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The Barr Trail in Colorado Springs is a popular 12.6-mile (20.3 km) trail that climbs 7,300 feet (2,200 m) from Manitou Springs, Colorado, USA to the top of Pikes Peak. The trail is rated more difficult because of its long sustained grade rising to an especially high elevation.
Halfway up the trail is Barr Camp, which covers 2 acres (8,100 m2) and provides both overnight accommodations and food and drink for purchase. The total mileage to the summit is 12.6 miles, and is non-technical. It begins at 6,600 feet, and summits at 14,115 feet at the top of Pikes Peak. Those looking for a less arduous ascent might take the Cog Railway to Mount View (near Barr Camp) and cut a few miles off the total. The Mount View trail is not as steep, and requires only a one and a half mile traverse hike to Barr Camp.
Barr Trail, named after its builder, Fred Barr, was constructed from 1914 to 1921. The trail passes through three ecological life zones: montane, spruce-fir and alpine. Wildlife species common to those zones are frequently observed.
Pikes Peak has been a landmark since before recorded history. It was named for Zebulon Pike who noted the Peak in 1806 while exploring the area to the south. The first recorded climb to the summit was in 1820 by Dr. Edwin James of the Stephen H. Long Expedition. At present, over 60,000 visitors per year are estimated to climb the peak via the Barr Trail.
Access
1. Trailhead is off Ruxton Avenue, Manitou Springs Colorado above the Pikes Peak Cog Railroad Depot.
2. Some visitors ride to the summit by auto, bus, or Cog Railroad and hike down the trail.
Attractions and Considerations
Foot and horse trail. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Hiking or riding along the Cog Railroad right-of-way is prohibited.
Weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout the summer.
Special Considerations
The trail is rated more difficult because of its long sustained grade rising to an especially high elevation. Although an average hiker might complete the round trip in about 16 hours, those persons not used to hiking, especially at these altitudes, should not attempt the round trip in one day. Because of the long sustained grade, even a one way downhill hike from the summit is very tiring to the legs and feet when not conditioned.
Temperatures at the summit may be as much as 40 degrees cooler than at the bottom. Afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout the summer and snow or sleet may be encountered throughout the year.
Drinking Water
Drinking water is not readily available. Water from streams should be treated before use. Hikers are advised to carry an adequate supply.
Camping
An open shelter is located about nine miles up the trail just below timberline. Campfires may be built at this site.
Barr Camp
Barr Camp is another popular overnight camping or lodging spot operated under a special use permit with the US Forest Service. A charge is made for use of the facilities. http://www.barrcamp.com/
Barr Camp is a camp ground on Barr Trail. The camp is approximately 6.5 miles from the trail head in Manitou Springs. Elevation gain is 3,800 feet, and the camp elevation is 10,200 feet (3,109 meters). You can expect a 20 degree temperature difference between the bottom of the trail and Barr Camp. Expect changeable weather any time of the year.
Pikes Peak is an additional 6 miles from Barr Camp, and the trail climbs another 3,900 feet to the summit at over 14,000 feet (4,301 meters). Expect another 20 degree change in temperature and extreme weather changes such as high winds, thunderstorms, and snow.
Home - Your Remote Cabin on Barr Trail
- A pleasant rest stop on the trail for day use
- Overnight accommodations / meals for guests - by reservation
- Trail, weather, first aid, and safety information
- ...and more for you to discover
EMERGENCY - If you are concerned about a hiker or need assistance on the mountain please call 911 or the El Paso County Sheriff at 719-390-5555.
From 1979 to the present, the cabin has had full time year round caretakers.
Welcome! We are Neal & Teresa Taylor, and we have been here since May, 2005. Here we are in the kitchen getting your garlic bread ready! Stop in, say hello, and let us know if you have any questions or need any help! We look forward to your visit!
Barr Camp is a non-profit, community and volunteer supported organization, dedicated to providing aid and support to individuals and groups to enhance their Pikes Peak experience.
Barr Camp provides a year round base for rescue operations and offers potentially lifesaving advice and information to hikers on Pikes Peak.
Barr Camp is committed to protecting the environment and educating the public on outdoor wilderness ethics.
--Adopted in 2007 by the Barr Camp Board of Directors
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