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Pike's Peak Highway: A Drive to the Top of America's Mountain

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Experience the thrill of driving to the top of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain, on this scenic and historic highway.

The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile toll road that winds its way to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most iconic mountains. Offering stunning views and a chance to experience diverse Colorado life zones, it's a must-do for visitors to the Colorado Springs area.

A brief summary to Pike's Peak Highway

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, as timed entry permits are required.
  • Check the weather conditions before you go, as the highway may close due to inclement weather.
  • Allow 2-3 hours for a round trip, but plan for extra time to stop and enjoy the views.
  • Take breaks to acclimatize to the altitude, especially if you are not used to high elevations.
  • Consider taking the shuttle if you'd rather not drive the winding road yourself.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Colorado Springs, take Highway US-24 west towards Cascade. Turn left onto Fountain Avenue, where you'll see signs for the Pikes Peak Highway. The Gateway, where you pay the toll, is a short distance up the road. As of May 1, 2025, the general admission fee is $18 per adult (ages 16+) and $8 per child (ages 6-15). A carload discount rate (up to 5 passengers) is available for $65. A $2 timed-entry permit is required to drive past Mile 7 from the Friday before Memorial Day through September 30. Reservations are recommended.

  • Shuttle

    From late May to early August, a shuttle service operates from the parking lot at Mile 7 on the Pikes Peak Highway. Park at Mile 7 and board the shuttle for a narrated tour to the summit. As of July 2025, the shuttle costs $30 for adults and $10 for children. This price does not include the highway admission fee, which must be purchased separately.

Discover more about Pike's Peak Highway

The Pikes Peak Highway, completed in 1915, offers a unique opportunity to drive to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. The highway starts in Cascade, Colorado, and ascends over 6,700 feet through various climate zones, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Originally built by Spencer Penrose to promote tourism in the region, the highway quickly became a popular attraction. Today, it remains a favorite destination for travelers seeking to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, visitors can stop at scenic overlooks, hike on designated trails, and explore attractions like Crystal Reservoir and the North Slope Recreation Area. The summit offers panoramic vistas and the newly constructed Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, featuring exhibits, a gift shop, and a cafe. The highway is also home to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, an annual automobile and motorcycle race that has been held since 1916.
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More about Pikes Peak

File:Pikes Peak summit view 1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore Pikes Peak in Colorado: A majestic 14,115-foot mountain offering scenic drives, historic railways, and thrilling outdoor adventures all year round.

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