TECHNICAL TERRAIN & GETTING LOST

For the most part, Mt. Langley is not “technical”. However, there is one section I can recall where finding the right “route” is critical or else you could find yourself if “tricky” terrain. This is closer to the summit.

When you get closer to the Langley summit pay close attention and follow the giant Cairn stones so that you don’t get lost, and I highly recommend downloading our GPX file above so you can make sure your on the right path.

If you feel at all nervous or unsure of yourself in this terrain, there’s never any shame in turning around. It’s always better to play it safe in the mountains.

Pro Tip: I also recommend marking a “waypoint” at the top of New Army or Old Army Pass (whichever way you come up) on your GPS so that it’s easy to find on your way back down. The terrain is all rocky when you get to the top of the pass, and it can be tricky to find the entrance back down the pass.

THUNDERSTORMS

It’s super important to be aware of the weather when hiking Mt. Langley. On any 14er, you really want to be off the summit and heading down by the afternoon because of the risks of being caught in a thunderstorm above treeline.

Although the thunderstorms on Mt. Langley are not as bad as the ones you’ll find on Colorado 14ers, summitting before the afternoon is still a good rule of thumb to follow.

BEARS & OTHER WILDLIFE

Another thing to remember is that Mount Langley is in bear country. If you’re choosing to backpack Mt. Langley, you should know that you are required to use a bear canister to hold your food and anything else with a smell that might attract a bear.

While a bear canister is not required for day hikers, you must keep your pack with you at all times and make sure not to leave food out unattended. Also, definitely don’t leave food in your car at the trailhead – use a bear locker for anything you don’t bring with you on the trail.

Rangers ask that you DON’T bring bear spray with you. The black bears are pretty skittish, and bear spray is likely not needed here in this part of the US. This is what is stated by park rangers when you pick up your permit.

>> Check out more backpacking safety tips here

10. MOUNT LANGLEY PACKING LIST

The gear you carry will vary whether you’re hiking or backpacking the Mt Langley Trail. We have some EXCELLENT resources on both day hiking and backpacking gear so I highly recommend you check them out.