Pikes Peak - Manitou Springs to Barr Camp

Physical Difficulty: Expert
Technical Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13 mile round trip Duration: 6 hours

TRAIL DESCRIPTION

This ride takes you from Manitou Springs up the Barr Trail to the Barr Camp, which is approximately halfway to the summit. Although very popular with hikers, the trail has few mountain bikers. The reason for this is simple: it is physically brutal! Elevation goes from all the way from 6,200 feet to 10,200 feet, for a massive 4,000 foot gain over just 6.5 miles.

The trail is generally excellent, barely deserving a moderate Technical Difficulty. Still, the log steps at switchback corners, loose gravel/talus covering the trail, and some rocky conditions higher up can be difficult to negotiate.

This is the ultimate "last big ride" of the season. It was certainly a measure of your conditioning, both physical and mental, as you battle to keep your legs operational. Train hard, and don't miss it next season!