excellent descriptions provided on 14ers.com, and in Gerry Roach's book: "Colorado's 14ers - From Hikes to Climbs." I believe a significant number of adverse events are the result of people not studying the way beforehand and just "going for it." Anyway, from just an endurance perspective, if the Grays-Torreys combo didn't tire you out much, then you should be ok to do Long's. However, Long's probably involves about 6 more total miles and maybe 1,700 more feet in elevation gain. Plus, it obviously presents greater climbing challenges. If you question the weather or how you are feeling, the Keyhole is a logical place to turn around. As for the Ledges, the "spike rock" is more toward the beginning. As you saw, the rock itself won't provide much traction - maybe just step more along the bottom than I did. Also, I believe the Ledges section is the easiest area to get off course. I found that on the return trip, the tendency might be to ascend back up to the ridge prematurely - see 49:18 in the video. Generally, in summer conditions the painted bullseyes provide accurate guidance from Keyhole to summit. The trough doesn't present too much climbing difficulty (until the very top - see 26:07), but it is the most exhausting stretch. The Narrows is probably the spookiest part, but there is actually ample width. Its hardest parts are at the beginning (I recommend going to the right of the rock at 28:40, as the left would be fairly awkward), and the end (climbing up the rock "slot" at 32:10 to 32:40). The rock slabs on the Homestretch are low-angle enough that traction is solid. However, in wet conditions this stretch could become much more hazardous - therefore, avoid any trickling water or ice. Also, one area that people might overlook/underestimate is the upper parts of the boulder field. The boulders become larger and harder to negotiate as you approach the Keyhole, and a fall onto the rocks could mean a serious injury. A year ago someone commented on this video saying they had witnessed this. Overall, in addition to studying the route beforehand, maintain focus & awareness at all times. Hopefully you have a successful and enjoyable trip. And don't forget to come back on this thread afterwards and let us know your thoughts on how it went. -CT
@1948painter
Жыл бұрын
@@danieldonovan6703 I’m 75 now. I made it to the top of Longs Peak three times. (On my first attempt in early August 1977, the wind was really strong, and hikers said there was ice in the Trough, so I turned back at the Keyhole.) On my last hike, circa 1994, I encountered a shower on the way down. I really freaked out for a minute when I got to that “slippery rock w/ spike” on the Ledges. Seems like I stepped around it somehow, hoping that my feet wouldn’t slip on the wet rocks and send my plunging down a very steep drop-off. Over the years, on a few trips to Colorado from Louisiana, I hiked a number of other fourteeners, but none nearly as challenging to a flatlander as Longs Peak. Without the Park Service’s red and yellow bullseyes to guide me, I never would have attempted it. And, though the numerous hikers can create a bit of a traffic jam, it was reassuring to see other hikers making their way along the trail.
@danieldonovan6703
Жыл бұрын
@@1948painter Hi David.... you rock ! glad to hear you're story I made it last summer Aug 14th 2022. The day/weather was perfect, I had no problem at all... other than I was little dehydrated coming back, I was low on water and other hikers gave me some :-) I can see the flat-peak biggest mountain everyday, from Boulder/Denver I live.... and this is a good sight knowing I conquered, I survived Lol and have those memories of a great hiking day on a great mountain. Same you... sure be proud (that sh--t ain't easy :--)
@nicholasbeck2649
10 күн бұрын
I like that you showed part of the descent. No one ever shows descending these mountains even though it's usually more difficult than ascending.
@CentennialTreks
10 күн бұрын
Yeah, for sure, descending can be trickier than going up, and it's often where people meet with trouble. The top is only half way, so in the interests of trying to be thorough, it is incumbent upon me to show some of the descent, at least on the more difficult peaks. Thanks - I'm glad to hear you appreciate this!
@michaelfitzgerald434
3 жыл бұрын
Climbing up to the Keyhole and seeing the mountain drop away from me on the other side was the most memorable scene for me. That was 44 years ago. Pleased to see it still thrills first time climbers to this day. Just an awesome experience.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah that was for sure the point when I knew it was no joke!!
@udayks2009
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for all the efforts you took to capture this...your videos and descriptions are helping so many of us out who are overwhelmed by the challenge of this peak! Thank you sincerely 😊🙏
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
Well, thank you and I'm glad if these help. This footage and video can provide an idea of what it is like to be on the route in real time. Also, people should definitely read the other route descriptions (like the sources I always mention in the video descriptions), check the weather forecasts and reports on recent peak conditions, as well as be physically prepared and have the right gear.
@mikeburdi9122
3 жыл бұрын
Totally fantastic, I climbed Longs Peak about 40 years ago. Following the video brought clarity to some of the climb I’d forgotten. But so much of it seemed like it was only yesterday. My climb was in July, not a good month to climb any fourteen er, as we encountered a late afternoon thunderstorm during the descent. A seminal day for me, thank you so much for sharing this wonderful video.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your kind remarks. I do enjoy seeing the comments from people who climbed these mountains long before I did, and how it takes them back. I did this climb in late September, which turned out to be fortunate. It was reasonably nice the whole time, and there weren't that many people on the mountain.
@davidbowers7873
3 жыл бұрын
Very enjoyable. I climbed same route in 1979 and I had forgotten how narrow the Narrows was. I'll never forget how much Boulderfield took out of me nor climbing out of the top of the trough. Thanks for sharing.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching - and yes, so many moments to remember about this mtn. I imagine it will stick in my memory for many years also.
@teodelfuego
2 ай бұрын
Excellent work and very helpful.
@CentennialTreks
2 ай бұрын
Thanks, I'm glad to hear it!
@papajon62
Жыл бұрын
This is a great documentary of a classic. We made it to the keyhole on our assault, but hade to turn around due to too much ice on the final sections. Hoping to return again one day with better luck and a little more wisdom. For now, this video will be a case study. Thanks! 😊
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
Thanks - and yes, a lot of ice would make this a whole different story. I was pretty fortunate.
@kar4938
2 жыл бұрын
One of my favorite 14er hikes. Once you get to The Keyhole, the real hiking begins. Ice in The Trough in July. The exposure on The Narrows and The Homestretch is eye opening to say the least. Plan on about 12 hours round-trip. With the hordes going there these days, many of them inexperienced, I'm amazed there aren't more rescues and deaths on this mountain.
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
It does get crowded during high summer; here, I went in late September and took about 8 hours. As you say, the average trip and back will definitely be quite a bit longer than that. Many people choose to begin in the middle of the night to reach the higher portions of the mountain and get off of them before the bad weather tends to roll in. This is generally wise, but one thing I would suggest is to make sure it is light enough to see by the time you get to the boulder field, since it involves negotiating large rocks that could produce an injury. Also, as far as I know this mountain is the deadliest 14er in terms of the absolute number of fatalities, having been home to more than any other (though I believe a few others have higher fatality per attempt ratios) - which has to do with both its objective difficulty, but also, as you point out, with the sheer number of people, many inexperienced, attempting it these days. Indeed, there has been a sizable overall increase in 14er fatalities in recent years. No one should try to make Long's their "first 14er"!!
@rlstivers1
3 жыл бұрын
One of the best all around videos I’ve found regarding Longs Peak. Very well done sir! I’m trying to build my strength and stamina before tackling this one. Your vid gives me a great idea of what to expect. I’m 61 and have done 15 14ers in the last 2 years but this will be the most challenging one yet so trying to learn as much as I can before attempting. Thanks again!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!! And yes - you want to go into any of these having studied the route. And as you know, being in good physical shape: 1) decreases your chance of an adverse event; 2) increases your chance of making it all the way, and 3) increases your chances of enjoying the experience!! Good luck when you attempt it. -CT
@alozuldo
2 жыл бұрын
Really informative video for those who had never climbed it before like me. Thanks!
@jenniferk782
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for showing the descent! I'm like a cat: I can do up, but I have a much harder time going down. Hardly anyone shows their descent, and seeing some of it makes me much more comoftable!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
I appreciate you watching. Generally, descending is more dangerous - and often provides even better views also!! I feel like people can get a more complete picture of the experience if they can see at least some of it from the other direction also.
@jenniferk782
3 жыл бұрын
@@CentennialTreks Yes, a different perspective is always nice! I can see Longs Peak from my apartment, and I can't wait to summit it!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Well good luck on your try!!
@jenniferk782
3 жыл бұрын
@@CentennialTreks Thank you!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
😁
@harrisonz1515
Жыл бұрын
The best peak climbing instruction! Have worried about how hard is this "Everest training peak", now it's all clear, sharp degree with too many rocks! For my tight schedule road trip I may just stop at the keyhole or go to the lake. The rock puzzle will kill my sight, and I won't drive 12 hours back home next day. But totally make sense if I live close to the Long's I will never get bored to find out a faster way go through the rocks😂
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
Often, to me one of the toughest things is having to do a lot of driving the same day as a long mountain climb, especially on the way back. A night's rest is certainly helpful, but 12 hours? Hmmm. If you were to turn around at the Keyhole, you would still gain over 4,000 feet in elevation for the day, but definitely save on time. The distance after the Keyhole is only about 10% of the total, but it could represent perhaps as much as half the total time.
@yuanwang7108
2 жыл бұрын
.Thank you so much for making such detailed video! Now I know exactly what to prep
@robertthieling4708
Жыл бұрын
Best longs climbing video ever!
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!!
@marthanadennis7441
4 жыл бұрын
This is amazing I am seeing views I would never see any other way. This climb obviously takes a lot of stamina Great work on editing and the music. Thank you for sharing your adventure
@CentennialTreks
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed it!
@Jakereisman11111
4 ай бұрын
This mountain is at the top of my bucket list. If I ever die young I want my ashes at the top of this mountain
@CentennialTreks
4 ай бұрын
Well, I've got to be honest - one could do a lot worse for a final resting place!
@1193bobmcc
3 жыл бұрын
Fantastic video. Amazing editing & commentary!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks sir - much appreciated!!
@rugged9769
3 жыл бұрын
The most detailed video of Longs I can find. Thank you sir. Btw I thought you were a much older gentleman listening to your voice and then music, then realized you are a relatively young man when you showed your face on top :)
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching and I'm glad you appreciate the detail. I realize this is a pretty long video but since it was my goal to comprehensively describe the climb, I was more than willing to sacrifice shortness for thoroughness. And thanks on the last bit too - I'll take sounding old and looking young any day!! -CT
@CentennialTreks
4 жыл бұрын
Yesterday evening (1-16-20) someone went to the trouble of composing and posting a thoughtful and insightful comment on this video, but when I tried to pull it back up this afternoon to reply to it, it was gone. I really doubt the commenter would have deleted it, and neither did I of course. So what the heck?! They discussed, among other things, their experience on the mtn. and what they saw as the hidden dangers of the boulder field, and how they encountered someone there that day who was badly injured on the rocks. Sorry, whoever you are - but thanks at any rate for watching and for your kind remarks.
@OayxYT
2 жыл бұрын
if i may ask, what were some of his warnings regarding the boulder field?
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
If I remember right, I think this person had seen someone on that stretch who had either fallen and/or misstepped on one of the boulders, and torn their leg open. I believe the implicit warning was that many people go into Long's concerned entirely about the Ledges, Trough, and Narrows, but that there are other dangers as well - like the long approach hike, and the large rocks of the boulder field, which are by no means trivial to negotiate - especially the upper ones. I don't recall this commenter saying whether the injured party was on the ascent or descent (descent after that, no doubt....), but it could easily be imagined that on the descent, in a state of exhaustion, one could become lethargic both physically & mentally on that stretch, and be more prone to injury. So be focused at all times and don't underestimate it, I think was the overall warning.
@OayxYT
2 жыл бұрын
@@CentennialTreks i will keep this in mind when i try to summit longs in a few years (literally just started hiking so im going to have to work up to longs)
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
Working up to it is the wise approach. I feel there are too many people, particularly now, who just "go for it." These, unfortunately, are the ones who often end up in serious trouble.
@tipshikes3682
3 жыл бұрын
Clean video great footage from start to finish big hell ya.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching and saying so - I'm glad you enjoyed it!!
@jakefink4040
3 жыл бұрын
Great video man! Loved the detail. You made great time. Interesting that you started much later in the day than most.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for appreciating it! I actually arrived at the TH parking lot long before I started hiking, since I wanted to make sure I got a parking space. That didn't turn out to be an issue, but nevertheless I set out as late as I did for a number of reasons: I wanted it to be light in order to record my trip; I don't like going through the forest in the dark; and in late September the possibility of early afternoon thunderstorms is certainly there, but less than in high summer. In high summer many people set out at like 2 or 3 am to avoid this - which makes sense. -CT
@davidkinash5494
Жыл бұрын
Wow ! You got that right
@andrewmarsman3294
2 жыл бұрын
Amazing footage! In 6 days I’m going to climb my first 14er (Elbert) but I would be up for this challenge someday (depending how this weekend goes).
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks - this place abounds with good photo opps. Long's is indeed a challenging mtn. in terms of all the objective parameters - distance, elevation gain, climbing moves, various hazards, route-finding, etc. So, it is probably wise to "work up" to such a mtn. by first completing some class 2 peaks, and maybe even a few easier class 3 ones.
@OutdoorExistential
3 жыл бұрын
So cool to see this blow up!!
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Right?!....Yeah it looks like people have gotten into this lately. Definitely one of, say, the top 5 well-known mtns. in CO. Later.
@johneason6540
Жыл бұрын
Its September 2023, I heading here in 2 weeks. I have done other 14teeners, this one looks like a real challenge. Just looking at the backside, ledges, trough and narrows really have me concerned, but I see many people do this hike. What was your prep like, would you do it again, knowing that you have already experienced it. What was your total distance and total time? Thanks
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
This is a formidable mtn climb, in all the ways it can be. It is long, involves a lot of elevation gain, a fair amount of route-finding, exposure, and climbing challenges. For the experienced mtn climber it isn't too harrowing (unless one encounters the unexpected), but for the casual hiker it can be, and has been, quite a danger. Indeed, many people attempt it, but honestly many of them probably shouldn't - which is why this peak yields more adverse experiences, to my knowledge, than any other. Physically, I didn't have to prepare specifically for this, since it was at the end of a summer of 14er climbs, which had me in good cardio high-elevation condition already. Psychologically I felt decent about it, since at the time it was my 2nd class 3 14er climb. Educationally, I made sure to study the route in a couple different guides. Generally, the painted bullseyes are a good guide. In the Ledges section, the challenge is to stay on route. The Trough is the most exhausting, the loosest, and has the most rock fall potential. the Narrows is the spookiest. The Homestretch would be adverse in bad weather, water or ice. There are many of the 14ers I have climbed multiple times, and I would definitely climb this iconic mtn again given the opportunity. I wouldn't mind trying the Loft route, actually. As I recall, this route is 14 or 15 miles round-trip, and it took me a little over 8 hours total. Honestly, I went pretty fast that day. Most people can expect to take well over 10 hours. Thank you for the question!
@aliensoup2420
3 жыл бұрын
The map is deceptive - half the hike in terms of energy and time is after the Keyhole. Its a tough slog, but the Colorado natives do this for a Sunday stroll. When I did it I saw families with Mom & Dad, kids, and 19 yr. old daughter in hot pants with no daypack. Just up and down like a trip to the corner market.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Certainly, the map could be deceiving without any information about the nature of the terrain following the Keyhole. It took me 3 hours to get from the TH to the Keyhole, and about an hour and 20 minutes to get to the top from there. That's about 30% of the total time for a stretch that is only roughly 10% of the total distance. This is by far the highest-trafficked of the state's more difficult 14ers, which probably has something to do with why it also has yielded the most fatalities. Not that there aren't plenty of routine & pleasant climbs of it by the fit and able like you are saying, but of course I feel obligated to urge caution in making these videos. ☠️😇.... Anyway, thanks for watching!!
@1193bobmcc
3 жыл бұрын
This is not a trip to the corner market for anyone. I get the hyperbole, but nobody should be deceived that any but the most fit can do this mountain.
@aliensoup2420
3 жыл бұрын
@@1193bobmcc Just an illustration of the difference between locals and tourists. When I was in Hawaii I hiked the 1st leg of the Kalalau trail - about 2 1/2 miles of rugged, up and down along the Kauai coastline. Along the way I ran into a family of 4 making the return trip. The father said they had just swam the ocean from the trailhead to the 1st beach, where I was headed. He was wearing only swim trunks and built like a greek god. The wife was equally fit, and the kids were young adolescents. Also, the way I learned of Longs Peak was from a hiker I met at the top of Mnt. San Jacinto in S. Calif. (10,800 ft) . I passed him near the top as he was stopped for a cigarette break, and wearing common sneakers for footwear. Coming down from the top he recommended other peaks he had hiked including Longs Peak. For some people "fitness" is just a silly catch phrase, and they can do whatever they want.
@wesgilmer5391
3 жыл бұрын
Is it just me or is some of the text difficult to decipher? My color vision is poor so maybe it's me. Nevertheless, this is great video and description of the climb. I hope that I can do it some day.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
Actually, you're not the first person to tell me this - and yes, I should have used a different font or something. But I'm glad you enjoyed it anyway. Cheers!! -CT
@joesalazar3396
2 жыл бұрын
Don’t know how you started after the sunrise. I started at 1245 am. Back to car around 3pm!!!!
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
Usually I would set out on foot earlier for a 14er climb, but since on this occasion it was late September and not high summer, I was less concerned about early afternoon storms. And since I make videos, I prefer it to be light out. Plus, on this occasion I was in good shape and knew I would be pretty fast. But that being said, there are the super-fit people I sometimes encounter, who actually run much of the way up these high mountains. I personally don't much like running, but more power to 'em!!
@michaelwagner1202
2 жыл бұрын
Great video! I’m headed that way this week and have been planning and studying Long’s Peak for some time. I know this video is about two years old, but I am curious about the duration after the Keyhole. Ballpark, how long was the ascent/decent from the Keyhole? I know there are many factors that come into play. I’m just curious about how long that section took you. Thanks!
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
From the time I arrived at the Keyhole on the way up to there time I got back to it on the way down, was about 2 and a half hours I believe, including time at the top for snacks and photo opps. The ascent took only slightly more time than the descent. But that is for someone fairly speedy in good, dry conditions. Wetter conditions or snow or ice could slow one down. I would imagine on average, one should plan on this taking several hours.
@michaelwagner1202
2 жыл бұрын
Well now I have my first 14’er in the bag. I don’t know how you did it as fast as you estimated. From my tent in Boulder Field to the summit was much longer than that, not counting the descent. But making the summit was indescribable! There were a few points I seriously considered turning back, but I’m glad I didn’t.
@CentennialTreks
2 жыл бұрын
Well congrats on making it, and thanks for coming back on here and describing your experience. It sounds like I need to adjust my concept for how long this mtn. and this stretch should typically take. And yes - it is always great to be rewarded for the choice to keep at it!
@michaelwagner1202
2 жыл бұрын
Oh I’m sure your time wasn’t off. I just don’t move as fast as I’d like!
@dancer1
4 жыл бұрын
You down to climb again? I tried the other day and was too snowy and didn’t find the right route
@CentennialTreks
4 жыл бұрын
I wouldn't mind climbing this mtn. again sometime....but I imagine pretty soon here winter will set in up there, and snowy conditions will persist until next summer.
@dancer1
4 жыл бұрын
Centennial Treks I tried climbing it on the 28th 😩
@CentennialTreks
4 жыл бұрын
I see. Probably because of that snow we got on September 8. That prevented me from trying a couple mtn. climbs I had been planning. How far did you manage to get before going back?
@dancer1
4 жыл бұрын
Centennial Treks not sure I got a wats past the keyhole before going back due to the snow
@CentennialTreks
4 жыл бұрын
Even when I climbed the mtn. without snow, I thought the stretch just after the Keyhole - the Ledges - would probably be the easiest area to lose the path.
@TexasDivorceAdvice
Жыл бұрын
It's hard to read that dark writing against that dark background
@CentennialTreks
Жыл бұрын
Someone else mentioned that also, and you're not wrong. This being one of the older videos on this channel, that would be the main thing I would change about it.
@cashmoney6994
3 жыл бұрын
Is there something wrong with the thumbnail?
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not quite sure what you mean. Did it not load properly or something? Otherwise, the only thing I can think of is the red line on the picture, which represents the route up the mountain.
@mr.billofcourse.2893
3 жыл бұрын
Hate heights.
@CentennialTreks
3 жыл бұрын
I am still not entirely ok with heights myself - but I have overcome some of my fear of them in recent years. Climbing this mtn. helped me on that.
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