Hiking Pikes Peak, The Highest Mountain In Colorado Springs

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Pikes Peak is America’s Mountain

Are you ready to climb the highest mountain in Colorado Springs? Then let's go! We'll show you how to prepare for your journey up Pikes Peak.

The Pikes Peak Hike

The 14,115 ft. summit of Pikes Peak is located in Colorado Springs, CO. It was first climbed by Edwin James on July 14th, 1820. Three men were sent on this military expedition in hopes of expanding the US borders. James’ trail notes are available to read in the Library of Congress.

Did you know you can also drive to the top of Pikes Peak on a paved highway? Maybe riding on the world’s highest cog railway is more your speed. You can even bike down this famous fourteener.

But first, we’re here to tell you how to hike Pikes Peak. After that, we'll unveil thrilling alternatives, including a unique route beloved by locals, guaranteed to be anything but average!

Hiking along one of PIkes Peak trails

Start with a good pair of shoes

You need to start with a good pair of hiking boots. They should fit well and provide support for your feet. If you're going to hike more than an hour, make sure you wear comfortable socks. We are partial to Smartwool socks (nope, the wool is not scratchy at all!) for comfortable, cozy feet no matter the season we are on a Pikes Peak hike.

If you’re unsure where to even start with the whole hiking shoe situation, head to our shoe post. We tell you what to look for, how to fit the right shoe, what we love and how often to switch those babies out!

Trekking Poles

Melody’s daughter changed her mind about trekking poles. Take a listen.

Trekking poles aren’t just for old people! Let’s debunk that theory right now.

When Melody and her daughter backpacked Four Pass Loop this past summer, her daughter was suspicious of bringing trekking poles along. That is until day one, 5 miles into hiking Four Pass Loop. Hear about her new respect for trekking poles.

Trekking poles do a whole lot more than look cool. They collapse for easy daypack storage, quickly making them accessible for balance while crossing water. Or use as a weapon to scare away snakes.

Keep the puffy hand syndrome at bay and bulk up those biceps. Using trekking poles gives the hiker a full body workout. Overall, the trekking pole is a handy dandy tool for all ages.

Altitude

How to hike Pikes Peak is a pretty simple recipe:

  • Put on your gear

  • Load up your daypack

  • Start walking

BUT….

Colorado’s altitude can be challenging in many ways, and the elevation and strong sunshine will take a toll if you’re not careful. If your goal is summiting Pikes Peak from a lower elevation, give yourself a day or two before you start the hike. Consider a shorter acclimating hike to see how you feel. There are several short and easy hikes near Manitou Springs.

Give yourself time to rest here and there on your Pikes Peak hike and drink lots of water. Pay attention to what your body is telling you and tell your hiking buddies if you’re not feeling well. Bring plenty of water

You will also need to bring some additional supplies with you. These include a first aid kit, flashlight, map, compass, snacks, and more.

Food

This is the best part of the hike right? Pack things that sound good - many people find longer hikes create some weird taste issues.

Altitude Snack Guidelines:

  • Pack something salty and something sweet

  • Bring a few high protein treats like jerky or meat sticks

  • Carry some electrolyte tablets (we’re big fans of NUUN)

  • Trail mix with dried apricots and raisins helps with muscle cramping

  • FUN FREEBIE! Peel an orange and add it to your water bottle. You’ll have a yummy snack when you’ve drank all your water (plus it makes the water taste extra great).

Depending on your speed and plans to overnight at Barr Camp determines how much food and water to bring. We tend to overpack snacks. However we practice a highly regarded

CoHH MANTRA: You can never have enough food.

Osprey’s Sirrus 24L is perfect for a day hiking Pikes Peak

Pack light

Make sure you pack only what you absolutely need. Leave behind anything that isn't essential. This includes extra clothing, food, water, sunscreen, and other items.

Keep in mind essential hiking gear doesn’t take too much room and could save your life.

Hiking any fourteener requires a decent backpack. This is one time you want to keep Dora the Explorer at home. Your body will be sore after this hike. Don’t make it worse by using your child’s school daypack.

NOTE! We carry the Sirrus 24L Daypack on all our hikes. It is efficient in storage with a nice wide hip belt, making it easy to fit and access essential hiking gear (read SNACKS) on any Colorado hiking trail.

Osprey has a handy dandy packfinder tool. Answer a few questions and BAM, you’ll know exactly what type of daypack is made for your body.

Osprey has incredible customer service. They repair and replace with their lifetime warranty. This is one product you get a bang for your buck!

Be prepared for weather changes

Weather changes can affect your hike. If you're hiking during the summer months, you should expect hot temperatures and high humidity. During winter months, you might encounter snow and cold temperatures. It's important to pack appropriate clothing for each season.

Check the weather BEFORE you hike. Find out when thunderstorms are predicted to roll in. Hiking on exposed trail is scary and life threatening.

If you do get caught in lightning, get to treeline as fast as possible!

Know where you're going

You need to know what you're doing before you start climbing. Make sure you understand the trail, elevation gain, weather conditions, and other details. Also, make sure you have enough water and food with you.

Be realistic

Anytime you prepare for hiking hard routes in the mountains, it is crucial to do so with a realistic mindset.

If hiking Pikes Peak seems a bit out of reach this visit, enjoy a trip to the summit on the Cog Railroad or Pikes Peak Highway.

Everyone on top gets to enjoy the same sweeping Rocky Mountain panorama, no matter how they got there!

Related Links:

How to Get to Pikes Peak

Directions vary depending on what route you take hiking Pikes Peak.

Barr Trail:

Get on I-25 S. Take US 24W to Serpentine Dr in Manitou Springs. Continue on Serpentine Dr. Take Manitou Ave and Ruxton Ave to Hydro Street. Parking lot is on right side past Cog Railroad.

Crags Trail:

Get on I-25 S. Follow 125 S to US 24W. Continue to CO-67 S in Divide. Continue on CO-67S to Teller Co Rd 62. Turn left onto CO-67 S. Turn left on Teller Co Rd 62. Trailhead will be on the left.

Devil’s Playground:

Note! Pikes Peak Road is closed in winter. Reservations required!

I-25 S to US-24 W to Fountain Ave in Cascade- Chipita Park. Follow Pikes Peak Hwy and Pikes Peak Toll road to your destination in Teller County. Turn left onto Fountain Ave. Slight left onto Pikes Peak Hwy. Pikes Peak Hwy becomes Pikes Peak Toll Road (CLOSED in winter). Destination will be on the left.

COHH TIP! Make sure you tell the attendant if you’re not driving all the way to the top of Pikes Peak; your entrance fee will be much cheaper. Driving Pikes Peak Hwy requires a reservation.

One of many Pikes Peak trails to the summit

Different Routes to Reach Pikes Peak

There are three main trails for hiking Pikes Peak: Barr Trail, Devil’s Playground and the Crags. Each of these Pikes Peak trails offer different views and distances. The most famous, Barr Trail, is raced every year for the Pikes Peak Marathon and Ascent.

How to hike Pikes Peak depends on what type of day you want to experience and how much time you have.

Take Barr Trail for a long meandering trek up America’s mountain. If time is an issue but you want to knock out this 14er, hike Devil’s Playground trail. Crags trail is perfect for a more solitary experience.

Hiking Pikes Peak via Barr Trail - the path to A Frame

Barr Trail

Well marked sign at Barr Trail parking lot

Mileage 25 miles RT Elevation gain 7,434 ft. Route type Out & back

Starting at Barr Trailhead, make a quick stop at one of two flushable toilets before beginning. Don’t forget to pay for parking and put your parking pass ($10/day) on your car’s dashboard.

Note! There is regular security monitoring of this parking lot so your car is relatively safe. Make sure to keep valuables out of sight and lock up before hitting the trail. (Psst…put your car key in a safe spot in your daypack.)

Boys taking a break before the final 2 mile push to Pikes Peak Summit

This Pikes Peak hike has plenty of switchbacks. Trekking poles come in handy navigating the rocky terrain. Expect elevation gains of almost 4,000’ in the first 6 miles of this trail.

Aside from the first 2 miles and last 3 miles of the trail, you’ll be in shade for the majority of this hike. Beautiful tall pine trees, scrub oak and rock formations line the trail as you wind up the mountain.

There are a few creeks for water fill ups depending on what season you’re hiking Pikes Peak. Rather than relying on these water sources, carry at least 4 liters of water.

The famous 16 Golden Stairs

A variety of views span the almost 13 mile trail. For much of this Pikes Peak hike, hiking will be among trees and scrub oak with smatterings of bright sun. Don’t forget sunscreen. You’ll be fooled into thinking you’re well shaded. Colorado’s high altitude sun gives a mean sunburn even when cloudy!

Past the Fremont Experimental Forest sign, stay to the right on the single track trail. Do not take the wide road if summitting is the goal. That road does NOT continue to the summit.

Around mile 8 is Barr Camp. With camping and bunking options, this a great spot to take off the backpack and relax for the day, choosing to hike to the summit the next day. (See section below on Barr camp reservations, food and accommodations.)

However, if this is a day hike for you, filter some water, use Barr Camp’s compost toilets and tackle the remaining 5 miles to summit.

Note! Keep in mind these last 5 miles will be much slower than the first 8. Hiking Pikes Peak starts around 6,700’, topping out at 14,115’ at the summit.

Melody’s son hanging out in snow (in early August) near Pikes peak summit

Heading out from Barr Camp, stay on the well marked trail to A Frame, an unmanned, first-come, first-served, six-man shelter at 12,098’.

Reapply sunscreen and start trekking. These last three miles are the hardest - the terrain is rocky, the trail is steep and the air is thin.

There are some pretty famous sights in the last three miles of the hike. Look for the Bottomless Pit and Pikes Peak Summit sign - that means only 2 miles to go!

Shortly after that sign, begin hiking over the Cirque, probably one harder parts of hiking Pikes Peak. Stay strong and continue to the 16 Golden Stairs. Whoever named it stairs was not nice! It’s 16 switchbacks not actual stairs.

Keep your chin up and breath. The end is in sight. Get to the top, head into the new Summit House and grab a high altitude donut. Use the super clean bathrooms, take a little tour and meet up with your ride down.

Summit House at Pikes Peak Summit

OR turn around and start hiking down. If you’ve not arranged for a ride down, make sure to begin the trek down well before storms move in around 2 pm.

CoHH Tip! Use the Garmin Inreach Mini to keep in correspondence with your ride. Rangers check times up top. During peak season (July/August), cars are only allowed 2 hours at summit. Cell phone service is spotty at best for most of the Pikes Peak hike. If you get stuck up top, you will be charged for the ride down. See note below for Trail Down Options.

For a detailed summary of Barr Trail, check out famous Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon winner, Matt Carpenter’s detailed account of each part of the trail.

Taking a break on one of Pikes Peak trails: Barr Trail

Trail Pros

  • Well-marked trail

  • Shade for most of the mileage, top 3 miles are exposed

  • Barr Camp

Trail Downsides

  • Long hike with tons of elevation gains *Takes 6-10 hours to summit. Many do this hike in two days.

  • First third of Barr Trail has steady stream of Manitou Incline traffic. Watch out for runners!

  • One of a few summit drive options - expect cars and crowds up top.

  • Lightning storms are almost daily in the summer. Get off the mountain’s summit before noon.

  • Paid Parking *Budget $10/day for TH parking.

Taking a moment to admire the view on Crags Trail

Crags Trail

Mileage: 14.5 mi. Elevation gain: 4,402 ft. Route type: Out & back

Start this Pikes Peak trail near Divide, Colorado. It’s well shaded for most of the hike, among pine trees.

Hiking Crags Trail in fall on Pikes Peak

If an early start to hike this fourteener is your jam, consider camping at the Crags Campground. First come, first served with 17 camping spots, the Crags Trail is literally right next to the campground. This makes it ideal for completing your Pikes Peak hike before noon.

Dispersed camping is allowed. Make sure to pitch tents at least 300’ from any water source.

CoHH Tip! Stay two nights in this campground and explore many of the nearby trails. Potable Water and Pit Toilets on site but no trash service.

Crags Trail starts on Forest Service Road 383. Expect the first 1/2 mile of the trail to be tricky with a steady uphill incline. Same goes for the last 1/2 mile right before the Crags.

Hike a short ways to Fourmile Creek, turning right to hike trail #664A. A bridge crossing here makes this easily recongizable. Continue through the forest, making several switchbacks until treeline.

Enjoy a meandering hike through meadows filled with wildflowers in July and August. Fall brings brilliant colors throughout the lower half of this hike.

Look to the west for unobstructed views. The 3/4 mile before Devil’s Playground is a steep straight climb up the saddle, reaching 12,750 feet.

Taking a break on Crags Trail hiking Pikes Peak

Cross Pikes Peak Highway, staying on the left side of the road for around 2 miles. Begin final ascent up to the large boulder field and on to the summit.

Cairns mark the way through the maze of rocks

Note! This first half of this hike is less traveled making wildlife sightings common.

Practice the thumb rule. If your thumb cannot cover the animal, you are too close. Back off. Bring bear spray, make noise and keep an attentive ear out.

Trail Pros

  • Shorter and with less elevation gain

  • Better views with the Continental Divide to the west

  • Much less crowded trail

Trail Downsides

  • Road to trailhead is rough, AWD and 4WD is preferred to get there

  • More wildlife so be attentive

Rocky terrain throughout hike on Devils Playground route.

Devil’s Playground Trail

Mileage: 5.5 mi Elevation gain: 1,348 ft. Route type: Out & back

The three made it quickly to the top of Pikes Peak via Devil’s Playground Trail.

Melody and Tanya’s eldest kids tackled hiking Pikes Peak via Devil’s Playground Trail one early morning. With a friend in tow, they hopped on Pikes Peak Highway and sped up the road.

This is the shortest trail to Pikes Peak’s summit, coming in just under 6 miles. They started around 5 am and called us from the top at 9 am. Granted they are athletes with quick feet, this still is the easiest of the three main Pikes Peak trails to hike.

Melody’s daughter Caroline gave her opinion below on this particular trail. Here you go, in young adult terms, the good, bad and ugly of hiking Pikes Peak via Devil’s Playground Trail.

Note! Instead of hiking from Crags Trail, drive Pikes Peak Highway until you reach Devil’s Playground. All the trail details starting at Devil’s Playground from above pertain to this hike.

Trail Pros

  • A much faster way to get to the top without having to do Barr Trail

  • Wish we had started at devil’s playground because that’s more scenic (they drove up a bit further to knock off some time)

Trail Downsides

  • Most of the hike is along the highway so there are lots of cars.

  • Exposed to the sun the whole time

In Her Opinion: “I would not choose to do it that way again. It probably would have been better to start at Crags Trail but even then I really didn’t enjoy hiking along the highway.”

We have not done this particular trail so cannot speak to Melody’s daughter’s opinion.

If you have time, consider hiking Barr Trail and Crags Trail. They are longer with greater elevation to tackle. However, stunning views make these trails, in our opinion, the better options to hike Pikes Peak.

Manitou Incline to Barr Trail *The Local’s Secret Path

Mileage: Depends - around 13 miles to summit Elevation gain: 7,611 feet Route type: Out & Back or Up the Incline, down Barr Trail

Locals adore the Manitou Incline, a global magnet for hikers tackling its challenging one-mile ascent on ancient railroad ties. Now, if you're feeling like a true hiking beast, extend the adventure by conquering the additional 10 miles to reach the summit of Pikes Peak – that's no small feat, my friend!

Beginning your Pikes Peak Mountain journey via the Manitou Incline is no walk in the park! Covering roughly 0.88 miles, brace yourself for a 2,011-foot elevation gain. Once you hit the connector Barr Trail, be prepared for another 5,600 vertical feet to reach the Pikes Peak Summit. It's a formidable challenge, reserved for the most determined hikers out there!

Melody, gearing up for the Pikes Peak Ascent, tackled this route twice. It pushed her to the limit, but oh, the views of Pikes Peak are absolutely worth it!

If you're considering the Manitou Incline, we've got the lowdown in a dedicated post. Be ready for some strategic planning, reservations, and a reliable drop-off buddy, as overnight parking is a no-go at the Manitou Incline lots.

Take a rest break at the cement foundation before connecting to Barr Trail

DIRECTIONS TO CONNECT TO BARR TRAIL:

Once you’ve summited the Manitou Incline, plan on climbing a little higher over the old building foundation. You'll see a nice smooth flat path, don't take it as it dead ends. About 40 yards to the right of the path that dead ends, look for a steep climb marked by a post with no sign. This path looks washed out through the middle. That’s your trail! This path is hidden behind a pine tree when you are standing on the old foundation.

TRAIL PROS:

  • Bragging rights for years. Hiking Pikes Peak Mountain is made much harder with this beginning first mile

  • A fun and local way to explore Pikes Peak like a local

  • Cut off 2 miles one way - You’ll start Barr Trail around mile 3 at the turn off.

TRAIL Downsides:

  • Starting the Pikes Peak hike with a large pack up a steep route = CHALLENGING

  • No extra time is gained by this route.

Other Hiking Trails on Pikes Peak Mountain

Elk Park Trail towards Pikes Peak summit

Elk Park Trail

Mileage: 23.5 miles RT Elevation gain: 5,931 ft Route type: Out & back

Trailhead sign at parking lot of Elk Park

Similar to Devil’s Playground trail, Elk Park trail starts halfway up Pikes Peak off the Pikes Peak Highway. NOTE! Reservations are required to access this road.

Elk Park trail, one of the many Pikes Peak trails to summit the mountain is a multi use trail, heavy on the biker usage. Traverse across several hills and head down the first 2ish miles. Keep in mind that the return will be uphill for the those last 2 miles.

friendly bikers headed up PIkes Peak via Elk Park trail

Getting to Elk Park Trailhead is hair raising. As you round a curve to the trailhead, you’ll see a small gate on the side of the mountain. It will feel as if the car is headed over a cliff, never to be seen again.

Stay true to the map directions and we assure you, there is ample parking and space for your car and several others.

Park at the top of the road on the hill. There is a helipad for first responders on this section.

The trail is well marked. At the trail’s only junction, Oil Creek and Barr Trail, turn right and hike the 5 1/2 mile hike to Barr Camp. You’ll continue to A Frame and summit from Barr Camp.

*For a detailed description of the last 3 miles to summit, see the above notes from Barr Trail.

Keep in mind sharing trails with mountain bikers means you have priority. However, this particular trail, especially on weekends, is filled with bikers. They have a much harder time stopping and pulling aside vs. the hiker taking a few steps to the right.

pocketpal maps for pikes peak area

Pocketpal Maps for Pikes Peak Area

For even more remote trails that meet up with Barr Trail, check out the Pocket Pals map of Pikes Peak. These waterproof, tear resistant maps show many trails on the mountain, including way points and other helpful hiking tips.

Love a long, challenging hike? Consider summiting Mount Rosa, which offers sweeping views from 11,533 feet, including seeing Pikes Peak.

PocketPals Pikes Peak series of maps (#5,6,7,8,9) have extensive trails marked Pikes Peak. For a comprehensive trails in one map deal, pick up the Pikes Peak 14er Climbing and Hiking Map (trails used to summit Pikes Peak)

PROMO CODE: “10%OFF” gets you 10% off all maps. Prices vary but average $7–$10/map including download.

Ready to head up the final 5 miles to Pikes Peak Summit

Overnight Camping at Barr Camp

When Melody’s kids were young, the hike up Pikes Peak was a milestone event. Taking two days, we’d grab breakfast and trek up to Barr Camp for the night.

The girls loved their pancakes and hot chocolate at Barr camp.

Up early the next day, the goal was summit Pikes Peak by 10 am, high fiving and celebrating with the world’s highest donuts of course!

A camp host manages Barr Camp, a campus 8 miles up Barr Trail. The year Melody took her daughter, our host had just completed his eighth year of running Leadville 100. We were delighted by tales of the race and of course, asked to see the famous belt buckles.

Hikers have two main options for overnighting on the peak; camping or staying at Barr Camp bunkhouse. Make sure to bring a comfortable and warm sleeping bag if camping. Even in the summer, sleeping on a mountain can get downright chilly. Consider these 5 features to look for in a sleeping bag to stay light in your pack but cozy while you sleep.

NOTE! You need reservations with both options, even in winter.

Bunk beds at the Barr Camp cabin were spacious and roomy.

keep these things in mind:

  • Barr Camp is approximately 6 1/2 miles up Barr Trail starting from Manitou Springs

  • Indoor “glamping” options: bunkhouse, lean to, upper cabin (price per night ranges from $15-$35)

  • Camping anywhere in the National Forest is free. Please practice Leave No Trace principles.

  • If you stay at Barr Camp, partake in their scrumptious pancake breakfast (included in reservation) and yummy spaghetti dinner (additional price)

  • Clean composting toilets

NOTE! The Barr Camp website has extensive details regarding reservations, amenities, routes to hike and options for food.

Alternative Ways to Get Up and Down Pikes Peak

The Cog waiting at the top of Pikes Peak.

Hike Up, Drive down

Most hikers take this approach if roundrip is not part of the hiking plan. If you decide to hike round trip, make sure to plan a very early start to avoid lightning. Early morning means before 4 am if possible. Get a good headlamp, wear layers, pack your daypack and start hiking.

Hikers taking a rest break at the top section of Pikes Peak

A stunning sunrise will be reward enough for the early hour. Well, an enough time to throw back a great ale in Manitou Springs post hike.

Pikes Peak Summit mountain views

If that seems too daunting, consider the most common option - arrange a ride down.

Choosing Devil’s Playground Trail is the only option that allows a quick roundtrip not dependent on a ride. Otherwise, plan on bribing a friend or family member to come and get you at the top.

Keep in mind that during summer months cars are allowed 2 hours maximum at summit. Hike with a satellite device, the Garmin inReach Mini works great, so you can coordinate your ride. How long it takes to drive to the top of Pikes Peak depends on the comfort level of the driver. Average driver takes around 90 minutes.

Hitch a ride at your own risk.

We had front row seats to this comical turn of events on the Cog railroad.

Cog Up Pikes Peak and Back Down

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway underwent a multi million dollar renovation, reopening May 2021. Touted as the world’s highest cog railroad, riding the Cog is a wonderful way to get to Pikes Peak summit without too much huffing and puffing.

Viewing stage from Pikes Peak summit

Tickets are pricey (starting just under $60) and go quickly in summer months. Book your trip at least 4 months out to ensure seats together. Make reservations here for the Cog.

CoHH Tip! When reserving Cog seats, pick the three side seats (left side of train as you face forward) vs. the two seat side. The best picture taking views are on the left side as you head up the mountain.

A conductor shares history of the area along the ride. Plan on 45 minutes at the Summit before heading down the Cog.

Layers and water are great for altitude up top. Expect lightheadedness and shortness of breath.

Bike Pikes Peak with Broadmoor Outfitters

Cog Up Bike Down Pikes Peak ADventure

Preparing to bike down Pikes Peak

Broadmoor Outfitters provides an exciting twist on tackling this mountain. Plan this unique day activity, taking the Cog Railway up the mountain and biking down Pikes Peak Highway.

We had a chance to go on this Cog Up Bike Down adventure with our teens. Boy was it a fun, albeit hair-raising experience.

This All Day Adventure includes tickets up the Cog Railway. We had front row seats up the mountain. Two mountain goats caused quite the ruckas when they refused to get off the train tracks. No matter how hard the conductor blew her horn, they were not budging.

Nature always wins right?

Take this thrilling ride - bike Pikes Peak!

Eventually we got to the top, toured the new Summit House and then geared up for our bike down Pikes Peak.

Broadmoor Outfitters provides all your safety gear, from form fitting helmets to elbow and knee pads. Each biker is equipped with a bike, backpack loaded with snacks and water along with a bright neon safety vest.

As we biked down Pikes Peak Highway, a guide remained in front, maintaining the route and speed. A van followed behind, ensuring no one passed our group as we wound down the mountain.

What a memorable experience to see this fourteener from a different angle. Tanya’s video of some of the bike ride down Pikes Peak gives you a taste of the adrenaline filled moments.

Hike Up, Ski Down

We’ve heard the skiing on Pikes Peak is pretty fun. PocketPals Maps has 6 backcountry ski lines marked in the Pikes Peak map. If you’re curious, check out Mountain Jackpot News description of each of the below routes. They include:

  • The Bowl (aka Big Blue) - intermediate/difficult

  • The Chimney - difficult

  • Cornice Bowl - intermediate

  • Little Italy - difficult

  • Old PIkes Peak Ski Area - intermediate

  • Y Couloir Middle Fork - difficult

Hike Up, Cog Down

Cog Railroad in Manitou Springs, CO

Buy a one way ticket on The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Tickets are available for purchase with the conductor of the train if there is room available.

To reserve your one way ticket ahead of time, call 719-685-5401.

Note! Read the print above - IF ROOM AVAILABLE. In the busy tourist summer months, when most people want to take a Pikes Peak hike, the train is full.

Reserving a seat ahead of time is your best bet for a ride down.

Explore Pikes Peak on Water

Add an extra day and SUP or fish Pikes Peak reservoirs while resting those tired hiking legs.

The North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak has three lakes for stand up paddling — all for the price of one!

Explore coves and enjoy the views above 9,200’ while paddleboarding in Colorado Springs. Head up early and spend the day on these three cold water reservoirs along Pikes Peak Highway:

  1. North Catamount Reservoir

  2. South Catamount Reservoir

  3. Crystal Creek Reservoir*

CoHH TIP: Driving Pikes Peak Hwy requires a reservation.

In addition to launching your SUP in Colorado Springs, you can fish here for Brook, Brown, Cutbow, Cutthroat, Lake and Rainbow trout.  Enthusiasts test their fly-fishing skills at secluded North Catamount Reservoir where only flies and lures are allowed. 

Max out your fun by fishing from your paddleboard. The Isle Megaladon is big enough for 3-4 persons, or you and your dog(s) AND all of your gear, making it dynamite to fish from.

Best Time to Go

Hiking Pikes Peak is a year round activity.

Summiting Pikes Peak is best done between June-October. As with all other 14ers, there is heavy snow throughout the winter and spring. This makes it challenging to see the trail much less hike it.

Most hikers plan hiking Pikes Peak in summer months. The same goes for biking down Pikes Peak.

Note! Pikes Peak Highway is closed throughout winter.

The Manitou Incline, on Pikes Peak, is open year round. Reservations are required, booking out monthly.

There is a connector trail from the Incline to Barr Trail. The bottom third of Barr Trail is passable year round. As you climb higher on the mountain, there is more snow in the winter months.

Bring snowshoes and spikes and most importantly, check the forecast.

If backcountry skiing Pikes Peak sounds fun, invest in an avalanche course. Essential backpacking gear and emergency satellite communication is important.

Colorado Fourteeners Near Me

South of Colorado Springs

The largest collection of Colorado fourteeners are in Buena Vista/Chaffee County. About a 2 hour drive from Colorado Springs, this group of mountains are popular spots for hikers to bag fourteeners.

Mt. Yale (14,199’), Mt. Princeton (14,196’), and Mt. Harvard (14,423’) are among 15 of the Sawatch Range Fourteener mountains. Each mountain is ranked by class (1-4) depending on elevation, terrain, and route finding.

Mt Princeton near Buena Vista, CO

Mt. Princeton is closest to town (15 minute drive from Buena Vista), ranked Class 2. It’s a relatively easy hike, done in a day.

Mount Antero (14,230’) is the only Fourteener in the area with a 4WD road almost to the summit. Similar to Pikes Peak’s Devil’s Playground trail, this Fourteener is easy to summit if your vehicle makes the jeep road up to the trailhead.

Other Colorado Fourteeners in the Sawatch Range require technical climbing and potential overnight camping.

For a serious day of hiking (advanced hikers only please!), combine Mount Shavano and Tabeguache Peak. Be prepared to use a compass and map on these routes.

North of Colorado Springs

Mt Bierstadt (14,060’) is about an hour and 15 minute drive from Denver. Easy to access and hike, this is a very popular trail. Expect large amounts of people at the trailhead and on the hike.

Mt Bierstadt at sunrise

Gray’s Peak (14,278’) is an hour and 20 minutes from Denver, starting at the Guanella Pass Trailhead. As popular as Bierstadt, you can add on Torrey’s Peak (14,267’) for a double bag. The trailhead road is rough - consider driving a 4WD to make it safely.

Nearby Mt Evans (14,265’) has a road all the way to the summit, like Pikes Peak. HIke from from Summit Lake Park, tracking along the western ridge.

With 53 Fourteeners to choose, the options are nearly endless.

Note! Many of these easier fourteeners require early mornings for parking and summiting. Turn the Fourteener hiking experience into a weekend of fun! Camping near trailheads, dispersed or in established campgrounds and be up and ready to hike for sunrise.

Make it a true adventure and rent a RV or camper van. Here’s your chance to see if that van life is as fun as it Instagram makes it seem.

Now, whenever we plan an outdoorsy adventure trip, we always consider renting an RV in Colorado, or wherever we’re going.

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Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is quickly overtaking Denver to become the largest city in Colorado. Rapid growth has put a crunch on buying a home in Colorado Springs. However, as visitors, there are plenty of neighborhoods to stay in.

Our favorite way to travel (aside from renting super cool RVs and camping) is the vacation rental. With families who need space and moms who need a kitchen, VRBO affords us all the luxuries of high end lodging at reasonable prices.

Downtown

The heart of Colorado Springs spreads across a few main streets - from Cascade to Weber. Museums, restaurants, shopping and close proximity to Manitou Springs makes this area the ideal place to stay when hiking Pikes Peak.

Stay in an adorable Colorado Springs bungalow, within walking distance of downtown Colorado Springs. Or hang out in a modern downtown grotto in the heart of the city. The world is your oyster with so many downtown options to choose.

Relax in this spacious backyard near Garden of the Gods

MIDTOWN - Garden of the Gods

If the plan is to explore more of Colorado Springs after hiking Pikes Peak, staying near Garden of the Gods affords you easy access to this stunning landmark.

Just off I-25, this area is home to UCCS (University of Colorado, Colorado Springs), the fastest growing campus of the UC schools. Park near University Village and take the short hike up Pulpit Rock, watching the sunrise (or sunset).

This is a great place in the city to snag unobstructed views of Pikes Peak.

Grab groceries at Trader Joes and stock up on wine with their newly opened wine store. Or skip cooking all together and eat at one of several local restaurants nearby.

Colorado cozy bungalow minutes from Garden of the Gods

Relax in a 7 bedroom home, the perfect home base for a week’s visit. Hike Pikes Peak trails, explore Garden of the Gods and then come home to a big backyard and reclining chairs. Bliss!

If that seems too big, cozy up in this westside immaculately decorated two bedroom home. Views of the mountains from almost every window as well as a fun fire pit out front.

If you’re traveling solo, consider this updated loft in the heart of Manitou Springs. Located on the top floor, experience unobstructed mountain views and creekside.

North end

The Air Force Academy is located in Colorado Springs' north end. Developers have been busy adding entertainment along the I-25 corridor. Top Golf and Scheels top the list for fun cold weather activities. Watch a movie or go bowling at Summit. Better yet, check out the taxidermy at Bass Pro Shops.

Just a few miles up the road lies Palmer Lake and Palmer Lake Reservoirs, a fun place to SUP and hike around. Throw a round of disc golf and hop over the new pedestrian bridge to RockHouse Ice Cream.

Colorado Springs is home to the USA Olympics

Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Hiking Pikes Peak is just one of many things to do in Colorado Springs. There has been exciting growth in the city over the past several years. Revitalization of downtown has added fun restaurants, great shopping, museums and art walks.

Downtown Museums to Up North Golfing

US Olympic and Paralympic Museum

The famous Broadmoor Hotel offers free art tours of General Palmer’s personal art collection. Head to the USA’s highest zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, to see dozens of giraffes and elephants. Walk among penguins and wallabies, then hang out on Zoo’s famous Sky Ride.

Catch a semi pro soccer game at Weidner Field, the newly built Switchback Stadium. Head to nearby USA Paralympic and Olympic museum, a truly one of a kind interactive experience.

We created three day, four day and seven day Colorado Springs trip planners, highlighting things to do, nearby hikes to take and of course, the best local restaurants to sit and replenish.

FREEBIE! Click the button below for a free PDF - the Colorado Springs Trip Planner

Colorado Springs Breweries

Colorado craft beer is legendary. With over 400 established breweries in this state, build in some time to see what all the hype is about.

Plan a brewery tour or sample a flight. For all of Colorado Springs craft breweries, check out the Colorado Hikes and Hops Brewery Guide. We tell you where to go, what to sample and interesting facts about each place.

View of Pikes Peak from Palmer Park

Colorado Springs Hikes

Plan some short and easy hikes around Colorado Springs, exploring the depth and breadth of trails this city has to offer.

Purchase a few souvenirs and know that part of the tax you pay (thank you!) keeps these trails open and safe. TOPS (Trails and Open Space) continue to maintain open spaces and parks as Colorado Springs grows.

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Hiking Pikes Peak is a blast. But exploring America’s Mountain other ways is fun too!

What is your favorite way to experience Pikes Peak?

Colorado SpringsMelodie Monberg