Hey guys. I will be in Denver the last week of April and I’m looking to do the Barr Trail to the top of Pikes, but I have a few questions/concerns.
I’m a relatively inexperienced hiker/climber, but I do have Half Dome and the Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains (Mount Washington) under my belt and am a 30 year old male in excellent physical condition. That being said, I understand that the two hikes mentioned are quite different from an attempt at Pikes and my concerns are twofold: Weather and altitude.
From my research it looks like I’m looking at an average high of about 60-65 degrees in Colorado Springs and 25 degrees on the top of Pikes for the end of April. So it sounds like it’s going to be a COLD hike. I’ve done ALL of my hiking in warm weather only, so I’m a little apprehensive about tackling something like this solo in temps I'm not used to. Is the trail going to be snow-covered still at the end of April? Any recommendations for cold weather gear?
Secondly, altitude – I’ll be in Denver on business for 3-4 days prior to the potential hike, could that help my low-altitude East Coast body adjust? I understand that altitude sickness is a VERY subjective, variable affliction, but as a general rule, is it a major issue on the Barr trail for most? Would it be smart to bring a small bottle or two of Boost oxygen to make sure I can summit?
Any advice appreciated. I’d love to do the climb, but only if I think it’s reasonable for me given the time of year. Thanks in advance.
