Hike Pikes Peak Trails

This is a cross post from the Old and Bold Meet-Up. Please read the entire announcement before signing-up. This trip is an introduction to backpacking at altitude. It is not a first timer trip but it is a low-mileage trip that is not overly strenuous (except for the altitude). We will hike some of the lesser known side trails off Barr Trail as well as Barr Trail to the top of Pikes Peak. I will review each person that signs up for this trip and take them off the confirmed list if I feel they would not be able to safely complete this trip. It is scheduled for 6 days; this includes travel days. I will be working the logistical details over the next several weeks and will update the information as things change. The itinerary will be flexible due to the weather changes on Pikes Peak. If there is too much soft snow we may not be able to summit the peak.

Tentative itinerary:
Day 1 Travel to Manitou Springs, CO; hike up between 4-6 miles. Have your headlamps accessible.
Day 2 Hike to Ghost Town Hollow; potential stay at the Hollow or alpine meadow (elevation at the Hollow 12,000 ft)
Day 3 Bottomless Pit (about 11,500 ft)
Day 4 Summit Pikes Peak (14,115 ft) and back to A-Frame or stay on reverse slope of the Peak
Day 5 Hike down to Experimental forest or stay near Barr Camp
Day 6 Hike down, drive home and try to hit a truck stop on the way home for showers

Critical Information/Please read:

1. The folks participating will be making a significant investment in time and money to make this trip. The cog railroad and the new summit house should be open by June. If you have to come off the mountain early you will need to hike down on your own or pay for a cog train ride down, be financially responsible for any additional days of hotel stays, in town travel and/or your travel home if you decide to go home early.
2. The hike into Bottomless Pit is down a very steep scree field. It is challenging but very doable; there is the very real potential for injury. You will have the option to hike back to Barr Camp and stay there the evening the group stays in the Pit if you find it too challenging.
3. Pandemic considerations: We normally try to carpool but given the pandemic it is suggested that you either drive up on your own or limit yourself to carpooling with only one other person (unless everyone in the vehicle is fully vaccinated). If carpooling you both should wear face coverings. If you feel sick, have a fever or suspect that you are not well please do not participate.
4. Backpacking is inherently dangerous; everyone will be required to sign a waiver prior to the trip.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.