THE HIKE:

Pikes Peak stands 14,110 feet above sea level, it was the inspiration for the song “America the Beautiful,” and is now a National Historic Landmark. And it’s the best backyard I can think of.

ROUTES:

The Cog, the Incline, and Barr Trail all share the same parking area. It’s a bit of problem, but just find a spot on the road if it’s full.

Once on the trail, you have about 13 miles ahead of you. The grade is mild and consistent. You’ll spend the first 10 miles in the trees getting occasional views of the Peak and the city below.

Barr Camp is waiting for you at mile 7. There’s a creek, friendly people, and a guest book to prove you were there. If you didn’t bring a water filter, you can rent one. Also, they usually have pancakes for tired hikers. And they might be the best pancakes in the world.

Add an hour to your time to Barr Camp, and that’ll put you at the top (more or less). Now is when you start digging a little deeper. In three miles you’ll reach the A Frame—probably my favorite spot on the whole climb. It’s a good place to grab a snack and fill your water one last time.

The last 3 miles are hard. There’s less oxygen and the trail finally gets tired of being tame. But the views are worth it. Every step is gorgeous. And every step it took to get there, makes it even better.

The top. Finally. There’s a gift shop, tourists, and 100 cars. But your view cost more than theirs so no worries. Just go treat yourself to a donut.

Now its time to make a decision. You can call for a ride, make friends with someone who drove, try to get on the Cog, or get back on Barr Trail. If you plan on doing the full 26 miles, be careful not to stay at the top too long. Its hard to recover at 14,000 feet and storms sneak up on you. But you’re a bad ass. And you’ll never look at the Peak the same again.

GOOD TO KNOW:

-Bring a rain coat—it’s the lightest, most versatile layer you own.

-If bad weather comes, hideout at Barr Camp, the A Frame, or the gift shop.

-Eat. This is no place to count calories.