Conditioning + Qualifying Hike: Elk Park Trail to Barr Camp
Details
This is a spontaneous conditioning + qualifying hike! There may be additional qualifying hikes later this season if another group leader has an open weekend, but nothing is currently planned. If you need to qualify for upcoming backpacking trips, this is a great opportunity.
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE POST BEFORE RSVPing.
This is a conditioning + qualifying hike to participate in upcoming backpacking events with Colorado Springs Backpackers (COSBP). If you have a dog you want to bring backpacking, your dog must also qualify. Friendly, well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. If you have already qualified, you're welcome to join for a great altitude conditioning hike.
You only have to complete a qualifying hike once unless it's been more than 8 months since participating in a COSBP trip or hike.
Before participating, you must complete our waiver:
https://forms.gle/3DzXeRDJziLAZ8nJ7
## What it takes to qualify:
- Carry a full backpacking pack weighing at least 24 pounds for the entire hike. I recommend packing it as you would for an actual backpacking trip. Please do not use gym weights—they distribute weight poorly and are uncomfortable. Packs will be weighed.
- Finish the hike without any major problems.
- Know when you need to take a break and communicate it.
- No pace requirement.
- Bring a positive attitude and be a good teammate.
## Hike Details
Route: Elk Park Trailhead → Barr Camp → Elk Park Trailhead
Distance: ~10.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 ft
Starting Elevation: ~10,000 ft
This hike follows the scenic Barr Trail through the forest to historic Barr Camp. While the mileage and elevation gain are moderate, the high starting elevation makes this an excellent conditioning hike for backpacking, Colorado Trail trips, and Colorado 14ers.
## Meeting Options
Option 1 – Carpool (Recommended)
Meet at Cascade-Chipita Park (North Pole parking lot) at 7:00 AM:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/6baV3biHdabLUKjZA
We'll organize carpools and depart promptly at 7:15 AM for the trailhead.
Option 2 – Meet at the Trailhead
Meet at Elk Park Trailhead at 7:30 AM:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vUsbMRh5WDZhTjVh9
Please comment when you RSVP to let us know which meeting option you'll be using.
CalTopo Map: https://caltopo.com/m/B4QM9PM
## Important Information
- 🚗 The trailhead is accessed via the Pikes Peak Highway. An entrance fee is required per vehicle, so carpooling is encouraged to help reduce costs.
- 🥾 24 lb backpack required to qualify.
- 💧 Water is available at Barr Camp but must be filtered or otherwise treated before drinking.
- 🍪 Barr Camp sells snacks and drinks (cash only).
- 🥪 Bring plenty of water, lunch, and snacks for yourself.
- 🌦️ Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains. Please come prepared with rain gear and warm layers.
- 🥾 Trekking poles are recommended.