Private Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Manitou Springs & Garden of the Gods Day Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness for short walks and moderate mobility; expect brief uphill walking and standing at high altitude.
Overview
Ride the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway to 14,115 feet, wander Manitou Springs’ mineral springs and galleries, and walk among the red-rock spires of Garden of the Gods—all in a private, full-day tour with luxury transport. Expect sweeping views, high-elevation weather, and practical guidance for photographing and acclimatizing.
Private Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Manitou Springs & Garden of the Gods Day Tour
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A wind lifts off the high prairie and pushes cool air across the train windows as the cog railway hums uphill, gears clicking like a steady heartbeat. From the carriage you watch the city shrink, then the foothills open into alpine tundra—Pikes Peak’s granite shoulders growing larger, crowned with snow even in summer. On this private day tour, the landscape alternates between big, raw mountain and the sculpted red spires of Garden of the Gods, with a stop to breathe in the mineral-streaked eccentricity of Manitou Springs.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pace yourself at altitude
The summit hits 14,115 ft—move slowly, hydrate, and avoid heavy exertion right after arrival to reduce altitude effects.
Layer for sudden temperature change
Temperatures can drop quickly on the summit; bring a windproof layer and a warm mid-layer even in summer.
Protect against sun exposure
High elevation intensifies UV—sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat are important for the train ride and summit time.
Stick to marked trails
Garden of the Gods and summit tundra are ecologically sensitive—stay on paths to prevent erosion and protect native plants.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Yellow-bellied marmot (summer)
History
Pikes Peak’s Cog Railway began service in 1891; Manitou Springs grew as a Victorian-era resort around natural mineral springs long revered by Indigenous peoples.
Conservation
The area is ecologically sensitive—especially alpine tundra and desert soils—so visitors are asked to stay on trails, pack out trash, and limit off-trail impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Colorado Springs
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered jacket (windproof)
Blocks wind at high elevation and provides warmth when temperatures drop on the summit.
Hydration bottle (1–2L)
Staying hydrated helps mitigate altitude sickness during the full-day tour.
summer specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Supportive shoes are useful for short walks among uneven rock in Garden of the Gods and at summit viewpoints.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
High-altitude sun exposure is intense; UV protection is essential year-round.
summer specific