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Best extra difficult hikes in El Paso County
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Best extra difficult hikes in El Paso County

Only the bravest need apply! These extra-difficult hikes are not for the faint of heart.

Here are some great hikes to explore in El Paso County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (2) · 37.2 km · Est. 3 days

2

Extra Difficult

Bottomless Pit via Barr Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star N/A (0) · 19.7 km · Est. 2 days

3

Extra Difficult

Fremont Experimental Forest Trail via The Incline Trailhead

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (2) · 7.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 48 min

4

Extra Difficult

Pipeline Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (2) · 17.8 km · Est. 2 days

5

Extra Difficult

The Incline and Barr Trail Loop

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.6 (11) · 4.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

6

Extra Difficult

Eagle's Peak Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.2 (14) · 6.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 20 min

7

Extra Difficult

The Incline and Barr Loop Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.3 (10) · 6.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

8

Extra Difficult

Silver Cascades Falls Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.7 (9) · 994 m · Est. 21 min

9

Extra Difficult

Ormes Peak

El Paso County, Colorado · star 5.0 (2) · 807 m · Est. 23 min

10

Extra Difficult

Mount Herman

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.3 (12) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 46 min

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Reviews for extra difficult hikes in El Paso County

Jene Moen avatar

Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail

RoamerSkytracker29 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Bottomless Pit via Barr Trail.

Stephine Schaefer avatar

Fremont Experimental Forest Trail via The Incline Trailhead

TrailmarkerBushstrider44 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kent Mann avatar

Pipeline Trail

GraniteWalker82 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Jeff Fry avatar

The Incline and Barr Trail Loop

OkieFryman · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

5/19/25 - Perfect conditions; beautiful and cool morning. "Reservation" was at 6:30am and began my climb at 6:34am. The steps are in great condition. Some ties have shifted, but the design is great and their watershed control looks great.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in El Paso County

What is the climate like for hiking in Colorado?

In Colorado, a hiker's paradise, weather conditions can vary greatly by season and elevation. Generally, the state experiences a sunny, dry climate, making it a year-round hiking destination.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather and is typically the best time to tackle high-altitude hikes in the Rocky Mountains, as trails are mostly free from snow. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early starts are recommended.
Winter (December through February) brings snow and cold temperatures, especially at high elevations, making some trails inaccessible. But for the prepared adventurer, winter hiking or snowshoeing can offer a unique and serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before setting out. For trail updates and weather info, visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://climate.colorado.gov/]

Do I need a permit to hike in Colorado?

While most Colorado trails are free, some popular areas, like Hanging Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park, require permits or reservations to manage visitor impact. Permits can typically be obtained online in advance. Contact the relevant park management or Colorado Parks & Wildlife for specifics. [Link: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm]

Is wild camping allowed in Colorado?

Wild camping, often referred to as dispersed camping, is generally permitted in Colorado's National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas, unless otherwise posted. Hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and fire restrictions. Always check specific regulations with the managing agency. [Link: www.fs.usda.gov]

Are there mountain rescue services in Colorado?

In the event of a hiking emergency in Colorado, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) coordinates rescue efforts in the mountainous terrains. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a charged cell phone. [Link: https://coloradosar.org/]

Are there dangerous plants in Colorado?

Colorado's diverse landscapes offer a variety of flora. Alpine regions feature tundra wildflowers, while lower elevations host pine forests and aspen groves. Hikers should respect the delicate ecosystem and avoid trampling wildflowers. The Colorado Native Plant Society website provides comprehensive information. [Link: www.conps.org]

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Colorado?

Colorado's trails reveal an array of wildlife, from elk and deer in the Rocky Mountain National Park to marmots and pikas in alpine areas. Be bear-aware, particularly in forested areas, and mindful of smaller critters like ticks and mosquitoes. For wildlife safety tips, refer to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://dnr.colorado.gov/divisions/colorado-parks-wildlife]

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