Pike National Forest
Barr Trail #620

The Barr Trail is 13 miles long (one way) and is rated as more difficult (because it climbs to the summit of Pikes Peak over a long distance). Most folks take 2 days going up this trail, and 1 day coming back down. Because this is Pikes Peak, the Barr Trail sees heavy use in spring, summer and fall.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 6,720'
• High Point: 14,110'
• Trail ending: 14,110'

Access: The trailhead is off of Ruxton Avenue in Manitou Springs, right above the Cog Railroad Depot.

Notes: An average year sees about 60,000 people climbing the Barr Trail to the summit of Pikes Peak. This is a long, sustained grade. Most folks will stop about halfway up and camp for the night. It's a long hike and spending the night halfway allows you to acclimate a bit before making that final push to 14,000'. There is an open shelter available just below treeline, or you can spend the night at Barr Camp (campground or lodge, for a fee, of course).

Summer sees regular afternoon thunderstorms, but snow or sleet can happen any time of year at this altitude. The summit is usually about 40° colder than Colorado Springs.

USGS Maps: Manitou Springs, Pikes Peak