Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Garden of the Gods: One-Day Summit & Red Rock Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but expect effects from rapid altitude gain; basic mobility required for short walks and boarding the train.
Overview
From Denver to 14,115 feet: this full-day tour pairs a picnic among Garden of the Gods’ red fins with a journey on the historic cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak. Expect big geology, brisk summit air, and a manageable day trip into Colorado’s high country.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Garden of the Gods: One-Day Summit & Red Rock Tour
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Morning light catches the red fins of Garden of the Gods long before the train has left the platform. On this one-day loop—from Denver’s Union Station to the high, cold crown of Pikes Peak—the landscape stages a quick-change: urban grit gives way to sun-baked sandstone, then to wind-scoured alpine tundra. Travelers step off a shuttle into the wide, carved corridors of Garden of the Gods for a picnic among towering spires, and later climb aboard the cog railway, a slow, mechanical ascent that lets the mountain do the storytelling.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Summit temperatures are dramatically cooler than the garden below—bring a warm jacket and windproof outer layer.
Hydrate for altitude
Drink water before you board and carry a refillable bottle—altitude can dehydrate you quickly.
Sun protection
UV intensifies with elevation; use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat even on cool days.
Plan for communal seating
Train cars have facing benches; if you need more legroom, request a strategic seat when boarding.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel
History
Manitou Springs rose as a late-19th-century resort town built around mineral springs; the cog railway opened in 1891 to ferry tourists to the summit.
Conservation
Garden of the Gods is a designated National Natural Landmark with managed trails to protect fragile sandstone; visitors are asked to stay on paths and pack out trash.
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Adventure Hotspots in Colorado Springs
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated jacket
Keeps you warm on the summit where wind and cold can arrive quickly.
Reusable water bottle
Refill stations are available—bring your own to stay hydrated and reduce waste.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good grip helps on uneven paths through Garden of the Gods and around view points.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
High-elevation sun is stronger; protect skin and eyes during outdoor stops.
summer specific