Q: When is the best time in my trip to hike Pikes Peak?

A: You may feel great (or at least normal) on your first day at altitude because your body is able to compensate for the physiologic changes initially. However, during the subsequent 24-48 hours, most people experience some level of altitude sickness as their body makes short-term adjustments. Therefore, HFL recommends arriving at least 3 days prior to your planned summit hike. Our recommendation is based on scientific research, anecdotal evidence, and our advanced guides’ experience!

Q: What are symptoms of Altitude Sickness/Acute Mountain Sickness?

A: Headache

Loss of Appetite, Nausea, Shortness of Breath, Fatigue, Difficulty Sleeping, Increased Heart Rate, Increased Respiratory Rate

Q: How long does it take to acclimatize to a higher elevation?

A: This depends on how long you will be here. There is short-term acclimatization that occurs over several days to several weeks. This mainly involves adjusting your breathing rate to compensate for the changes in oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange as well as lactic acid levels that are produced as a result. There is also long-term acclimatization that occurs over about three months as your body increases red blood cell production and vascularization to improve oxygen delivery to your tissues.

Q: What can I do to help myself acclimatize best?

A. Drink extra water!!

Proper hydration is the most important step you can take to help your body acclimatize and prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. Within the first 24 hours of your trip, your body decreases the amount of fluid/water in your blood to increase the ratio of red blood cells to fluid in an attempt to increase oxygen delivery to your tissues. Initially, this helps you feel better, however, soon the symptoms of dehydration will set in. This is why many people will feel worse during the second and third days of their trip. Not only is the altitude affecting your hydration status, but also, Colorado Springs has a very dry climate. Additionally, if you are flying into Colorado, the plane flight contributes to dehydration. Lastly, consuming substances that have a diuretic effect on your body, such as caffeine and alcohol, also contribute to dehydration. Thus, HFL recommends drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your summit hike.

A. Training Hike

Complete a short training hike, either with us or on your own, a day or two before your planned summit hike. We are happy to suggest training hike options for you!

Q: Is taking Aspirin or Diamox beneficial for acclimatization?

A: Aspirin can be beneficial for improving symptoms of altitude sickness such as a headache, however it does not help address the physiologic changes your body is undergoing due to being at a higher altitude. Acetazolamide/Diamox is a prescription medication that helps your body with the necessary physiologic adjustments at altitude. However, HFL does not recommend taking Diamox because it can mask the symptoms of altitude sickness which could be dangerous on a summit hike. If you are considering a prescription medication for altitude sickness, consult with your physician to learn more about the benefits and side effects of this medication based on your individualized medical management.

Q: Why does HFL choose to guide from the Crags Trailhead/Northwest Approach?

A: We guide from the Crags Trailhead (for first-time 14er climbers) because it is shorter, offers nicer views of the Western Rockies, and can relatively easily be accomplished in one day with a lighter gear load compared to Barr trail. If you would like more information about Barr trail, we can further discuss the pro’s and con’s of this trail.

Q: Can I camp at Barr Camp?

A: There are numerous campsites spread out between Barr Camp and A-frame so there is an option for a 2-day hike. They are usually pretty busy in the summer. You can visit their website for more specifics.

Q: Can I catch a ride down from Pikes Peak?

A: There are limited transportation services offered from Pikes Peak to Manitou Springs. If you would like more information, we can further discuss these options.

Q: Is the air really “thinner” in Colorado?

A: This is a misnomer because the amount of oxygen in the air is the same 21% as at lower altitudes. What does change is the PO2 (partial pressure of oxygen) which affects the physics of how you breath and how oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in your lungs, thus giving you the “short of breath” feeling. The term “thinner air” derives from the physics of the change in P02 because the O2 molecules are able to move more freely since there is less pressure applied to them.

Q: What do I need to pack for my summit hike?

A: We will provide a complete Gear List for you! It is important to remember that it can still be cold in Colorado during the summer, especially on the top of a 14er! Thus, dressing in layers is key. Also, remember to bring gloves and a warm hat for the summit!

Q: What training do you recommend to prepare for a Pikes Peak Summit hike?

A: Increasing your aerobic conditioning is key! This means you are able to exercise at moderate intensity for a long period of time without tiring. This requires aerobic endurance conditioning 3-4x per week AND strength training 2-3x per week. Specific workout regimens vary.