Drive to the Clouds: Private Pikes Peak Country & Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver

Colorado Springs•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels but requires the ability to walk short distances on uneven ground and tolerate high altitude.

Overview

A private day trip that pairs the shock-red formations of Garden of the Gods with a vehicle ascent to Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot summit. Expect short walks, mountain air that demands layers, and a curated route through Manitou Springs.

Drive to the Clouds: Private Pikes Peak Country & Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver

Other

Bus Tour

Wildlife

Sightseeing Tour

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You step into a luxury vehicle in downtown Denver and the city grid melts behind you as the Front Range rises like a slow-moving wall.

Adventure Photos

Drive to the Clouds: Private Pikes Peak Country & Garden of the Gods Tour from Denver photo 1

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers

Temperatures drop quickly above 10,000 feet—bring a warm jacket and packable layers even on sunny days.

Hydrate early and often

Start hydrating the day before and carry extra water; altitude increases dehydration and headaches.

Protect against sun and wind

High-elevation sun is stronger; use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windproof outer layer.

Watch your step at viewpoints

Summit overlooks and Garden of the Gods trails have uneven rock and loose gravel—sturdy shoes reduce the risk of slips.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Mule deer commonly graze near the park edges
Golden eagles and other raptors patrol the thermals around the peaks

History

Pikes Peak was named for explorer Zebulon Pike, who never reached the summit; later, the mountain inspired Katherine Lee Bates’ poem that became America the Beautiful.

Conservation

High visitation stresses fragile soils and native plants—stay on roads and marked trails, pack out trash, and support park fees that fund maintenance and restoration.