ExpertUnpaved

North Longs Peak Trail

Allenspark, Colorado · Larimer County · National Park Service - Rocky Mountain National Park

North Longs Peak Trail is a expert hiking trail near Allenspark in Larimer County, Colorado.. The surface is unpaved. Managed by National Park Service - Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

🧭 Get Directions 🗺️ Open in OSM

40.28329, -105.60645

Open in OpenStreetMap

About North Longs Peak Trail

What “Expert” Means

Long backcountry routes (20+ miles), alpine grades, via ferrata, or extremely technical terrain. For experienced hikers with proper conditioning, navigation skills, and gear.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
🔦
Headlamp + spare batteries
Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
⛑
Helmet (terrain-dependent)
Expert routes may include scrambling or rockfall risk.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Colorado

Trail conditions in Colorado change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
Tell someone your plan and expected return time
Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is North Longs Peak Trail?

North Longs Peak Trail is rated Expert. Alpine, exposed, or technically demanding. For experienced hikers only.

Are dogs allowed on North Longs Peak Trail?

No — dogs are not permitted on this trail per OpenStreetMap data.

Can I ride a bike on North Longs Peak Trail?

No — this trail is closed to bicycles.

Are horses allowed on North Longs Peak Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on North Longs Peak Trail?

The surface is unpaved. Suitable for strollers and most footwear.

When is the best time to hike North Longs Peak Trail?

Colorado has trail conditions that vary by season. High-elevation routes are typically best from late spring through early fall; expect snow at higher altitudes outside that window. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages North Longs Peak Trail?

North Longs Peak Trail is managed by National Park Service - Rocky Mountain National Park. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.

References & Maps

View original OpenStreetMap record — source data
Open OpenStreetMap at trailhead
Driving directions (Google Maps)

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Hiker standing on a rocky summit overlooking deep mountain valleys

Photo: Holly MandarichExpertCO

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