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The ascent of Pikes Peak via Barr Trail is a 26-mile overnight adventure with a 7400' elevation gain. How to get there: Take I-25 south to Colorado Springs, exit at US 24 west to Manitou Springs. Follow the signs to the Mt. Manitou Incline Railway Depot, 200 feet past the depot is the trailhead parking lot. The trail: From the trailhead follow the Barr Trail for seven miles to Barr Camp, which is at 10,500' elevation. There is an old log cabin, built in 1918, near which you may camp, untreated water is available. Visit the cabin and have a hot drink; you furnish the ingredients, hot water is free. At Barr Camp, plan on leaving a donation for the camp and trail maintenance. Hike to the top of Pikes Peak from Barr Camp using a day pack containing the essentials; leave your tents and backpacking gear at Barr Camp. Climb to the top early (0600) the next morning. It’s approximately six miles from the summit house. Just below the timberline, you will reach an A-frame shelter about 60 yards off the trail, untreated water is available. The trail is relatively well marked; however, watch your footing and remain on the trail. Make a brief stop at the Summit House for souvenirs, there is a snack bar for those who wish to indulge. Since you have a 13-mile return trip, don’t overstay but do take time to enjoy the view. Return to Barr Camp via the same trail. You may cut out the last 3 miles by cutting across from the Barr Trail to the Mt. Manitou Incline Railway. Cost is $3.00 per person plus $.50 for backpacks. Notes: Watch the weather, in one 24-hour period in late July, a troop hiked through rain, snow, sleet, and hail. It was a great trip. BE REPARED.
Created on: 2024-09-08 10:48:03