Up America’s Mountain: Driving, Biking and Riding the Pikes Peak Highway
Drive, bike, or ride the paved ribbon to 14,115 feet — and do it smart
The highway unfurls like a ribbon of light against the pinyon and granite — switchback after switchback climbing into thinner air. At 8,000 feet the pines still tidy themselves along the guardrail; by 12,000 feet the trees have bowed into krummholz and the scrub hushes to a whisper. You feel the mountain before you see it: the engine’s note shifting with each hairpin, the world dropping away behind you. Pikes Peak doesn’t wait for anyone. It dares you forward.
Trail Wisdom
Acclimatize before pushing the summit
Spend an hour in Manitou Springs or the Garden of the Gods to start hydrating and avoid immediate summit exertion; altitude affects people differently.
Drive the switchbacks slowly
The highway is paved but narrow in places — keep speed down, yield at pullouts, and take extra care in high winds.
Reserve active tours in advance
Bike descents, Jeep tours, and Cog Railway seats can sell out in summer; book ahead for the times you want.
Pack sun protection and warm layers
UV exposure increases with elevation and temperatures can drop quickly near the summit; bring sunscreen and a wind shell.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hike short sections of Barr Trail for quieter mountain views
- •Sample the mineral springs and penny arcade in Manitou Springs
Wildlife
elk, mule deer
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated roads and trails to protect fragile alpine tundra; the Pikes Peak Highway collects fees that support maintenance and habitat stewardship.
Pikes Peak inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write the first lines of 'America the Beautiful' after a visit to the summit in 1893.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wildflower patches at lower elevations
Challenges: snow at higher elevations, variable road conditions
Late spring can be a patchwork of conditions — expect lingering snow near the summit and clear roads lower down; check highway status before you go.
summer
Best for: full road access, long daylight hours, guided tours and bike descents
Challenges: crowds on weekends, afternoon thunderstorms
Summer is the most reliable season for summit access and guided experiences but start early to avoid storms and heavy traffic.
fall
Best for: crisp skies, fall color, photography
Challenges: rapid temperature swings, shorter days
Autumn offers clear vistas and cooler temps; be ready for cold mornings and earlier sunsets at altitude.
winter
Best for: snowscapes, quieter road sections when open
Challenges: summit closures, icy conditions and limited services
Winter can close the highway to the summit — portions remain scenic but expect limited facilities and variable access.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Layered jacket (windproof)Essential
Protects against sudden summit winds and fast temperature drops.
High-SPF sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
UV is more intense at elevation; protect skin and eyes even on cool or cloudy days.
Hydration system (1–2 liters)Essential
Start hydrated and sip frequently to reduce altitude effects.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Useful for short summit walks and rocky pullouts where pavement ends.
Common Questions
How long is the Pikes Peak Highway and how much elevation do you gain?
The paved road covers roughly 19 miles from the eastern approach and climbs about 7,400–7,600 feet to the 14,115-foot summit.
Can I drive to the summit in any vehicle?
Most passenger vehicles can make the drive when conditions are good, but always check highway status, observe posted restrictions, and drive cautiously on high-elevation switchbacks.
What’s the best way to avoid altitude sickness?
Hydrate the day before, ascend gradually, limit strenuous activity upon arrival, and listen to your body; descend if you feel severe symptoms.
Are there guided options that include Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs?
Yes — many full-day and half-day tours combine Pikes Peak with stops at Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs for a single-day itinerary.
Is biking down from the summit safe for beginners?
Downhill bike tours are designed for a range of abilities but require some prior riding experience; operators list weight limits and skill recommendations, so check before booking.
When is the Cog Railway running?
The Cog Railway operates seasonally and on scheduled dates — book early and confirm service windows, especially shoulder seasons when snow can affect runs.
What to Pack
water reservoir or bottles (altitude hydration), layered windproof jacket (summit chill), sunscreen and sunglasses (strong UV), sturdy shoes (rocky pullouts and short hikes)
Did You Know
Katherine Lee Bates wrote the poem that became 'America the Beautiful' after viewing the landscape from Pikes Peak’s summit in 1893.
Quick Travel Tips
start early to avoid afternoon storms; check highway and railway status; hydrate and eat before ascent; book guided tours and bike descents in advance
Local Flavor
Grab a bite in Manitou Springs — try the local craft beers and sample mineral spring water at public fountains; combine the mountain experience with a stroll through Garden of the Gods for classic Colorado geology and community storytelling.
Logistics Snapshot
Know-before-you-go: 19 miles, 14,115 ft summit; fees apply; reserve tours in summer; pack layers; expect rapid weather shifts.
Sustainability Note
Stay on paved roads and marked trails to protect fragile alpine vegetation, pack out trash, and support local operators who contribute to trail maintenance and conservation fees.