Pikes Peak
14,115 feet
America's Mountain. An epic 25-mile journey from Manitou Springs to the clouds.
Why Pikes Peak?
Pikes Peak is America's Mountain. This is the peak that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful" in 1893. At 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak via Barr Trail is the ultimate endurance challenge for beginner 14er hikers. With 7,400 feet of elevation gain over 25 miles round trip, this is the longest elevation gain of any 14er hike. Most hikers overnight at Barr Camp (6 miles up) to split the journey into two days. The summit features a visitor center with food and restrooms, and you can even take the Cog Railway down if your legs give out. This is not a hike. This is an epic journey, a rite of passage, and an unforgettable achievement that will stay with you forever.
Getting to the Trailhead
Barr Trailhead (Manitou Springs)
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 6,715 feet
- From Denver:
- 75 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
Directions
From Denver, take I-25 South to Colorado Springs (exit 141). Take US-24 West to Manitou Springs. Turn left on Ruxton Avenue. Barr Trail parking lot is at the end of Ruxton, near Cog Railway depot.
Road Access
The trailhead is accessed via paved streets in Manitou Springs. There are no access issues. This is the most accessible 14er trailhead in Colorado.
Parking Information
- There is a small paved lot in Manitou Springs. There are very limited spaces. Public parking is available in town with a 10-15 minute walk to the trailhead.
- Capacity: 10-15 vehicles at trailhead, overflow in town
- Parking is paid in Manitou Springs.
Pro Tip: If you want to attempt this in one day, start before 3:00 AM (yes, really). We highly suggest camping at Barr Camp and splitting this into a 2-day adventure. Reserve your spot months ahead at https://barrcamp.com.
The Route
Pikes Peak via Barr Trail
Class 1
This is an out-and-back route from downtown Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak. The trail is extremely well-maintained and heavily trafficked, making it impossible to lose. Most hikers overnight at Barr Camp at 6 miles, turning this into a 2-day adventure. Day hikers need to start at 2:00-3:00 AM with headlamps.
Long climb through pine forest. Steady switchbacks on well-maintained trail. Water at camp. Most hikers stay overnight here. Reservations required at https://barrcamp.com. This is only the halfway point.
Continue climbing through thinning forest. Trail steepens. Views begin opening up. A-Frame shelter before treeline for emergencies. Last reliable water.
Exposed alpine terrain. Rocky trail with stunning views. Wind increases significantly. Boulder field begins. Well-cairned route through talus.
Long slog through boulder field. Final switchbacks to summit house. Views expand to Kansas. Summit building with food and restrooms. Congratulations on this epic achievement.
Longest descent of any 14er. Pace yourself. Knee strain is real. Many take Cog Railway down (reserve ahead). Full day endeavor. Bring plenty of food and water. Celebrate completing an epic journey.
Descent
Most hikers retrace their steps down. The descent takes 6-8 hours. Many hikers take the Cog Railway down from the summit (must reserve ahead). The railway costs around $40-50 and is well worth it if your knees are screaming. If hiking down, pace yourself and take frequent breaks. This is a long, long descent.
What's Special About Pikes Peak?
Epic Achievement
This is not beginner-friendly by difficulty. It is beginner-friendly by accessibility and infrastructure. The trail is well-maintained, heavily traveled, and has emergency support. But make no mistake, this is an epic challenge.
Barr Camp Support
The ability to overnight at Barr Camp transforms this from an extreme day hike into a manageable 2-day adventure. Camp provides beds, meals, and a safe rest point.
Clear Trail
The Barr Trail is one of the most well-maintained trails in Colorado. Impossible to get lost. Clear signage and markers throughout.
Summit Amenities
The summit house provides food, water, restrooms, and shelter. You can refuel and rest before descending or taking the railway down.
Escape Route
If your legs give out, you can take the Cog Railway down from the summit. This safety net makes the climb less intimidating.
When to Go
Best Time of Year
July through early September
These months offer the safest conditions for beginners with minimal snow coverage and the most predictable weather patterns. Mid-July to mid-August is peak season with the best trail conditions.
Caution: Attempting this peak in June or late September significantly increases difficulty due to snow conditions. Winter attempts require mountaineering skills.
Time of Day
Day hikers need predawn starts to get back below treeline by early afternoon before thunderstorms build. Overnight hikers can split the journey into manageable sections with a comfortable camp break.
Sunrise Bonus: If overnight at Barr Camp, you will be above treeline during sunrise on Day 2. Watching the sun rise over the plains as you climb toward the summit is absolutely magical and worth the early wake-up.
Weather Considerations
You will be exposed above treeline for many hours. Afternoon thunderstorms are extremely dangerous on Pikes Peak. Day hikers must move fast. Overnight hikers should summit by 10:00-11:00 AM on Day 2. Always check weather forecasts and be prepared to turn around.
Pro Tips
Book Barr Camp Early
Barr Camp reservations open months in advance and fill immediately for summer weekends. Book the moment reservations open. This transforms an extreme challenge into a doable adventure.
Train for Distance
The elevation is manageable but the distance is brutal. Train with long hikes (10+ miles) carrying a loaded pack. Your feet and knees need to be conditioned for marathon distances.
Reserve Cog Railway
If planning to ride down, reserve your Cog Railway ticket in advance. Tickets sell out and cost around $40-50. Your knees will thank you.
Extra Food and Water
This is a full-day endeavor. Bring a water filter or purification tablets since there are streams along the trail where you can refill. Start with 2 liters and refill as needed rather than carrying 4 liters the entire way. Pack calorie-dense food. You will burn 5,000-7,000 calories on this hike. Eat constantly.
Mental Game
The distance is mentally exhausting. Break the hike into segments. Focus on reaching the next landmark, not the summit. Celebrate small victories.
Related Peaks
Mt. Elbert
Shorter high-altitude challenge
Mt. Elbert at 14,440 feet is Colorado's highest but only 9.75 miles. Good training for Pikes Peak distance.
Learn MoreSan Luis Peak
Similar marathon distance
San Luis Peak at 14,014 feet is 13.5 miles with gentler grades. Another endurance challenge with remote wilderness setting.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails - Pikes Peak via Barr Trail
Trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers
14ers.com - Pikes Peak
Detailed route description and trip reports
Barr Camp Reservations
Book overnight accommodations at Barr Camp (required months in advance)
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Reserve tickets to ride down from summit (saves your knees)
Mountain Weather Forecast
Hour-by-hour summit forecast
Ready to Summit Pikes Peak?
Prepare for your summit with our 13-week training program.