Pikes Peak - Barr Trail

Pikes Peak Summit via Barr Trail

The summit of Pikes Peak is 14,115 feet and when starting from the trailhead in Manitou Springs, the elevation gain will be approximately 6,100 feet.  The trail starts at the Barr Trail parking area, in Manitou Springs, by Hydro Street and begins with an immediate steep elevation gain.  Parking at the trailhead is $20.  Recommend starting this hike very early and planning to get to the summit no later than noon. The route passes Barr Camp at about mile 7 (10,200 feet) and continues past the A-Frame shelter at about mile 9 (11,500 feet).  There is a Visitor Center on the summit with indoor facilities for refreshment and historic information.  The summit of Pikes Peak can be very stormy and the weather changes quickly.  The summer months are the best time of year to plan summiting Pikes Peak, but winter climbs can be a rewarding challenge as well.  While Barr Trail is a popular tourist hike, it can still be a true mountaineering experience to reach the summit.  Equip yourself accordingly.  

Barr Camp via Barr Trail

Barr Camp is about midway along Barr Trail, run by a non-profit and staffed year round by caretakers who live on the property. The trail is well-maintained and well-used, but the elevation gain is significant. Cost of parking at the Barr Trail trailhead is $20 but Barr Camp provides vouchers that will give half of that refunded by the City of Manitou Springs.  Barr Camp offers snacks and drinks for sale.  Water is available, though hikers must filter/purify it themselves.  The route offers great views of Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs and intersects with the Manitou Incline.

Fremont Experimental Forest via Barr Trail

The Fremont Experimental Forest was a research station on Pikes Pike that operated 100 years ago.  From the Barr Trail trailhead the hike is about 3.5 miles one way.  Watch for a signed trail intersection that leads to the remains of the forest, about a quarter mile off of Barr Trail. The trail has 2,000 feet of elevation gain in this short stretch so it’s more than a mere stroll in the woods. There are unique tree species that were planted here 90 years ago or so. This part could also be strenuous if there is any significant snow on the ground.  Trail conditions can vary widely, depending on the season.  Equip yourself accordingly.

Mount Manitou - 8.2 miles - 2752 ft elevation gain

Rocky Mountain Peak - 8.8 miles - 2650 ft elevation gain

• Suitable Activities: Hiking, Snowshoeing
• Climbing Category: Intermediate Alpine Climb
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast
• Avalanche Terrain Rating Complex View avalanche forecast.

• High Point: 14,115 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Pikes Peak Ranger District (PSINF)
• Parking Permit Required: Other
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 15
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12