Pikes Peak - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Barr Trail is the most popular way to climb Pikes Peak. It is a 12-mile trail with 7500 feet of elevation gain. The high elevation trail with a long sustained grade is rated more difficult by the U.S. Forest Service. With a 7,800 feet elevation gain to reach the summit, the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau states that it is an advanced trail and is the most difficult trail in the Pikes Peak region.

Mason Reservoir is located in Teller County. It was created in 1962 by the Denver Water Board for the purpose of storing water for the city of Denver. The reservoir is named after former Denver mayor Benjamin F. Stapleton. The reservoir has a capacity of 44,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,200 acres. It is fed by the South Platte River and is used for recreation, fishing, and boating. The reservoir is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, ospreys, deer, and beavers.

South Slope Recreation Area is a beautiful recreation area located in Teller County, Colorado. The area offers stunning views of the mountains and valley, and is a great place to hike, camp, and enjoy the outdoors. There are also several fishing lakes in the area, making it a popular spot for anglers. In addition to its natural beauty, South Slope Recreation Area also boasts a variety of amenities, including bathrooms, picnic tables, and a playground.

Crags Trail Head provides access to the Crags Campground and the amenities provided there, including picnic tables, grills, and a vault toilet. Parking is available for vehicles and trailers. The trailhead is also the starting point for the Crags Nature Trail, a half-mile loop that winds through forests of pine and aspen. The nature trail provides interpretive signs along the way, explaining the ecology of the area. Visitors can also enjoy views of Pikes Peak from the trailhead.

The Horsethief Park Trailhead provides access to the Horsethief Canyon Trail, which winds its way through some of the most scenic parts of the state. The trail is popular with hikers, horseback riders, and cyclists, and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. wildlife is abundant in the area, and visitors often see deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and eagles. This is a beautiful spot for a day hike or a longer backpacking trip, and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Crystal Creek Reservoir is a beautiful location in Teller County, Colorado. The reservoir is man-made, and was originally built in the 1960s to provide water for the town of Woodland Park. Today, it is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. The reservoir is surrounded by hiking trails, and there are also several campgrounds nearby. Crystal Creek Reservoir is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and to experience the beauty of Colorado.