Colorado's Deadliest Mountain Has One Of Its Most Awe-Inspiring Hikes
By Hillary Louise Johnson
VACATIONS
Longs Peak is one of Colorado's fabled "14ers," the 58 mountains with summits above 14,000 feet. While it is not a very technical climb, it is the deadliest of the 14ers.
Over 10,000 visitors attempt the climb every summer, and not all belong on a mountain's treacherous slopes. Seventy-one people have died on Longs Peak since 1884.
Falls have caused 70% of those deaths, with hypothermia coming in a close second. Even experienced hikers can get into trouble, as famed female mountaineer Agnes Vaille died here.
The most popular way to summit Longs Peak is via the 7.5 mile Keyhole Route. The last third of the trail is over loose rock and sheer slopes where a fall could mean instant death.
Lots of accidents happen when climbers are descending — the danger increases the more tired you are. Another risk factor is falling rock dislodged by careless climbers above you.
Knowledgeable climbers always start this route before dawn, as it takes 10 to 15 hours to complete the 15-mile round trip and there are often afternoon thunderstorms.
Storms and snow can happen at any time, so watch the forecast. Before attempting the hike, take steps to acclimate to the serious altitude and attempt other, easier summits first.