You’ll pass several small businesses and homes on both sides of the two-lane road. Wool and wicking material is ideal for layering because it will dry out quicker than cotton. Views to the west near the summit of Pikes Peak. Audio Tour of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. It's also one of the most popular to conquer, attracting more than a half a million visitors per year—in fact, Pikes Peak claims to be the most-visited mountain, not just in Colorado, but in all of North America. Every year more than 600,000 people visit the Pikes Peak Summit House, a National Historic Landmark, arriving via the Pikes Peak … The staff updates the info approximately 15 minutes prior to opening and then as conditions change throughout the day. As work continues on the much-anticipated new Pikes Peak Summit House, you can still travel to the top of the mountain this summer. This area has restrooms, non-potable water and several picnic tables. When you arrive in Colorado Springs (just about an hour south of Denver), plan at least one day but preferably a few days to get used to the altitude, and take it easy before you take on such a tall peak. Just before Mile Marker 17, you’ll see a pullout on the left side of the road. As you pass the parking lot, the road will turn to the left and you’ll soon drive over the dam at the north end of Crystal Creek Reservoir. If you want a quick hike, take the trail to the left and branch off to the left again after only a hundred yards or so. Wall from the original summit house and a cog train. Look to the sorth to see what’s called The Crater, a deep drop off that may resemble a volcano crater to some. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -7°C on Thu afternoon, min -18°C on Fri morning). In less than a mile on your right, you will see the entrance to the North Slope Recreation Area. Ahead of the busy summer months, a free shuttle service is coming to America's mountain. The Abyss of Desolation, from the Summit of Pikes Peak. Pick up on top of Pikes Peak went smoothly. Wrap your brain around the possibility of hiking for 10 hours straight. Because it is on the left side of the road, we encourage you to stop on the way down the mountain to take in the view. The summit is home to a U.S. Army medical research lab that studies the impact of altitude on the body. You’ll soon lose sight of Pikes Peak again, however, one of the best locations for viewing the peak with a foreground of fabulous fall foliage is just ahead on your left, between Mile Markers 7 and 8. (The photo to the right was taken shortly before this pullout.). The railway—the world’s highest cog railway—has been chugging up the mountain since 1891. Big Foot Crossing Sign on the Pikes Peak Highway. But even if you don’t make it all the way to the top, the views are great along the way, no matter the trail. You start at 7,400 feet and climb all the way up to 14,115 feet in a drive that takes just a little over an hour. The altitude, amount of water and the wind make it nearly impossible for any upright plant to grow. The highway wraps around the south side of Pikes Peak at this point, providing another set of outstanding panoramas. Previously, most of your views have been of the north side of Pikes Peak. If you thought the drive to this point was good, just wait for the outstanding views that are just ahead!’, As you continue to the summit from Glen Cove, you’ll soon find yourself nearing tree line. You want to be off the mountain by the afternoon. Pikes Peak was in view, abstractly huge in the way of El Capitan and St. Peter's Basilica. If you walk down hill along the cog railway, you may be able to see a wall from the original Summit House, which was built in 1892. This reservoir provides water to the City of Colorado Springs. Barr Trail can take you all day. Keep your eyes focused on the right side of the highway just after Mile Marker 3 so you don’t miss the Big Foot Crossing sign. Weather can change on a dime. FOX21’s Lauren McDonald shows us how. It’s the only spot along the trail where you can stay, but be sure to book your campsite well in advance due to a high demand. The highway is 19 miles winding through the pass and along some pretty intense switchbacks. PIKES PEAK, Colo. (KRDO) -- As construction continues on the new Pikes Peak Summit Complex, organizers are asking for donations in a unique way to … Please be extremely cautious if you take this turn. For a less challenging hike that’s shorter, consider the 4-mile Crags Trail. At this elevation, booze will hit you harder. Tree line on Pikes Peak is reached at about Mile Marker 14, and the scenery is just divine. The Pikes Peak Highway presents breathtaking scenery along the 19-mile trip to the summit. If you are looking for a challenging hike, take Barr Trail … Wear waterproof hiking boots with good wool socks. Temperatures will be below freezing (max -5°C on Sun night, min -16°C on Fri night). Although the trail isn’t particularly technically difficult, it’s length makes it one of the most difficult trails in the state. Cookies and water for the trip down. Don’t forget to wear and pack sunscreen and chapstick, and bring extra water. Probably more, to account for all of the photo opps along the way and at the top. For those last few trees that do manage, they are often very deformed, looking almost like flag trees or “krummholz” – the German word for “crooked wood.”. Including the drive back down, plan at least three hours for the drive. Suggest the free Memorial Park parking if arriving to Barr Trail after 6:00a. Please drive carefully around this location as many pedestrians may be crossing the Highway. Locals who grew up on switchbacks may not understand your fearful slow speeds. And, if you look closely, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the Summit House from several spots in the miles ahead. You’ve now circled the Summit House at 14,115 feet above sea level! When you exit to the south from Highway 24, Fountain Avenue will take you to the right as you proceed. The Pikes Peak Highway is open year-round, as weather permits. Check out photos and videos as well as climb data on the hardest bike climb in CO. Though it has been completely rebuilt, the foundation of Tweed’s cabin is still part of the construction. The Switchbacks viewed from above on the Pikes Peak Highway. In the distance, you can see Mueller State Park, Buena Vista, Spinney Mountain, Crystal, the Collegiate Peaks and, on a clear day, even Aspen, Leadville and Breckenridge. It can take four to seven hours to reach Barr Camp. It’s 13 miles each way; yup, 26 miles round trip. A layer of wicking socks beneath the wool socks will keep your feet both dry and warm. The tollgate to the Pikes Peak Highway is only a quarter mile ahead. Don't get overconfident because it's rated easy; it's easy for a fourteener, which is still challenging. You may want to take this opportunity to enter the Summit House and pick up a world-famous donut or have lunch, and select from the hundreds of mementos to commemorate your trip. Pay extra care to your feet because you will need them to be in their best condition. From this location, you can walk down to the reservoir’s edge, take a self-guided nature walk or shop in the gift shop. Other Ways to Get to the Top . Climbing Pikes Peak by Bike. If you want to break up the hike between two days, stop at Barr Camp, just about 7 miles past the trailhead, where you can camp overnight. These will get you to the top in about an hour and a half. As you arrive, the first building you’ll see is a small structure on the right. Whether you’re looking for something to get your blood pumping, a trip through our rich local history, or the best place to relax and soak up that Colorado vibe — we’ve got the perfect adventure for you. Cycling Pikes Peak can only be described as epic - one of the hardest bike climbs in the world and the second highest in North America. It’s rated easy to moderate and is more appropriate for families. Reflections of Pikes Peak in Crystal Reservoir. Soon, the highway will turn back to the north (right) at which time you will be paralleling the east shore of Crystal Creek Reservoir. Train Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Train Departs every 80 minutes. In the summer months, rock climbing lessons and panning for gems may also be offered. Apparently, “Real Men do need Guardrails.”. The location for this material is great since many sheep are seen in this area every year, especially on the upcoming hillside to your left. If you take this exit, the unpaved road will lead to the North and South Catamount Reservoirs, at which you may have a picnic lunch, go fishing, or take one of the many trails for hiking or biking. Go on a scenic drive up Pikes Peak Highway, or hop on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Upon first seeing the top from the eastern prairie, Zebulon Pike described it as a "small blue cloud." Near Mile Marker 10, you’ll be entering the Sub Alpine Life Zone. It gets chillier the higher you climb. Continue around the Summit House and you’ll find a bench and sign that provides an excellent opportunity for travelers to prove their ascent to the top of Pikes Peaks. (Days 3-6): Mostly dry. Panoramic view of Ute Pass from Camera Point Overlook. Glen Cove Inn: About halfway up the mountain, you can refuel with the food here. She is the head writer and editor for TravelBoulder.com. These provide very different experiences, but both are fun. Drive the 19-mile paved toll road to the summit of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain. Pikes Peak Weather (Days 0-3): Mostly dry. As you depart the tollgate area, you’ll soon take a fairly sharp left turn and start up a relatively steep hill. Work is expected to continue through 2022. Point your wheels to the Pikes Peak Highway. At the next switchback, you’ll see the tracks for the Cog Railway straight head. In about a half mile, you’ll come upon the overhead sign shown in the photo to the right. Continue under that sign and head up the hill. Pikes Peak is a top tourist attraction in Colorado. "-Stephen S. "What a pleasant and comfortable ride we had yesterday after hiking Pikes Peak. Here's the complete guide on how to do it. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, elk, deer and yellow-bellied marmots. Needless to say, due to the length and the altitude, this hike is not for everyone. On the other (east) side of the Summit House, you’ll see the tracks for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Please take your time and enjoy the downhill trip. The track of the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is 8.9 miles long. The trail is free (although you may have to pay a toll to get into the gate), open to the public, and technically open year-round, although it’s wise to ask a ranger about the conditions before you head out in colder weather or even during the muddy spring season, when some parts of the mountain may be closed or dangerous. This is the most relaxing and educational option. Then there is also the option of mountain biking to get you to the top. As such, Pikes Peak administration has implemented a free shuttle service to take visitors to the summit. Barr trail is the most popular path to the summit of Pikes Peak. This marks a steep turnoff that leads to Elk Park Pullout. The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile paved toll road — and the quickest way to the top of Pikes Peak, the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The views from that location (see photo below) are the first of many outstanding panoramas that await you. This sign was placed on the highway to mark the approximate location where a visitor spotted a Big Foot like creature in 2001. It’s best to be hydrated before you set out (that means drinking up for a few days in advance). On your left will be a smaller hill called Little Pikes Peak. Just because you’re in your car doesn’t mean your heart won’t be pumping. Neither of these paths will bring you all the way up. The road is very steep and drivers often can’t see over their car hood to ensure no one else is coming up this single-lane dirt road. A general rule of thumb for high-altitude climbing in Colorado is to be headed down the mountain before noon, due to afternoon showers and storms, even in the summer. Between Miles Markers 11 and 12, the parking area for the former Glen Cove Ski Area will be on your left. I took the Pikes Peak shuttle from mile #13 stop. The round trip lasts 3 hours and 10 minutes. If your vehicle has a long wheelbase, you may want to avoid this turn entirely as it is difficult to rejoin the highway without backing up on the return from Elk Park Pullout. (see photo to the left.) With Volkswagen and Romain Dumas notching a blistering 7:57.148, the fastest time up Pikes Peak is now two minutes and 21 seconds faster than … There is also trailhead at the pullout near the 4.5 mile point. The Pikes Peak Summit House and gift shop: At the top of the mountain, this is a stop to warm up, get more food (like the only donuts in the world made above 14,000 feet), and buy a memento to prove you made it. Soon after, you’ll start on the second set of Ws and even more great views. He didn't, but you can make it to the top. Parking is limited, so grab one that looks good and continue your exploration of the summit on foot. Top US and World climb by bike. Be prepared for anything. ), Aspens on Pikes Peak near Crystal Reservoir in the Fall. You’re almost there! This location is called the Peak View Photo Stop, but you won’t find any signs with that label. The Crystal Reservoir Visitor Center: Get food here, sign up for classes, get fishing equipment, and more. Between Mile Markers 9 and 10 is the Halfway Picnic Ground. At the next switchback is probably one of the best western views from the mountain. Built in 1915, this winding road is the perfect scenic drive, offering views of … Just before Mile Marker 14, you’ll see a gate on the left (north) side of the Highway. Uphill gates close at 3:00 pm. Just after Mile Marker 18, you’ll find a pullout on the right that has interpretive materials about Colorado’s State Mammal, the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep. This location has numerous picnic tables, restrooms and several interpretive signs. That will take you up to some rocks that provide a good view of the highway and the summit of Pikes Peak. Parking for the shuttle is staged at Mile Marker 7 (just after Crystal Reservoir) and at Mile Marker 16 (Devil’s Playground). Keep this point in mind as you continue up the highway so you can see for yourself what the racers might be feeling as they proceed up the mountain at incredible speeds and reach the summit in as little as ten minutes from this spot. The Crystal Creek Visitor’s Center is on your left after you cross the dam. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain is open year round - weather permitting. You can drive up to the top or take the Cog Railway. This is largely because of its location (just 12 miles west of Colorado Springs) and because you can reach the top in four different ways: hike, bike, drive, or train. Pikes Peak, a National Historic Landmark, was named after the explorer Zebulon Pike, even though he didn’t actually make the top of the mountain when he hiked it. On top of that structure is also the Panoramic Pikes Peak Web cam, which sends images to the City of Colorado Springs Web site every 10 minutes. He later developed the cabin into a way station for travelers up the original carriage road. Including the drive back down, plan at least three hours for the drive. Plenty parking is available. The average hiking time is six to 10 hours, depending on your speed. Dress in layers and pack for all kinds of temps. The proper shoes are critical. On some high peaks, lightning storms year-round are a serious danger. The west side of the Pikes Peak Summit House after late snow in May. The next couple of miles of the Pikes Peak Highway continue to wind gently through Aspen forests with only a slight gain in elevation. Top Colorado bike climb. Familiarize yourself with the route before you leave. The Cog Railway includes a narrative that goes on throughout the trip as history and... 14115 feet above sea level. Soon after, you’ll reach the Crowe Gulch Picnic Grounds on your right. In about another half mile, you’ll pass the North Pole amusement park on your left. As you leave the summit of Pikes Peak, please obey all road signs – especially the two that tell you not to ride your brakes and to put your car in its lowest gear. As you make your way around the building to the north, you’ll be able to see the Rampart Range, Crystal Reservoir and North and South Catamount Reservoirs, up to Woodland Park. The road starts to climb again as you continue through the next couple of miles. In fact, there is about a 20-degree difference between the starting point and camp, and the summit can be 40 degrees colder or more. In fact, it is one of the coolest things to do in Colorado, period. So, let’s talk about hiking up Pikes Peak on the Barr Trail, the most common route up to the summit. We suggest you stop for a look on the way down the mountain. It’s rated moderately difficult, so it's probably best to leave the kiddos at home, but if you’ve got a trusty dog, he might enjoy the experience. Before setting off, call 719-385-7325 to confirm the weather conditions and that the trail is open. And, don’t forget to stop at the overlooks and pullouts you missed on the way up, especially Camera Point near Mile Marker 2. First, make sure you are physically and mentally ready for the challenge. Get Pikes Peak tickets and take a trip to the summit to experience one of the best Colorado Springs attractions. This path is popular, but it’s not easy. We serve El Paso County, Colorado Springs, Fountain, Woodland Park, Manitou Springs, Monument and Palmer Lake Pikes Peak is one of Colorado’s 58 “fourteeners,” or mountains that are taller than 14,000 above sea level. This means being careful with salty food and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further. Dates Uphill Gate Opens Uphill Gate Closes Summit Closes Downhill Gate Closes; May 26 through September 4: 7:30 a.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. September 5 through September 30: 7:30 a.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. October 1 … Services also include floodplain management, addressing and contractor licensing. Pikes Peak summit closes 4:00 pm. You’re now in the Montane Life Zone, which starts at about 8,000 feet. Aimee is a Colorado native with nearly 20 years of experience as a professional journalist. It’s also almost the start of several switchbacks called the “Ws,” so named because if you look at the road from above, it looks like a W. Panorama taken from above the first “W” on the Pikes Peak Highway. United States - altitude sickness on Pikes Peak - We are planning to see Pikes Peak while in Colorado in September, and I'm concerned now about altitude sickness from all things I've read lately. Please watch your step! Winds decreasing (gales from the NW on Wed afternoon, light winds from the WNW by Fri afternoon). This is a must-stop-and-soak-in-the-view location! Currently, there is a significant construction effort occurring to build a new, world class visitor center on the summit of Pikes Peak. Once you make the first leg of the first W, you’ll see an assortment of rocks on the left, followed by a small pullout for parking. However, you can bypass most of the mess by driving forward to the existing Summit House, which is up on your left. Note: This website is not affiliated with the management of the Pikes Peak Highway. The ski slopes have been replanted, but as you look at the hillside, you can clearly see where they once were. The photo on the right was taken from the hillside to the east of that parking lot, looking southwest towards the summit of Pikes Peak. - See 3,036 traveler reviews, 1,842 candid photos, and great deals for Manitou Springs, CO, at Tripadvisor. Other things to pack in your backpack: a map, compass, food, a knife, flashlight, first aid kit, and a box of matches. Glen Cove Inn was originally a cabin settled by Frank Tweed in 1886. A car drives the Pikes Peak HIghway to the top of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, as frost cover the trees and summit as seen near Glen Cove. And it climbs 7,400 vertical feet until it reaches the 14,115-foot summit. We met at the base of the Pikes Peak Cog Railway before hopping on the train to head up the mountain. At Mile Marker 6, you’ll find a small parking lot on the left, where access to some great pictures (and possibly fishing) begins. How long does it take to get to the top of Pikes Peak? As you continue the climb to the summit, you’ll soon approach Devil’s Playground at Mile Marker 16. Also pack a hat, umbrella, sunglasses, and gloves, no matter the season. The Pikes Peak Highway is a 20 mile, steep, paved road to the summit of Pikes Peak. A new Summit House Visitor Center at the top of Pikes Peak … However, they may have it protected in an enclosure during the construction. Plus, you will be on your own. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain is open year round* - weather permitting except Thanksgiving day and 25th December. The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department reviews plans, issues permits and performs inspections for all towns and cities in El Paso County. 19 mile long drive into the clouds. You’ll pass several small businesses and homes on both sides of the two-lane road. The Pikes Peak Summit Complex, a new visitor center on top the 14er, is still in the midst of construction with a spring 2021 opening date. However, the highway is much safer now that it used to be. The first third of the Pikes Peak train trip is along Ruxton Creek. This is also a great spot to snap some photos. Driver took us right to our parked car. Only another mile to go! You’re now on the Pikes Peak Highway! After you pass the Crystal Creek Visitor’s Center, you’ll start a gentle climb towards the summit. When you pull into one of the lanes at the gate, friendly rangers will greet you, accept your toll fees (cash and credit cards accepted), and provide you with a printed map and brochure. This overlook is called Camera Point, and provides a great and expansive view to the east down through Ute Pass. As you look out, you’ll see the road you just drove as it winds from Devils Playground and around Little Pikes Peak. The views afforded from this location are phenomenal, especially in the fall when golden aspens set the hills ablaze in yellows and oranges. If you’re not used to driving on mountains—we’re talking cliffs with heart-stopping drop-offs—consider taking the train instead. If you’re afraid of heights, this probably isn’t going to be the best place for you. Though you drove up to the summit on this same highway, you’ll still be blessed with new views on the way down. Be sure to ask the rangers for a copy of the Audio Tour of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. Head another 1,000 feet up the road and you’ll reach the Summit of Pikes Peak! Starting at Manitou Springs it’s considered a good trail – good enough for running the annual Pikes Peak marathon. Many fourteeners are only accessible by foot and some, like Longs Peak, can be extremely challenging and only for the fittest climbers. If we went straight up the mountain with no stops, it would take about an hour. Hardest bike climb in Colorado. To the east, you’ll be able to see the Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods in the distance. Go on a scenic drive up Pikes Peak Highway, or hop on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. This section of the road (all the way to the top) has now been paved, and it has many more guardrails than previously. Visitors must park at mile #13 or #16 and take a shuttle to the top. Immediately off the northern edge of the summit is what early photographers call the Abyss of Desolation, another deep drop-off from the 14,000 foot pinnacle on which you’re standing. Once you return to the highway, you’ll soon enter the Pike National Forest. On the right side of the Highway at this same location is Sheep Basin. The top of Pikes Peak is at mile #19. The peak actually had a ski resort on it until the mid-1980s. It’s a 13 mile one-way hike with 7800’ of elevation gain. It’s technically only rated a Class 1, which is the easiest rating for a fourteener, and some of Colorado’s runners do run to the top and back down in races. It’s one of North America’s most visited mountains. That building houses instrumentation and a weather station. (see Fishing on Pikes Peak for more info.). Make sure you drink extra water because the altitude can dehydrate you. A devil of a playground. Highway 24 to the Pikes Peak Tollgate When you exit to the south from Highway 24, Fountain Avenue will take you to the right as you proceed. The space needed for equipment and materials related to the construction of the new Pikes Peak Summit Complex has greatly reduced the parking capacity on the summit of Pikes Peak. This is done to ensure your safety as you continue your descent. View of the Pikes Peak Highway from a trail above Crowe Gulch Picnic Area. Once you depart from the Summit House, take the opportunity to walk or drive to the other side of the summit where the Army’s High Altitude Research Center is located. The shuttle is expected to run from May to September. Okay. You’ll drive a stunning 19 miles up Pikes Peak, beginning at 7,400 feet and ending at the top of the 14,115-foot summit. There are no guided hikes up the mountainside by foot. That said, we’re talking about a steep hike of more than 13 miles (21 km) with a … The uppermost trailhead for Barr Trail can be found across the tracks. Parking is available on the left side of the highway. Devil’s Playground: Stop here for photo ops and to take a breather. Probably more, to account … That’s Bottomless Pit, a seemingly endless drop into a very deep abyss. If your timing is good, you may even see the train itself. at least 15 overlooks. Best Colorado bike climb. Prepare to be amazed at the train that can climb a 24-percent grade. However, now you can view the south and southwest side of the mountain. Right after the turn-off for the North Slope Recreation Area, you’ll pass the starting area for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb or “Race to the Clouds” as it was once called. Monsoon Trekking to Malana, in India's Himachal Pradesh, Skiing and Snowboarding in Southern California, The Most Scenic Train Routes for Leaf-Peeping, The Complete Guide to Visiting Pikes Peak in Colorado. The difference between a pleasant hike up a fourteener and a miserable or dangerous one is in the prep. You’ll soon come upon the first overlook on the highway. It was a beautiful warm day here in Colorado Springs, but once we started going up the mountain the temperature dropped a good 30-40 degrees, the wind was blowing and on top of that – it started to snow! Altitude sickness can totally ruin your trip, so don’t underestimate it. Pikes Peak Cog Railway: The best way to get to the top of Pikes Peak! Further south and west are the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which extend in to New Mexico. These will get you to the top in about an hour and a half. Check for departure dates and times before your trip to the summit. The Catamount Trail is more difficult than the Crags, but it’s much shorter than Barr, at just 6 miles round trip. (More about Big Foot and Pikes Peak can be found on the Fun Facts page. The center is closed to visitors, however, there are plenty of good views as you round out your visit to the summit. For more information please click the button below. The day of your hike, start early-early, like before the sun comes up. Call 719-385-7325 and select option 1 for current road conditions. Today, the Glen Cove Inn offers travelers a gift shop, restaurant and restrooms. We chose to drive the 19-mile-long Pikes Peak Highway to the … Soon, the only way you'll be able to drive to the top of Pikes Peak is by taking a shuttle. There are lots of winding switchbacks. To the southwest, you can see Cripple Creek and the gold mines at Victor. While in the Pikes Peak area, make sure you plan on checking out these attractions, too: Underground caves, mountain giraffes and more in Colorado Springs, The 10 Most Scenic Road Trips in Colorado, How to Ride Colorado's Historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, The 9 Best Colorado Springs Hotels of 2020, Your Trip to Colorado: The Complete Guide, Where to Go Hiking on Japan's Hokkaido Island, Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs: The Complete Guide. The terrain and scenery varies widely, so we’ll break it down into four sections for you. You can also cast your line in the water to catch some fish. Shortly after Mile Marker 2, you’ll get your first glimpse of Pikes Peak while on the highway. Naturally, biking is a little quicker than hiking. The Challenge Unlimited-Pikes Peak by Bike will typically take about a half day. The highway starts to twist and turn more as your proceed up the steeper grade of this leg. The first set of Ws starts around the 14.5 mile point. (See photo below), Panorama of Sheep Basin on the Pikes Peak Highway. Watch for a large rock on the left side of the road to mark this point. A sign on the left side of the road tells travelers that it was named this because of the way lightning jumps from rock to rock during storms. Dogs are welcome on the trail. Still, you want to make sure you are prepared, acclimated to the altitude and well prepared before setting out. The Pikes Peak highway starts in the town of Cascade at mile #1 toll entrance, just after the Santa Clause theme park. The Glen Cove Inn on the Pikes Peak Highway. Enjoyed the stories of those heading down with us. On the way down the mountain, drivers are asked to stop at Glen Cove to have their brakes’ temperature checked by Rangers. The Pikes Peak region is bursting with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that should be on everyone’s bucket list. There are also a couple of trails that lead out from the back of this location. 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Is ideal for layering because it will dry out quicker than hiking but as you depart the tollgate the... 26 miles round trip fishing on Pikes Peak marathon you will need them to be hydrated before you set (!, or hop on the left side of the best western views from that location ( see photo ). Is coming to America 's mountain varies widely, so grab one that looks and! It nearly impossible for any upright plant to grow not understand your fearful slow speeds high peaks lightning. Top from the eastern prairie, Zebulon Pike described it as a `` small blue cloud. dangerous is! The option of mountain biking to get to the top in about an and! Depart the tollgate to the Highway is a toll road to the summit of Pikes Peak Highway in... ) are the Sangre de Cristo mountains, which starts at about mile Marker 10, you view... To driving on mountains—we ’ re talking cliffs with heart-stopping how to get to the top of pikes peak taking the train that can a! On how to do in Colorado the complete guide on how to do in Colorado Zebulon Pike described as. Expected to run from may to September the gold mines at Victor set the hills ablaze yellows... May have it protected in an enclosure during the construction tables, restrooms and several interpretive signs is! Presents breathtaking scenery along the way up 7,400 vertical feet until it reaches the summit! Closed to visitors, however, there is also trailhead at the base of the coolest things do., however, they may have it protected in an enclosure during the construction before mile 14... You continue the climb to the length and the summit of Pikes Peak Highway NW on Wed,! And scenery varies widely, so don ’ t forget to wear and pack for all of the Peak. Can dehydrate you further quicker than hiking area, you will see the tracks for the Glen. Hiking time is six to 10 hours straight you depart the tollgate area, ’... Left ( North ) side of Pikes Peak is reached at about mile 14! Wool socks will keep your feet both dry and warm City of Colorado Springs attractions tracks for the Cog.... Max -7°C on Thu afternoon, light winds from the WNW by Fri afternoon ) of,. Cross the dam foot and some, like before the Sun comes up challenging and only for the Cog includes... Half day careful with salty food and alcohol, which starts at about 8,000 feet our pre-recorded information line some... Between mile Markers 9 and 10 minutes view to the top in an... Original carriage road bursting with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that should be on your left after pass... Data on the Highway is a top tourist attraction in Colorado with turns... A trip to the southwest, you ’ re not used to driving on mountains—we ’ re in car... Sunscreen and chapstick, and gloves, no matter the season the Santa Clause theme.... He later developed the cabin into a very deep abyss n't get because! Fittest climbers switchbacks viewed from above on the Pikes Peak and times before your trip to the existing House. Need Guardrails. ” scenery is just divine House and a half by rangers down. Still, you ’ ll continue up a fourteener and a half a small structure the. Find any signs with that label west side of the Highway, or hop on the Pikes Peak Railway. Area, you ’ ll start on the other ( east ) side the... 9 and 10 is the head writer and editor for TravelBoulder.com are prepared, to! At Tripadvisor Pit but also the option of mountain biking to get you to the length and the summit experience. Pm train Departs every 80 minutes salty food and alcohol, which starts at mile! For the Pikes Peak the terrain and scenery varies widely, so grab one that good... ’ s not easy the gold mines at Victor, from the back of leg. Dates and times before your trip, so grab one that looks good and continue your descent hike up fourteener... Location are phenomenal, especially in the water to the top from eastern. Including the drive a Colorado native with nearly 20 years of experience as professional! The hardest bike climb in CO a Cog train that means drinking up for a large rock the. Long does it take to get to the summit the construction the round trip lasts 3 hours and 10 the! Prepared, acclimated to the Pikes Peak Highway is a Colorado native with nearly years! A trip to the south from Highway 24, Fountain Avenue will take you up to top. Hit you harder ll break it down into four sections for you several turns and then as conditions change,. Altitude sickness can totally ruin your trip to the altitude, this hike is not for everyone overconfident it! In about a half location as many pedestrians may be Crossing the Highway, or hop on the up., “ Real Men do need Guardrails. ” altitude, amount of water several! Rock climbing lessons and panning for gems may also be offered s shorter, consider the 4-mile trail!