Gear - What to bring
Let's start with the ten essentials. As the name implies this is a list of ten items you should hike with. This list was developed in the 1930's and it is still valid.
The Essentials
- Map
- Compass (optionally supplemented with a GPS receiver)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Extra food and water
- Extra clothes
- Headlamp/flashlight
- First aid kit
- Fire starter
- Matches
- Knife
Water Filter or Treatment
This is an important addition for Barr Camp or any long-distance hike. Whether you are day hiking or staying overnight you will need this item. If you are going to do much hiking anywhere a filter is always a good investment. It allows you to carry less water with you and rely on surface water along your route. Treatment is also a viable method. It is cheap and lightweight but may have a taste. Below is a list of some of our favorites:
- Treatment -
Potable Aqua Iodine and Taste-Neutralizer Tablets
- The smallest filter we know of -
MSR HyperFlow Microfilter
- A very good option -
Katadyn Hiker PRO Water Filter
- UV Light -
SteriPEN Classic Water Purifier with Prefilter
There are many other good options and if you have one, then bring it.
Gear - Overnight
Required Gear for staying at Barr Camp:
- Sleeping Bag - There is no heat overnight at the camp.
- Flashlight
- Dry under layer - You will cool off fast. Something dry to wear underneath will make a big difference in your comfort
- Tenting gear - If you are tent camping
- Cooking gear - If you are cooking your own meals
Suggested gear for safety, comfort, and enjoyment while at Barr Camp:
- Camp shoes - these can be a very nice addition, crocs or something to walk around in other than your boots.
- Lightweight under layer - additional warmth in sleeping bag
- Toiletries - toothbrush/paste
- Toilet tissue - we have it at the camp but your hike is long.
- Camera
- Paper Towel
- Extra food/snacks for between meals - We also have some items available for purchase
Additional Gear for climbing Pikes Peak
- Additional Clothing - Weather dependent
- Outer shell hiking pants and top - For temperature, wind, snow, and rain possible
- Snowshoes / Crampons / Ice Axe - The snow conditions on the peak change hourly due to temperature and sun conditions, so it is normally impossible to predict this requirement. If you question whether you need them, bring them.
- Snow goggles - goggles for possible bright snow and high winds
- Survival bag or blanket (space blanket)
- Snow gaiters
- Gloves or mittens
Dress and pack for the weather that may or may not occur. Use a layering system that you can modify for existing conditions.
Things you might not need
Depending on where you are staying and how long you will be out you might not need some of these items as we have them at the camp.
- Toilet Paper - We have it at camp, but not for your hike
- Games - We have cards, dice, chess, checkers, and board games
- Books / Magazines
- Cups - We have cups for your hot drinks
- Coffee, Tea, Hot Cocoa - We have it for sale but normally include it in your overnight price.
Purchase your gear here
Click box for REI -
Mountain Chalet - Downtown Colorado Springs
Pikes Peak Atlas - Trail Map of the Pikes Peak area. We normally have these maps for sale at Barr Camp for $15.00 (tax included).