Mount Kenya 70KM Two Routes Challenge: Old Moses – Lenana – Chogoria Gate – Lenana – Old Moses Experience
- BeyondForest
- 7 days ago
- 5 min read
1.)What Is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge
3.)First Summit of the Day from Old Moses
5.)The Second Summit of the Day
7.)The Reality of Ultra Endurance Hiking on Mount Kenya
8.)How Hard Is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge?
9.)Frequently Asked Questions – Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge (70KM)
What Is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge
The Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge is an ultra-endurance hiking challenge that involves covering approximately 70 kilometers in a single continuous effort across two major routes of Mount Kenya. The typical route follows Old Moses → Point Lenana → Chogoria Gate → Point Lenana → Old Moses, meaning hikers summit Point Lenana (4,985m) twice in one day. Unlike a standard day hike, this challenge tests extreme physical stamina, altitude tolerance, and mental resilience. It combines long-distance trekking, steep ascents, rocky alpine terrain, and high-altitude exposure, making it one of the toughest non-technical endurance feats on Mount Kenya.
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Route Overview – Old Moses to Lenana to Chogoria Gate
The route begins at Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp) along the Sirimon Route, with a pre-dawn start to allow enough time for the long endurance effort ahead. Hikers ascend gradually toward Shipton’s Camp, then push to the first summit at Point Lenana (4,985m). After summiting, the trail descends toward Mintos Hut and continues down the scenic valley toward Chogoria Gate, marking approximately 35 kilometers from the starting point. The return journey involves retracing the route back up to Lenana for a second summit before descending to Old Moses, completing the 70KM challenge.
First Summit of the Day from Old Moses
Mak Mansa in red jacket smiling, arms wide, seated on rocks at Lenana Peak, Mt. Kenya.
Reaching the first summit of the day at Point Lenana from Old Moses is an electrifying moment. After starting in the cold darkness before dawn, the steady climb through rocky alpine terrain tests both endurance and focus. Standing at 4,985 meters above sea level, the achievement feels deeply rewarding. The crisp mountain air, panoramic views, and sense of accomplishment make the early struggle completely worthwhile.
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Watching the sunrise at high altitude on Mount Kenya is an unforgettable experience. As the first rays of light break over the horizon, the rugged peaks of Batian and Nelion glow in golden hues. The cold alpine air feels sharp and pure, while the vast sky slowly shifts from deep blue to fiery orange. After hours of hiking in darkness, this moment brings renewed energy, clarity, and a powerful sense of accomplishment above the clouds.
The Second Summit of the Day
Mak Mansa in red hiking gear smiles in front of "KWS Mt. Kenya National Park"
The second summit of the day at Point Lenana feels completely different from the first. Fatigue has set in, legs are heavy, and the altitude feels harsher. Every step demands mental strength as much as physical endurance. Yet standing again at 4,985 meters above sea level brings a deep sense of resilience and pride.
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The Hardest Section – Mintos to Lenana Return
Mak Mansa in red jacket smiling at a foggy mountain peak
The stretch from Mintos Hut back up to Point Lenana is the most punishing part of the challenge. After descending toward Chogoria Gate, the return climb feels endless. Legs are fatigued, oxygen is thinner, and every rocky step demands focus. The altitude amplifies exhaustion, turning a steady ascent into a mental battle. Yet pushing through this section defines true endurance.
Ready to push beyond limits and explore the wild like never before?Travel with Mak Mansa and turn every hike into a legendary story.
The Reality of Ultra Endurance Hiking on Mount Kenya
Ultra endurance hiking on Mount Kenya goes far beyond physical strength. At altitudes approaching 4,985 meters, the thin air slows every step, and even simple movements demand effort. Fatigue accumulates quickly, especially during long-distance challenges like the 2 Routes or 3 Routes attempts. Sleep deprivation, dehydration, and changing alpine weather can intensify the struggle. Rocky terrain tests balance, while extended hours on your feet strain muscles and joints. Mental resilience becomes the deciding factor — the ability to stay focused, manage discomfort, and keep moving despite exhaustion is what truly defines ultra endurance at high altitude.
How Hard Is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge?
Mak Mansa in red jacket with arms outstretched, smiling on a rocky mountain at sunrise.
The Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge is extremely demanding and designed for experienced, high-endurance hikers. Covering roughly 70 kilometers with two ascents to Point Lenana (4,985m), it combines long-distance trekking with high-altitude exposure. The challenge is not technical, but the cumulative fatigue, rocky terrain, and thin air make it physically and mentally exhausting.
Frequently Asked Questions – Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge (70KM)
The Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge is an ultra endurance hike covering approximately 70KM in one continuous effort. It typically follows the route: Old Moses → Point Lenana → Chogoria Gate → Point Lenana → Old Moses, summiting twice in a single day.
How far is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge?
The total distance is approximately 70 kilometers, depending on tracking variation. The halfway point is usually at Chogoria Gate (about 35KM from Old Moses) before ascending back to Lenana.
How long does it take to complete the 2 Routes Challenge?
Completion time varies based on fitness and weather conditions, but most strong hikers take 16–22 hours. Elite endurance hikers may finish faster, while others may require longer due to altitude fatigue.
How difficult is the Mount Kenya 2 Routes Challenge?
This challenge is considered extremely difficult. It involves high altitude (up to 4,985m), long-distance endurance, steep ascents, rocky terrain, and significant elevation gain. It requires excellent cardiovascular fitness and mental resilience.
Yes. The route involves summiting Point Lenana once on the ascent from Old Moses and again when returning from Chogoria Gate before descending back to Old Moses.
What is the elevation gain during the 2 Routes Challenge?
The hike involves substantial cumulative elevation gain, including two ascents to 4,985 meters at Point Lenana. The altitude significantly increases physical strain.
Yes. While a Day Dash (one route) is already demanding, the 2 Routes Challenge doubles the distance and includes a second summit, making it significantly more exhausting.
Can beginners attempt the 2 Routes Challenge?
No. This challenge is recommended only for experienced high-altitude hikers with strong endurance training and prior Mount Kenya experience.
What should you prepare for before attempting 2 Routes?
Proper sleep before the hike
Hydration and electrolytes
Energy-dense nutrition
Headlamp for night hiking
Strong mental preparation
Lack of preparation can severely affect performance at altitude.
What is the biggest challenge during the 2 Routes hike?
The biggest challenges are fatigue, altitude effects, and the long return ascent to Lenana after Chogoria Gate. Mental strength becomes just as important as physical fitness.
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