Pikes Peak Summit
Ascend to 'America's Mountain' for unparalleled panoramic views and a taste of world-famous donuts at 14,115 feet.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Limited dates, incredible views
Pikes Peak Summit
Best Time
Limited dates, incredible views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to 'America's Mountain' for unparalleled panoramic views and a taste of world-famous donuts at 14,115 feet.
"The best donuts with the best view! Donuts on a mountain up in the clouds?! Count us in!"
🚗 Drive Smart Downhill
Use 1st gear or 1L to prevent brake overheating on descent . Apply brakes firmly, not continuously .
🧥 Pack Layers!
Temperatures can be cold and change rapidly, even in summer. Snow is possible year-round .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Donuts
Summit Visitor Center
World-famous donuts made at the highest altitude donut shop on Earth. A must-try treat!
Panoramic Summit Views
Pikes Peak Summit
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views stretching for miles across the Colorado landscape.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Manitou Springs Depot
An iconic journey ascending nearly 8,000 feet, offering stunning scenery and a unique travel experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Pikes Peak
Mastering the Mountain Drive
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Smart Downhill
Use 1st gear or 1L to prevent brake overheating on descent. Apply brakes firmly, not continuously.
🧥 Pack Layers!
Temperatures can be cold and change rapidly, even in summer. Snow is possible year-round.
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness as you gain elevation.
🎟️ Book Cog Railway Early
Reservations for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway are recommended, especially for popular times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Smart Downhill
Use 1st gear or 1L to prevent brake overheating on descent. Apply brakes firmly, not continuously.
🧥 Pack Layers!
Temperatures can be cold and change rapidly, even in summer. Snow is possible year-round.
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness as you gain elevation.
🎟️ Book Cog Railway Early
Reservations for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway are recommended, especially for popular times.
🍩 Don't Miss the Donuts!
Try the world-famous donuts at the summit cafe, a unique high-altitude treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking summit views and the unique experience of enjoying world-famous donuts at such a high altitude. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a popular, scenic choice, though driving the highway also offers spectacular vistas. Some travelers note the unpredictable weather and the importance of proper preparation for the altitude and mountain conditions.
"The best donuts with the best view! Donuts on a mountain up in the clouds?! Count us in! We ordered rhe cinnamon sugar donuts but they also had original and "donut of the day". If you get the chance to make it to the top of Pikes Peak, make sure to order the donuts!"
Through Bec Specs Travel Blogger
"We tried driving up March 20th but could not get past the 13th mile due to snow
We took the train on the 21st and it was fine. Great views, a little movie, bathrooms, gift shop and a cafeteria
It was clean, comfortable and spacious with large viewing platforms
Dress warm!"
Barry Lott
"Such a gorgeous and scenic overlook! We loved playing on the rocks and taking pictures. The donuts were a little dry, but it’s cool they can make them at such a high altitude.
The restrooms were very clean. The gift store wasn’t crazy expensive, but it was somewhat picked over (they were completely out of post cards and magnets).
We went on a Wednesday, and the summit was not too busy. Would recommend that you drive up if you’re able; the drive was just as beautiful as being on the summit."
Kari Kirfman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive up the Pikes Peak Highway, take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway from Manitou Springs, or hike. The highway has a toll and requires careful driving, especially on descent.
+1 The cog railway offers a scenic and comfortable ascent.
The Pikes Peak Highway is generally open year-round, weather permitting. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website for current operating times before your visit.
Yes, there is parking available at the Pikes Peak Cog Railway depot in Manitou Springs. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Yes, you can take a shuttle from mile 7 on the highway, which stops at scenic spots including the summit. This offers a convenient way to explore without driving the entire highway.
Popular hiking routes include the Barr Trail, which is a strenuous 13-mile climb. For a quieter experience, consider routes like the one starting from Crags Campground.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Pikes Peak Highway has a toll fee per vehicle. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway has separate ticket prices for adults and children, typically around $35 for adults and $10 for kids.
Reservations are required for the special sunrise dates on Pikes Peak. For the Pikes Peak Highway and Cog Railway, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
While it's possible to buy tickets at the station, it's strongly advised to purchase Pikes Peak Cog Railway tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot, as they often sell out.
The Pikes Peak Highway tollgate is the entry point where you pay the fee to drive up the mountain. Be prepared for potential lines during busy periods.
Various tour operators offer guided trips to Pikes Peak, often combining it with other Colorado Springs attractions. You can also explore options for shuttle services.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, visit the Summit Visitor Center with a restaurant and gift shop, and try the famous high-altitude donuts.
The weather at the summit is unpredictable and can change rapidly. Expect cooler temperatures, strong winds, and the possibility of snow or hail, even in summer.
The drive up the Pikes Peak Highway typically takes about 1-1.5 hours one way. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway journey is about 3 hours round trip, including time at the summit.
Yes, Pikes Peak is generally family-friendly. The cog railway is a comfortable ride, and the summit offers educational opportunities. However, be mindful of altitude sickness with young children.
Many travelers find the front or back cars offer the best unobstructed views. However, the entire journey provides stunning scenery, and the seats are generally comfortable.
🍽️ 🍩 Food & Dining
The Summit Visitor Center at Pikes Peak features a cafe offering food, coffee, and the famous donuts.
Yes, the donuts are a unique experience, being made at the highest altitude donut shop in the world. While some find them a bit dry, most agree they are a must-try.
The Summit Cafe offers a variety of quick-serve counter options, including coffee drinks and their signature donuts. They also have other food items available.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at designated picnic areas along the Pikes Peak Highway. This can be a budget-friendly option.
Tours may include stops at the summit cafe or provide opportunities to purchase food. It's best to check the specific tour itinerary for details on meal inclusions or stops.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views for photography. Along the Pikes Peak Highway, numerous pull-offs provide stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography. Mid-day can be bright, but the expansive views are still impressive. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Absolutely! The Pikes Peak Cog Railway provides continuous scenic views throughout the journey, making it a fantastic opportunity for photography from your seat.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures, and protect your gear from the elements.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding photography in specific areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 At the summit, the Summit Visitor Center provides educational exhibits, and the chance to try the famous high-altitude donuts is a definite hit with kids. Remember to keep everyone hydrated to combat altitude effects, and dress in layers as mountain weather can be unpredictable.💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch and snacks can significantly reduce food costs, as summit dining can be pricey. While the highway has a fee, it allows for more flexibility and stops at your own pace. Hiking up Pikes Peak is free, but requires significant preparation and is best suited for experienced, well-equipped individuals.🚗 Road Trippers
The drive itself is an adventure, but be mindful of the steep grades and potential for brake overheating on the descent.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Pikes Peak Highway
Driving Tips for the Descent are paramount. As highlighted in TikTok videos, using a low gear (1st or 1L) is essential to prevent your brakes from overheating. Continuous braking can lead to brake fade or failure, which is a serious safety concern.
Weather Considerations are also vital. The summit of Pikes Peak experiences unpredictable weather, with snow possible year-round.
The Iconic Pikes Peak Cog Railway
+1 The ride itself is an experience, with comfortable seating and large viewing windows designed to maximize the scenic panorama.Preparing for the Cog Railway Journey involves a few key considerations. Altitude sickness is a real concern, so staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and during the trip is crucial.
Packing layers of clothing is also advised, as temperatures at the summit can be considerably colder than at the base. The railway operates year-round, weather permitting, but booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as they can sell out.Onboard and at the Summit passengers can enjoy the changing scenery. While onboard, announcements may provide interesting facts about the mountain. Upon arrival at the summit, visitors have time to explore the visitor center, grab a bite at the cafe (including the famous donuts!), and take in the expansive views before boarding the train for the descent.
Hiking and Climbing Pikes Peak
Alternative Hiking Routes exist for those seeking a different experience. Some hikers prefer quieter paths, such as the route starting from Crags Campground, which offers a more serene journey through forests and past dramatic rock formations.
Regardless of the chosen trail, hiking at Pikes Peak requires a good level of fitness and a thorough understanding of mountain safety. It's advisable to start early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Colorado mountains.Climbing Pikes Peak is often discussed in terms of preparation and comparison to other 14ers. Experienced hikers training for challenging ascents find Pikes Peak a significant but achievable goal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit