Climb Pikes Peak in a private Land Cruiser and reach 14,115 feet without the rush of a group bus. This three- to four-hour guided drive blends scenic overlooks, historic stops like Glen Cove Lodge, and a summit visit—timed-entry fees included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The light green Land Cruiser waits where the parking lot meets the highway, engine idling like a calm animal ready to pull you up into the thin air. As you climb, the world reshapes: scrub pines flatten into krummholz, and the road curves past reservoirs that flash cold blue in the sun. Wind tugs at the windows; the mountain seems to measure your breath.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required for the drive; be able to walk short paved and rocky sections at high elevation.
Wildlife
History
Pikes Peak’s name honors explorer Zebulon Pike; the mountain and surrounding routes played a central role in early Colorado tourism and inspired the poem that became “America the Beautiful.”
Conservation
The Pikes Peak Highway operates under strict permit controls and timed entries to limit traffic and erosion; visitors are asked to stay on roads and designated overlooks to protect fragile alpine soils.
Reserve your spot on the Private Pikes Peak Highway and Summit Adventure Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimate and hydrate
Drink water before your tour and sip during the drive—altitude can hit hard above 8,000 feet, so pace yourself at the summit.
Layer for summit conditions
Bring a windproof layer and hat; temperatures and wind at 14,115 ft change rapidly even on sunny days.
Time your visit
Book early morning slots to avoid summer afternoon thunderstorms and larger crowds at the Summit House.
Short walks require sturdy shoes
Wear closed-toe, supportive shoes for short summit trails and uneven overlooks around Glen Cove.
Windproof insulated jacket
Protects against cold, gusts, and rapid temperature changes at the summit.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
High-altitude UV is intense—protect skin and eyes even on cloudy days.
summer
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Needed for brief summit walks, boardwalks, and uneven overlook terrain.
Camera or binoculars
Capture the sweeping vistas and distant peaks; binoculars help spot marmots or mountain goats.