Pikes Peak, Pikes Peak Region Travel Guide

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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, a towering 14,115-foot summit in the Rocky Mountains, is an iconic landmark in Colorado. Named after explorer Zebulon Pike, it inspired Katharine Lee Bates's 'America the Beautiful' and offers breathtaking views, a state-of-the-art visitor center, and various recreational activities.

A brief summary to Pikes Peak

101 El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs, Colorado, 80829, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pikes Peak.

Make reservations in advance if you plan to drive up Pikes Peak, especially during peak season (May 23 - September 30).
Acclimate to the altitude in Colorado Springs for a few days before attempting to hike or drive to the summit.
Check the weather conditions before heading up, as conditions can change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
Wear layers of clothing, as the temperature at the summit can be significantly colder than at the base.

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Explore Pikes Peak on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pikes Peak, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The most common way to reach Pikes Peak's summit is by driving the Pikes Peak Highway. From Colorado Springs, take US-24 West towards Manitou Springs. Continue on US-24 to Cascade, then turn onto Pikes Peak Highway (toll road). The drive is 19 miles to the summit. Reservations are required between May 23 and September 30, costing $2 per vehicle. Admission fees are $15 per adult (16+), $5 per child (6-15), or $50 per carload (up to 5 passengers). Expect the drive to take about 1-2 hours each way, not including stops. Be prepared for possible brake checks on the descent to ensure safe driving.
Cog Railway

Another option is the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which departs from Manitou Springs. From Colorado Springs, take US-24 West to Manitou Springs. Follow the signs to the Cog Railway Depot. Standard admission is around $58.50 per adult and $48.50 per child (12 and under). Engineer's View seating is also available for a higher price. Parking at the Depot costs $15. The round trip takes approximately 3 hours, with 40 minutes at the summit.
Shuttle

Gray Line offers shuttle tours to the summit of Pikes Peak. These tours typically depart from various locations in Colorado Springs. A four-hour summit trip costs around $80 per person ($60 for children 2-12). Check with Gray Line for specific departure points and schedules.

Discover more about Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, also known as "America's Mountain," is a majestic fourteener (a mountain exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation) that dominates the Colorado landscape. Located in the Pike National Forest, the peak lies west of Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs. Its stunning views have captivated visitors for centuries and inspired the iconic American anthem, "America the Beautiful".Originally known as Tavá Kaa-vi, or "Sun Mountain" by the Ute Indians, Pikes Peak has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Lieutenant Zebulon Pike first documented the peak in 1806 during his expedition to explore the Louisiana Purchase territory. Although Pike himself never reached the summit, the mountain was later named in his honor. The mountain became a symbol for westward-bound emigrants during the Colorado Gold Rush of 1858-59, with many sporting the phrase "Pikes Peak or Bust".The Pikes Peak Highway, completed in 1915, provides a scenic route to the summit. In 1916, Spencer Penrose organized the first Pikes Peak Auto Hill Climb, now known as the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, a challenging motorsports race that attracts competitors from around the world. The race covers 12.42 miles with 156 turns, climbing from 9,390 feet to the 14,115-foot summit.At the summit, the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, opened in 2021, offers panoramic views, accessible facilities, and exhibits about the mountain's history, climate, and geology. Visitors can also enjoy the famous Pikes Peak donuts. The area offers various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and biking.