Keyhole Ridge follows the spectacular and exposed northwest ridge of Longs Peak from the Keyhole to the summit. With about 1500 feet of 4th-low 5th climbing on perfect granite, the route makes a great technical summit route that is a good alternative to the standard 3rd class Keyhole Route (which I have done a couple of times as of this trip report). The route is usually done in five to seven roped pitches, or even soloed, depending on conditions and experience.

I am not generally in the habit of soloing 5th class, especially without a partner. But I suspected that this route—where the 5th class sections are moderate, short, and on solid rock—would be within my comfort zone. So I decided to check it out, with a backup plan to do the 3rd class Keyhole Route if I didn't like the looks of the 5th class soloing. I brought a pair of climbing shoes to make the 5th class scrambling feel more secure. I am glad I went for it, as I found the climbing to be enjoyable and super secure on great rock. And, admittedly, there is something cerebral about soloing, where mistakes just aren't allowed. It was a fun way to get to the summit of RMNP's highest peak. I'd do it again (and probably will). I descended via the Keyhole Route. The entire adventure took about 6.5 hours car-to-car.

The following page gives an overlay and photos from my morning adventure. Enjoy.

RMNP had been enjoying a pleasant Indian Summer for most of September, but now that it was just a few days away from the official end to summer, the weather was about to change as well. I decided to take advantage of one of the last warmish and dry days on Longs, and solo the Keyhole Ridge (5.5-5.6) to the summit. I planned to take Clark's Arrow to the Loft (3rd) down, in hopes of finally locating Clark's Arrow carved into the rock.

(Clark's Arrow is a painted arrow on a rock and points climbers to the saddle (The Loft) between Longs Peak and Mt. Meeker. Ranger John Clark painted the arrow in the early days of the park (1923 according to ChatGTP) to help other climbers. The Rossiter guide book and a few other sources note that the arrow was likely swept away in some rockfall circa 2012. Some people have agreeed they cannot find it. But some have claimed it is still there. So I had to find out myself. And yes, it is still there! See the photos in this trip report.)

The following page gives an overlay and photos from my morning adventure. The late summer fall colors were beautiful. Enjoy!