Follow a self-guided audio route up Pikes Peak Highway and learn the mountain’s history, geology, and human stories as you drive. Download the tour ahead, buy one per car, and expect a 1–2 hour roundtrip with dramatic elevation gain and multiple photo-ready pullouts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You turn onto Pikes Peak Highway and the valley exhales behind you: pavement narrows, pines compress, and the road begins its climb into thinner air. Windows down or stereo on, the mountain arrives in chapters—lower montane forests, scrubby subalpine, then the stark, wind-sculpted alpine near the top.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Requires minimal physical effort for driving, but travelers should be prepared for short walks at altitude and basic mobility to exit the vehicle.
Wildlife
History
Pikes Peak drew thousands during the 1859 gold rush and later hosted the famous Pikes Peak Cog Railway; the highway itself opened in early 20th century and changed access to the summit.
Conservation
The alpine environment is fragile—stay on designated roads and trails, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing high‑elevation vegetation that recovers slowly.
Reserve your spot on the Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download before you go
Download the Action Tour Guide app and this tour over Wi‑Fi—once offline the audio will still work where cell signal is weak.
One tour per car
Purchase a single audio tour per vehicle and connect your phone to the car stereo for a shared listening experience.
Acclimate and hydrate
Start low for a bit in Colorado Springs if you’re coming from sea level; bring water and avoid strenuous activity immediately after arrival.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can drop dramatically near the summit—windproof layers and a warm hat can turn an uncomfortable stop into a pleasant one.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated helps with altitude adjustment and keeps you comfortable during stops.
Layered jacket and wind shell
Summit winds and sudden storms make warm, windproof layers essential year-round.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
High-elevation UV is stronger—protect skin and eyes while you take photos at pullouts.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Useful for spotting wildlife, distant towns, and geological features from overlooks.