Keyhole 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.

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.