Incline Experience

by Eric
(Colorado Springs)

The fastest time I have been a part of (seen, not done) was 24 minutes up the incline (they ran the entire way)...36 minutes was my personal best and that is with a stop to throw up...I also went up the incline at least once a week at the time.

45 minutes is a good target time, if you don't stop, but you have been doing physical training via hiking, the incline, etc. With routine stops, stretches and walking a dog, the incline can be conquered fairly easy within 1 hour 15 minutes. I did this yesterday, which was my first trip up the incline this season...I do exercise at least 4 days a week and my goal was to just get to the top...didn't care about the time it took. I also like to visit on the way up, since everyone is there for the challenge and sense of accomplishment.

Take water with you, via camel back and not a water bottle...it gets heavy and almost as irritating as the hike itself. Running shoes are fine for the hike. The sun will be beating down at the back of your neck the entire walk up.

There is a turn-off where you can get on Barr Camp trail about 1/2 way up the incline...if it becomes too much for you. Also, if a "friend" is taking you up the incline for the first time, they will likely not tell you about the "false summit"...the "top" of the incline can NOT be seen from the trail head...don't let them fool you. Many people think it is funny to see your expression at the 3/4 mile mark, but don't work...the hardest part is getting to the false summit and a good point for a break, stretch and enjoy the view...most stop at this point, especially the first timers.

You will see several people walking down the incline, but I would recommend setting aside 4 hours of your day and stroll down Barr Trail (4 miles)...especially your first couple time up the incline. If you decide to run down Barr Camp, be aware the trail gravel is slippery and many have been known to fall (to include myself) if you let the gravity take over...it is more of a technical run and keep your speed/balance under control or you could be seriously injured or worse (no joke!).

You should be up and down the incline by 2 pm, since that is about the time Colorado weather starts to come in off Pikes Peak (wind, rain, snow, etc).

The best time to find parking is before 5:30 am or between 7-8 am. Otherwise, you will have to walk 1/2 - 1 mile just to get to the base of the Incline.

Take your time and remember the goal is to simply get to the top and enjoy a sense of accomplishment with a view.