Pike's Peak Highway: A Drive to the Top of America's Mountain
Experience the thrill of driving to the summit of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain, via this scenic 19-mile highway.
The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile toll road that provides access to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's famous 14ers. Built in 1915, the highway offers stunning views, diverse scenery, and a chance to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
A brief summary to Pike's Peak Highway
- Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade, Cascade, Colorado, 80809, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather conditions before you go, as the highway may close due to inclement weather.
- Make reservations in advance, especially if visiting between late May and September.
- Start with at least half a tank of gas, as there are no gas stations along the highway.
- Take your time and stop at the scenic overlooks to enjoy the views and acclimate to the altitude.
- Consider taking the Pikes Peak Shuttle or the Cog Railway if you prefer not to drive.
Getting There
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Driving
From Colorado Springs, head west on US-24. Turn left onto Fountain Avenue in Cascade, following signs for the Pikes Peak Highway. The Gateway is a short distance from the turnoff. Before reaching the entrance, be sure to have a reservation and purchase a timed-entry permit online. As of May 1, 2025, the general admission fee is $18 per adult (ages 16+) and $8 per child (ages 6-15). A carload rate (up to 5 passengers) is available for $65. A $2 timed entry permit is required. Parking is available at the summit, but can be limited during peak season.
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Shuttle
Park at the designated parking area at Mile 7 on Pikes Peak Highway. Purchase shuttle tickets online in advance. As of July 2025, shuttle tickets cost approximately $30 for adults and $10 for children. The shuttle ride to the summit takes about 40 minutes, with a narrated tour along the way. The shuttle drops off passengers at the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, where they can explore at their leisure before catching a shuttle back down.
Discover more about Pike's Peak Highway
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Train Station
7.7 km
Explore the Historic Train Station in Manitou Springs, CO – a captivating landmark showcasing the rich history of rail travel and stunning mountain views.
Pikes Peak By Rail
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Colorado on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders.
Williams Canyon
8.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Williams Canyon, a serene ravine in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Shoshone Spring
8.9 km
Explore the historical Shoshone Spring in Manitou Springs, a serene landmark that showcases the area's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Governor's House
9.3 km
Discover the historical allure of Governor's House in Manitou Springs, where rich history meets stunning Colorado landscapes.
Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum
9.4 km
Explore the captivating history of Manitou Springs at the Heritage Center and Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Glen Eyrie Castle
10.3 km
Experience the magic of Glen Eyrie Castle, a historic hotel in Colorado Springs offering breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor adventures.
Flying W Ranch Chuckwagon Suppers and Original Western Stage Show
10.5 km
Discover the charm of the Wild West at Flying W Ranch with delicious chuckwagon meals and captivating live performances in Colorado Springs.
Kissing Camels
10.9 km
Discover the stunning Kissing Camels rock formation in Colorado Springs, a breathtaking scenic spot perfect for outdoor adventures and unforgettable memories.
Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
11.0 km
Explore the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, a premier museum showcasing dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits in Woodland Park, Colorado.
Ute Pass Historical Society
11.1 km
Explore Colorado's past at the Ute Pass Historical Society, a hidden gem offering captivating exhibits and local history in Woodland Park.
Historic Manitou Springs Sign
11.3 km
Explore the Historic Manitou Springs Sign, a charming landmark that embodies the spirit of this vibrant Colorado town and its rich cultural heritage.
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
11.8 km
Explore the historic charm of Rock Ledge Ranch, a living history museum in Colorado Springs, showcasing the rich heritage of the region amidst stunning landscapes.
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
11.9 km
Explore the breathtaking red rock formations and adventure opportunities at Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, a must-visit destination in Colorado Springs.
Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center
12.1 km
Discover the wonders of space at the Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center in Colorado Springs, a must-visit museum for all astronomy enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pikes Peak - America's Mountain
2.0 km
Experience the majesty of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain: Drive, hike, or ride to the 14,115-foot summit for breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.
North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop
2.3 km
Experience the magic of Christmas year-round at North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop, a vintage amusement park nestled at the foot of Pikes Peak.
Green Mountain Falls Pond
3.6 km
Escape to the serene beauty of Green Mountain Falls Pond: a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Devil's Playground
7.0 km
Hike to breathtaking views from the Devil's Playground, a scenic stop along the Pikes Peak Highway known for intense lightning storms.
The Incline
7.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Incline in Colorado, a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Manitou Incline
7.2 km
Experience the thrill of the Manitou Incline, a challenging hike with breathtaking views of Colorado's stunning mountain landscapes.
Rainbow Falls
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Falls in Colorado, a perfect blend of scenic hiking trails and stunning natural waterfalls.
Pikes Peak Summit House
7.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pikes Peak Summit House, where stunning vistas and delicious treats await every traveler.
Pikes Peak
7.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain, offering a variety of recreational activities and a state-of-the-art visitor center.
Pikes Peak Summit Complex
7.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Pikes Peak Summit Complex, the gateway to Colorado's majestic Rocky Mountains.
Lantern Tour
7.8 km
Explore the spooky side of Cave of the Winds with a lantern-lit tour through dark caverns and eerie ghost stories in Manitou Springs, Colorado.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
7.9 km
Discover underground wonders and above-ground thrills at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park in Manitou Springs, Colorado.
Pike's Peak, Colorado
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Pike's Peak, America's Mountain, an iconic Colorado landmark offering an unforgettable summit experience.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
8.1 km
Experience a breathtaking journey to the summit of Pikes Peak on the world's highest cog railway, offering stunning views since 1891.
Lone Tree Lookout
8.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views and serene natural beauty at Lone Tree Lookout in Colorado Springs.
Essential places to dine
The Loop
8.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at The Loop in Manitou Springs - where every bite tells a story.
Armadillo Ranch Bar, Restaurant, Live Music Venue
8.7 km
Discover Armadillo Ranch: A lively bar and restaurant in Manitou Springs offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and captivating live music.
Border Burger Bar
8.8 km
Discover gourmet burgers at Border Burger Bar in Manitou Springs – where local flavors meet a casual dining experience amidst stunning Colorado scenery.
Cliff House Dining Room
8.9 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst stunning mountain views at the Cliff House Dining Room in Manitou Springs.
Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant
9.1 km
Experience the art of fondue at Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant – where every meal becomes a delightful celebration in Manitou Springs.
The Keg Lounge
9.1 km
Discover delicious grilled specialties and refreshing drinks at The Keg Lounge in charming Manitou Springs.
Manitou Brewing Company
9.1 km
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Swirl Restaurant and Wine Bar
9.1 km
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Adam’s Mountain Cafe
11.1 km
Experience delicious vegetarian breakfasts and warm hospitality at Adam's Mountain Cafe in scenic Manitou Springs.
Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap
11.5 km
Experience the best seafood in Colorado Springs at Chef Bob's Lobstah Trap – where coastal flavors meet Rocky Mountain hospitality.
Amanda's Cantina and Fonda
11.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at Amanda's Cantina in Colorado Springs – a culinary gem offering authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Grand View
12.0 km
Experience fine dining at Grand View with breathtaking vistas of Garden of the Gods—a perfect blend of culinary excellence and nature's beauty.
Black Bear Diner Colorado Springs - Garden of the Gods
13.1 km
Experience hearty American meals at Black Bear Diner near Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs—perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Paravicini's Italian Bistro
13.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Paravicini's Italian Bistro in Old Colorado City - a must-visit culinary destination.
Ristorante Di Sopra
13.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Di Sopra in Old Colorado City - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pike's Peak Rock Shop
2.7 km
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Pikes Peak Gift Shop
7.7 km
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The Castle Gift Shop
8.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Castle Gift Shop in Manitou Springs, where local culture meets historic charm.
The Hemp Store
8.7 km
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Osburn Gift Shop
8.8 km
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Eagle Dancer
8.8 km
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Leprechaun Shoppe
8.8 km
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Sante Fe Springs
8.8 km
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Mountain High Gallery and Gifts
8.8 km
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La Tienda
8.9 km
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Mountain West Trading USA
8.9 km
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Ten Spot
8.9 km
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Kill Your Culture
8.9 km
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Manitou Outpost
9.0 km
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La Henna Boheme
9.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kinfolks
8.8 km
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Red Mountain Bar and Grill
8.8 km
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Royal Tavern
8.9 km
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Townhouse Sports Grill
8.9 km
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Heroes Hollow
9.1 km
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The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room
12.0 km
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Trails End Taproom and Eatery
12.9 km
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Nova West
13.5 km
Nova West: Where Craft Drinks Meet a Lively Atmosphere in Old Colorado City, Colorado Springs.
Upstairs Wine Bar
13.7 km
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The Fifty-Niner
13.8 km
Discover The Fifty-Niner in Old Colorado City, where great food, local brews, and board games come together for an unforgettable experience.
OCC Brewing and Restaurant
13.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft brews and delectable cuisine at OCC Brewing and Restaurant in Colorado Springs, a local gem in Old Colorado City.
Pub Dog Colorado
14.0 km
Discover the unique flavors of crafted beers and infused cocktails at Pub Dog Colorado, a must-visit bar in Colorado Springs.
Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub
14.0 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Voodoo Brewing Company, where unique brews and delicious pub fare await in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Mountain Brewery
14.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft brews at Colorado Mountain Brewery in Colorado Springs, where every bite and sip tells a story.
Mill Hill Saloon
14.9 km
Experience the local nightlife at Mill Hill Saloon, where great drinks and good vibes await in the heart of Colorado Springs.
