Devils Playground to Pikes Peak Summit to Barr Trail

This point-to-point route traverses Pikes Peak from west to east, starting at the Crags Trailhead on the western slope and finishing at the Barr Trailhead in Manitou Springs. The hike begins on the Crags Trail (#664) before branching right onto the Devil's Playground Trail (#664A). The initial climb ascends steadily through pine forests before emerging above the timberline into alpine tundra. Hikers navigate the rocky terrain of the Devil's Playground to reach the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. This western ascent spans approximately 6.6 miles and gains over 4,200 feet of elevation. The summit offers services and supplies at the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, including food, water, and restrooms. From the summit, the route joins the historic Barr Trail (#602) near the Cog Railway tracks to begin the descent down the eastern slope. The trail navigates the steep, rocky switchbacks of the Golden Staircase before entering the forest and passing Barr Camp. Below Barr Camp, the path becomes smoother and less technical as it winds down to Manitou Springs. The descent covers nearly 12 miles with over 7,500 feet of elevation loss.