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The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Experience a breathtaking journey to the summit of Pikes Peak on the world's highest cog railway, offering stunning views since 1891.

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Ascend Pikes Peak, one of America's most iconic mountains, via the world's highest cog railway. This historic train journey offers stunning views as it climbs to the 14,115-foot summit, a comfortable and civilized way to experience the breathtaking scenery that inspired "America the Beautiful".

A brief summary to The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Local tips

  • Book tickets in advance online for the best rates and to guarantee your seat, as journeys often sell out.
  • Arrive no more than 30 minutes before your scheduled departure due to traffic and limited space at the Cog Depot.
  • Dress warmly, as the temperature at the summit can be significantly colder and windier than at the base.
  • Consider parking in one of the city lots in Manitou Springs and taking the free Route 33 shuttle to avoid parking congestion at the depot.
  • No outside food or drinks allowed except for water. Visitors are welcome to purchase snacks at the depot for the ride.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Manitou Springs, the Cog Railway depot is easily accessible on foot. Head west on Ruxton Avenue, the main street, and you'll find the depot at 515 Ruxton Ave. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from most points in downtown. Be aware of vehicle traffic on Ruxton Avenue. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The free Route 33 shuttle provides convenient access to the Cog Railway from various parking lots in Manitou Springs. If parking at Hiawatha Gardens or other city lots, look for the Route 33 shuttle stops and board the shuttle to the Cog Railway depot. The shuttle runs approximately every 10-20 minutes. This service is free.

  • Driving

    If driving directly to the Cog Railway, navigate to 515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Parking is available at the depot for $20 for 4 hours, but it is limited and only available 30 minutes before your departure. Consider parking at Hiawatha Gardens in Manitou Springs and taking the free shuttle.

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Discover more about The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a unique and unforgettable journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, also known as "America's Mountain". Since 1891, this railway has transported millions of passengers to the 14,115-foot summit, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The railway's story began in the late 1880s when Zalmon Simmons, the founder of Simmons Beautyrest Mattress Company, endured a grueling two-day mule ride to the top of Pikes Peak. Inspired to create a more comfortable and civilized way to experience the mountain's beauty, Simmons founded the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway Company in 1889. Construction began immediately, and on June 30, 1891, the first train reached the summit. Over the years, the railway has undergone several modern developments. The original steam locomotives were eventually replaced by gasoline, diesel, and diesel-electric engines. In the mid-1960s, Swiss engineer Martin Frick was hired, and he played a crucial role in maintaining and improving the railway for over 30 years. Recognizing the need for increased capacity, the railway added larger and more efficient railcars from Swiss Locomotive Works. In 2018, the Cog Railway closed for a comprehensive three-year renovation project. The $100 million overhaul included replacing the old track, refurbishing the existing diesel engines, and adding new trains from Switzerland. The renovated railway reopened in 2021, offering passengers an even more comfortable and modern experience. The Cog Railway is the highest railway in the United States and the highest cog railway in the world. The journey to the summit takes approximately three hours round trip, including about 40 minutes to an hour to explore the peak. During the ride, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including reservoirs and the Front Range peaks. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the depot, but outside food is not allowed on the train.

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