![]() ![]() The main feature of the Chasm Lake hike is Chasm Lake itself, a stunning glacial tarn that sits in a dramatic, deep cirque formed at the base of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and Mount Lady Washington. To return, retrace the route you came in on back to the trailhead. There are a few cairns to mark the way, but you can choose whichever way is easiest for you to get up the rocks.Īt the top, Chasm Lake will come into view and the Diamond Face of Longs Peak looms over you! See if you can spot any rock climbers on the wall. Find the path of least resistance for a short, but easy, scramble up the rocks. You’ll see a sign pointing up the rock to Chasm Lake. Look to your right, there is another waterfall coming down the rocky cliff. The trail winds through the marsh, back and forth over the river until you reach the rocks. Keep to the trail in this section, as the surrounding ground is very sensitive. Follow the path as you make your way over the large boulders that are over the river flowing into the waterfall. The trail leads you back up in elevation to the top of Columbine Falls. The snow is usually gone by the end of August and returns in late September or October. Watch your footing and use a stick, walking pole or your hands for balance on the snow. Depending on the time of year, you may have to cross two snowfields along the trail. The trail now descends for 0.8 km leading you to views of the Diamond Face of Longs Peak straight ahead, Mt Meeker to the left and Mount Lady Washington on your right. Continue straight for 1.2 km to Chasm Lake. ![]() To the left is a bathroom and the right trail would take you to the hiker’s summit of Longs Peak through the boulder field and Keyhole route. The trail to Chasm Lake is straight ahead. Stay on the main trail, following the signs for Chasm Lake and Longs Peak.Īt a large juncture, approximately 5.5 km into the hike, you can rest for a bit before continuing on. You’ll see Battle Mountain to the right and a trail leading to the Battle Mountain campground. The trees become shorter and the trail gets rockier and steeper. Shortly after, you’ll pop out of the woods into the alpine tundra. Most of the year, this creek crossing is dry, however after rain or during snow-melt you’ll see the stream.Īt 3.2 km, you’ll arrive at a longer bridge over a year-round river and small water cascade. At 2.7 km, you’ll get to the first footbridge. You’ll stay in the woods for over 3.2 km, catching short, quick glimpses of Longs Peak through the trees. At 0.8 km into the hike, you’ll stay left, on the main trail, following the signs to Longs Peak at the intersection. The Chasm Lake trail starts off gradually and gets more and more steep as you hike. This is also where you would start for the hiker’s summit of Longs Peak. Start the Chasm Lake hike by following the trail west from the Ranger Station. Weather can change fast while hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, so make sure you’re prepared. The challenge is worth it, with beautiful views of the Diamond Face of Longs Peak towering over Chasm Lake, millions of columbine flowers in the spring and summer, and a view of Columbine Falls into Peacock Pond.įrom the trailhead, find the Longs Peak information board and trailhead and check the day’s weather report. Don’t let the mileage deceive you – the Chasm Lake hike is a challenging trail that begins at 2,743 m in elevation and is harder than it looks. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |