Have questions about the Challenge? Please take a minute to review our most frequently asked questions below. If you do not find the answer to your question, you may submit your question via the Contact Us page.

How long will it take me to hike to Barr Camp and back to the Trailhead?

An average hiker, in good physical condition, will take approximately 6-7  hours. Everything depends on weather, physical conditioning, how long you stay at Barr Camp (we recommend staying no longer than 20 minutes) and how well you eat and drink throughout the day.

Are there Aid Stations?

Pikes Peak Challenge Trail/Medical Staff are located at No Name Creek, and Barr Camp. These staff members are there to assist you with medical issues and answer any questions about your ascent.

Will there be water available on the trail?

You need to start this hike with at least 2 liters of water with you! There will be bottled water at check in, but our staff will not have bottled water at every check point. We recommend a bladder hydration system.

Can I smoke?

There is no smoking at the summit or in the shuttle vans. If we have a dry season on the mountain you could easily and inadvertently cause a forest fire in this protected environment. Colorado has a non-smoking ordinance that we respect during the course of this event.

Will the altitude make me sick?

Hopefully not, but some people do have problems whether they come from lower altitudes or not, it is generally unpredictable. Symptoms can include nausea, headache, dizziness, loss of breath and loss of judgment. Staying well hydrated helps ward off Altitude Sickness.

Can I bring my dog?

Our van leasing company will not allow your dog in the transport vans and not everyone you might ride with will be a dog lover. It is possible you might see some rescue dogs with our staff or dogs in training invited by the Event Director; however this is not an indication that you may bring your dog.

Can I bring a friend?

Only if they are a registered participant. Everyone hiking in the Pikes Peak Challenge must be a registered participant and must be registered before the deadline. This event does not have a late registration or a registration at check in. This is not only a requirement of our Forest Service Permit but is for your safety. Non-registered parties will not be allowed on Pikes Peak Challenge shuttle vans and will find themselves without a ride back down off the mountain.

Can I bring my son or daughter to hike or walk with me?

Children are allowed only as registered participants. They must be at least 12 years old and in good physical condition to participate in the Barr Camp Hike. Children 12 years+ participating in the Barr Camp Hike, do have the fundraising requirements.

Do I have to raise money to participate?

Yes, this is a fundraising event. Our Forest Service Permit only allows us to have 450 participants so it is imperative that if you want to fill one of these limited positions that you are helping us raise the needed funding for the brain injury survivors we represent.

What if the weather is bad, will the event be cancelled?

The Pikes Peak Challenged has never been cancelled. Some form of a hike will always be attempted.