The Diamond on Long's Peak in Colorado is one of North America's most iconic alpine climbing destinations. Rising sharply on the East Face of Long's, the Diamond presents a breathtaking 14,255-foot profile that challenges climbers with its steep granite walls and a raw alpine atmosphere that demands respect and preparedness. This historic wall draws climbers from all over, offering routes that range from scrambles to some of the most demanding free climbs in the region.

Approaching The Diamond starts with the Long's Peak Trailhead, where well-defined trails lead you into the high country of Rocky Mountain National Park. Once you reach Chasm Lake, you find yourself at the foot of the massif, a perfect base for your ascent or scramble. For those targeting the Diamond itself, the North Chimney—often described as the standard route approach—requires cautious negotiation of loose rock and exposure, demanding climbers move carefully and avoid crowding below other parties. This approach is as much a test of attention and mountain savvy as it is physical ability.

The climbing season typically stretches from mid-July through mid-September when summer conditions offer the safest and driest rock, but even then, it pays to watch the weather closely as alpine storms can arrive suddenly at high elevation. The East Face commands the day with morning to early afternoon sun, so timing your climb for cooler morning starts helps avoid overheating on the granite.

The Diamond hosts several classic climbs that have earned stellar reputations. Routes like Casual Route (5.10a), Forrest Finish (5.10c), and Pervertical Sanctuary (5.11a) offer challenging but rewarding climbs, while harder lines such as Hearts and Arrows (5.12b) and Full Dunn-Westbay (5.14) attract climbers aiming to push their limits. Each climb presents a unique piece of the Diamond’s rugged character, with sharp cracks, technical face climbing, and exposed positions that make every move critical.

Protection on these routes generally requires solid trad skills, with climbers using cams, nuts, and occasionally fixed bolts for rappels from the large detached block known as the Chasm View anchor. The rock quality is typically sound but loose rock is a known hazard on approach and some climbing sections, so vigilance is essential.

Because the Diamond sits within Rocky Mountain National Park, climbers must respect seasonal wildlife closures designed to protect nesting raptors. These restrictions, active primarily between mid-February and the end of July, limit off-trail travel in certain areas of the park, so planning climbs outside these times or following closures closely is important to preserve this fragile environment and avoid fines.

Descent from the Diamond involves carefully negotiated rappels from bolts in the Chasm View area, or a long downclimb and hike back to the trailhead. The rappel route demands solid rope skills and attention to anchors, as alpine rappel stations can sometimes face weather-related wear.

For those who visit, the experience of climbing here is far more than a physical challenge. The climb connects you viscerally to a storied alpine landscape with panoramic views sweeping out across the Rockies, above tree line, where each breath is thin and every step matters. The Diamond remains a profound test of mountain skills and endurance, so climbers are urged to approach with care, preparation, and a willingness to embrace whatever conditions the mountain offers.