Rocky Mountain National Park's North Longs Peak Trail

North Longs Peak Trail

Description:
The North Longs Peak Trail begins from Granite Pass at an elevation of 12,093 feet and descends to the Loch Vale Trail at 9,723 feet in about 4.8 miles. The trail begins its descent to the northwest and then turns northeast as it makes its way down toward Glacier Gorge. It contours around the west side of Battle Mountain and drops down the northwest slope to a forested area. Here it continues its descent over several switchbacks, eventually intersecting the Boulder Brook Trail. You get great views of Glacier Basin, Glacier Gorge, and the peaks to the west.

The trail continues west from the intersection and crosses Boulder Brook. It is fairly smooth and easy walking along this section of the trail. After about a mile the trail approaches Glacier Gorge and begins to descend at a more moderate pace. The views here are spectacular. You get great views of Glacier Basin, Bear Lake, and the Glacier Gorge parking area. After skirting around a boulder field, the trail crosses Glacier Creek where it makes a deep cut through the rock. The view from the bridge is awesome. It is a short distance from here to the Loch Vale Trail.

Features:

Length:	4.8 miles (7.72 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	9,723' - 12,093'
Elevation change:	2,574 feet
Season:	Jun 15 - Oct 15
Difficulty:	Moderate
Use:	Low to moderate
USGS maps:	Longs Peak, McHenrys Peak
Trailheads:	Glacier Gorge Junction
Restrictions:	No pets are permitted
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted)
Suitable for horses:	Yes

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
The west end of the North Longs Peak Trail begins from the Loch Vale Trail. The nearest trailhead is the Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead. Take Highway 36 from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to the Bear Lake Road. Follow Bear Lake Road for about 7.7 miles to the trailhead. The trailhead has room for 27 vehicles and fills up early. No roadside parking is permitted for a half mile on either side of the trailhead. There are restrooms and trash bins at the trailhead. The Loch Vale Trail begins across the road. Take this trail for about 1.4 miles to the North Longs Peak Trail.

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