Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Ride the world's highest cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak, a historic journey with unparalleled mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's highest cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak, a historic journey with unparalleled mountain views.
"The ride itself was absolutely breathtaking with incredible views all the way up!"
🎯 Book Front Row Seats
Secure the best views by booking front-row seats on the train. They offer an unobstructed panoramic experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Acclimated
Bring water and consider supplemental oxygen for altitude. Altitude sickness is real at 14,115 ft!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Pikes Peak Summit
Experience breathtaking panoramic vistas from 14,115 feet. See the vast Colorado landscape unfold beneath you.
The Cog Railway Journey
Manitou Springs Station to Pikes Peak Summit
Ride the world's highest cog railway, a historic and scenic adventure offering unparalleled mountain scenery.
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Wildlife Spotting
Along the railway route
Keep an eye out for native wildlife like bighorn sheep, marmots, and deer during your ascent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Altitude Awareness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Front Row Seats
Secure the best views by booking front-row seats on the train. They offer an unobstructed panoramic experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Acclimated
Bring water and consider supplemental oxygen for altitude. Altitude sickness is real at 14,115 ft! +1
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures at the summit can be significantly colder than at the base. Pack layers for comfort.
📸 Best Views: Facing Up
Sit on the side facing uphill for the most scenic views. The conductor is often humorous too!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Front Row Seats
Secure the best views by booking front-row seats on the train. They offer an unobstructed panoramic experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Acclimated
Bring water and consider supplemental oxygen for altitude. Altitude sickness is real at 14,115 ft! +1
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures at the summit can be significantly colder than at the base. Pack layers for comfort.
📸 Best Views: Facing Up
Sit on the side facing uphill for the most scenic views. The conductor is often humorous too!
🛍️ Summit vs. Base Shopping
Gift shops at the base station are recommended over the summit for better selection and prices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway for its breathtaking views and unique historical journey. The informative and engaging guides, along with the chance to spot wildlife, are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. However, some guests note the limited time at the summit and the potential for altitude sickness, advising preparedness.
"The Cog Railway was a fun family experience for us. I have personally hiked, biked, and driven on Pikes Peak over the years, so it was exciting to finally take the train! Amazing views, an informative and humorous guide, clear instructions on timing to board and return, kept everything right on time. Lots of wildlife around like marmots, big horn sheep and deer. It was unfortunately a bit cloudy at the top the day we visited, but on the train the views were great! Reasonable prices. Time at the top is limited so I would recommend doing the gift shop at the base instead of the summit."
Douglas Hunter
"I had the best experience on the Cog Railway! The ride itself was absolutely breathtaking with incredible views all the way up, but what made it even better was our guide, Luna. She was so sweet, personable, and knowledgeable. She shared fun facts and stories that made the trip both engaging and memorable. You can tell she genuinely enjoys what she does, and it made the whole experience that much more special. Highly recommend riding the Cog Railway, and if you’re lucky enough to have Luna as your guide, you’re in for a treat!"
Tiffany Ferentheil
"The conductor was hilarious. It was a great ride! I recommend getting seats in the 3 row and seats facing up the mountain. I also recommend bringing a can of boost oxygen. We are in our 40's and our O2 levels dropped to the 60's and got dizzy and shaky. After the oxygen we were okay. You only get about 40 minutes at the top but we didn't need that much. Oh and the donuts are awful. Be sure to wear a hat as the sun shines in the train and windows up is a better view as standing is not allowed. No bathrooms on the train and lines are long prior to leaving but no lines at the top. Oh and do not have a small bag of chips in your bag on the way up mine nearly exploded."
Lilfayj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The railway station is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Many visitors also combine a trip with stays at The Broadmoor hotel or explore nearby Colorado Springs.
Yes, the Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway is less than 1.5 hours from Denver, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on a longer Colorado road trip.
Parking is available at the Manitou Springs station. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during busy periods, to secure a spot.
While direct public transport to the station might be limited, you can reach Manitou Springs via regional bus services from Colorado Springs. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The modern train cars are designed for accessibility. It's recommended to contact the railway directly to discuss specific needs and ensure a comfortable experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but reviews suggest they are reasonably priced for the experience. It's best to check the official website for current pricing and booking information.
Tickets are best purchased online through the official Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway website. Booking in advance is highly recommended as tickets sell out quickly.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is strongly advised, especially during peak travel seasons and holidays, to guarantee your spot on the train.
The round trip on the Cog Railway typically takes about 3 hours, including time spent at the summit of Pikes Peak.
While specific promo codes are not widely advertised, keep an eye on the official website or local tourism sites for potential package deals or seasonal offers. The keyword 'the broadmoor manitou and pikes peak cog railway promo code' has low search volume, suggesting they are not common.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The summit of Pikes Peak is at an elevation of 14,115 feet (4,302 meters) above sea level. Be prepared for the thin air!
You typically have about 40 minutes at the summit to explore, take photos, and visit the visitor center before boarding the train back down. +1
At the summit, you can visit the visitor center, grab a famous donut (though reviews suggest they might be disappointing), shop for souvenirs, and most importantly, take in the incredible panoramic views. +1
Standing is not allowed on the train during the journey for safety reasons. You'll need to remain seated.
No, there are no bathrooms on the train itself. You'll need to use the facilities at the station before departure or at the summit visitor center.
🍽️ 🍩 Food & Dining
There are no food services directly on the train. You can purchase snacks and drinks at the visitor center at the summit, though some reviews mention the donuts are not great.
The summit visitor center offers a small cafe with snacks and drinks. For a more substantial meal, consider dining at The Broadmoor before or after your train ride.
You can bring your own water and snacks. Be mindful of packaging, as changes in air pressure can affect sealed items like chip bags.
Manitou Springs offers a variety of charming restaurants and cafes near the railway station. The Broadmoor hotel also provides upscale dining experiences.
Reviews are mixed, with some finding them disappointing. It might be worth trying for the novelty, but don't expect a gourmet experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the train windows, especially if you secure a seat facing uphill. The summit also offers incredible panoramic shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget extra batteries, as the cold can drain them faster.
The train moves slowly, making it relatively easy to capture clear photos from the windows. However, be mindful of reflections on the glass.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, weather conditions at the summit can change rapidly, so be prepared for any lighting.
No, for safety reasons, you cannot stand up or move around the train during the journey. All photography must be done from your seat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking seats facing uphill for the best views, and keep an eye out for the conductor's humorous commentary, which can entertain younger passengers. The limited time at the summit means you'll need to be efficient with photos and souvenir shopping, so prioritize what's most important for your family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your trip with exploring the charming town of Manitou Springs, which offers free attractions like the Manitou Cliff Dwellings (entry fee applies) or simply enjoying the town's atmosphere. Many visitors also find value in visiting nearby Garden of the Gods, which is free to enter and offers stunning natural beauty.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Securing a seat facing uphill provides continuous scenic framing through the windows. Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots. Be prepared for changing light conditions and the challenges of shooting through train windows, such as reflections.
The summit visitor center also offers unique perspectives, and the historic train itself is a photogenic subject. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Cog Railway Experience
+1 The unique cog system allows the train to climb steep gradients, providing an unforgettable experience as you climb towards the clouds. Travelers often praise the informative and humorous guides who share fascinating facts about the mountain's geology, history, and wildlife.
While the destination is the summit, the ride itself is a significant part of the attraction. The engineering marvel of the cog railway, combined with the natural beauty of Pikes Peak, makes this a truly special adventure. It's a fantastic way to reach the summit without the strenuous effort of hiking or the long drive.
Navigating the Altitude at Pikes Peak
Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your trip. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you further. Some travelers recommend bringing supplemental oxygen cans, which can be purchased at local stores or sometimes at the base station, to help alleviate symptoms.
When you reach the summit, take it easy. Avoid strenuous activity for the first 15-20 minutes. Listen to your body and descend if symptoms become severe. The visitor center at the summit provides basic amenities and information, but it's wise to be prepared with your own supplies.
Seasonal Beauty of Pikes Peak
While the summit might be more challenging to access or experience fully due to weather, the journey through the snow-covered mountains is magical. Spring and Fall bring vibrant colors to the mountainsides. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and returning wildlife, while autumn showcases a spectacular display of golden aspens and crisp mountain air.
Summer provides lush green scenery and generally more stable weather, making it a popular time for visitors to enjoy the full panoramic views and explore the summit area comfortably. Regardless of the season, the changing weather conditions are part of the Pikes Peak experience. Always check the forecast and dress accordingly. The railway operates year-round, providing a unique perspective of Colorado's natural beauty no matter when you visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit