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Cables Route

4A | D | IV Edit route
The Cables Route is a classic technical alpine route on the East Face of Longs Peak and is much more serious than the standard Keyhole Route. It is typically climbed when conditions are dry and stable, because the route can be dangerous with snow, ice, or thunderstorms. The line follows steep slabs and ledges on the east side, historically protected by fixed cables in the crux section. It involves exposed climbing and route-finding on solid granite, with the difficulty depending strongly on conditions and the exact line taken. The route is less commonly used than the Keyhole Route and is generally considered a mountaineering objective rather than a hike. Rockfall and weather exposure are major concerns on this face.

Route Outline

Longs Peak Trailhead -> Chasm Lake area -> Lambs Slide / East Face
Cables Route line on the East Face -> summit ridge
Summit of Longs Peak
Descend by the same route or via the Keyhole Route

More routes on Longs Peak

Keyhole Route

3A | AD | III
The Keyhole Route is the standard and best-known alpine route on Longs Peak, and it is the only route most climbers use to reach the summit. It is a long, strenuous mountaineering route rather than a hike, with sustained scrambling and exposed sections above treeline. The route crosses the famous Keyhole, then traverses the Trough, Narrows, and Homestretch, each of which requires careful route-finding and surefootedness. The Narrows is a narrow ledge system with significant exposure, especially when wet, icy, or crowded. The Homestretch is a steep granite slab finish that can be slippery in poor conditions. Objective hazards include rockfall, sudden weather changes, and lingering snow or ice early in the season.
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North Face Route

4A | D | IV
The North Face Route is a serious alpine line on Longs Peak that climbs steep terrain on the mountain's north side. It is a much more committing objective than the standard route and is generally associated with mixed snow, ice, and rock conditions depending on season. The face is exposed to objective hazards such as rockfall, loose snow, and rapidly changing weather. Route-finding can be complex, and the climb is significantly more technical than the Keyhole Route. Because conditions vary widely, the character of the route can change from one season to another. It is a recognized mountaineering route on the peak rather than a hiking trail.
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