Standing 14,115ft (4032m) tall, Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic mountains in Colorado – and in all the USA. Indeed, in 1893, a teacher named Katharine Lee Bates was so moved by the panoramic views from the summit that she penned a poem that later became “America the Beautiful.”
Today, “America’s Mountain” continues to wow visitors with its amazing vistas: when the weather is clear, you can see all the way to Nebraska, New Mexico, Kansas, Oklahoma and Wyoming from the summit. A top way to take in this towering landmark for yourself is by driving your personal vehicle all the way to the summit.
Here’s what to know as you start planning this only–in–the USA road trip.
Pikes Peak is roughly 100 miles (161km) south of Denver; with traffic, the drive usually takes a little more than two hours. Once you reach Colorado Springs, you’ll head northwest toward the town of Cascade, where the 19-mile (30½km) paved Pikes Peak Hwy begins.
Distance: 19 miles (30½km) one way, 38 miles (61km) round trip
Starting elevation: 7400ft (2255½m)
Ending elevation: 14,115ft (4032m)
Drive time: Two to three hours round trip with stops – but budget three to four hours so you can stop and explore along the way.
Fuel: Start with at least half a tank of gas or a full battery charge, as there are no gas stations or electric vehicle-charging ports on the way to the summit.
Packing: Bring layers, as the summit will be colder and windier than at lower altitudes. Also, pack sun protection and plenty of water to help stave off sunburns and altitude sickness.
Audio tour: Before you start the drive, get the TravelStorysGPS app, then download the free audio driving tour for Pikes Peak.
Cost and reservations: Timed-entry permits are required to drive to the summit between the Thursday before Memorial Day and September 30, and cost $2 each. All year long, you also need a one-day admission ticket or an annual pass.
Hours: The highway is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In the summer, the uphill gate opens at 7:30am and closes at 6pm.
Safety: Call 719-385-7325 for up-to-date road and weather conditions. Only stop at the designated pullouts. Parents are advised against bringing infants under the age of 6 months to the summit; visitors with heart or respiratory issues are also advised against making the drive. Pull-behind trailers or campers, ATVs, OHVs, skateboards, longboards and some mopeds and scooters are not allowed to make the drive to the summit.
Crystal Creek Reservoir
About 6 miles into the drive up, you’ll arrive at Crystal Creek Reservoir. Here, you can stretch your legs on the hiking trails, cast a fishing line, have a picnic and buy souvenirs and snacks in the gift shop. You can also
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