Pikes Peak Highway

The Basics

The paved 19-mile (30.5-kilometer) road was built in 1915 and makes Pikes Peak accessible to those who would not normally be able to reach a high-altitude summit. The road also provides access to numerous recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, and boating.xa0 You can visit the peak on a small group tour that departs from Denver and also includes stops to explore the Garden of the Gods and other nearby attractions.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The drive is ideal for outdoor adventure lovers and people who want the summit experience without the mountain climbing.
• Some visitors may suffer from altitude sickness at the summit or along the way.
• There are no gas stations along the highway so fuel up in Colorado Springs.
• Driving the Pikes Peak Highway takes around 2 to 3 hours round trip.
• Bring a jacket for the cold temperatures at the summit.

How to Get There

The entrance to the Pikes Peak Highway is west of Colorado Springs and a half-hour south of Denver. It takes about an hour to drive to the start of the highway from the Denver International Airport. If you want to focus on the scenery rather than the road, join a tour that does the driving for you.

When to Get There

The Pikes Peak Highway is open year-round, snow conditions permitting. The road is gated and the hours when it is open vary based on the season so call ahead to check the current hours and road conditions. Weather on the mountain is erratic and can be different at the base than at the summit. Ranger-led interpretive discussions are offered in the summer.

Activities along Pikes Peak Highway

Visiting Pikes Peak is about much more than just the drive. You can stop to fish at one of the three reservoirs on the mountain (boat rentals are available) or explore the mountain’s many trails. If you are feeling ambitious, hike or cycle to the summit and reward yourself with high-altitude doughnuts at the Summit House.

Ways to explore

When Pikes Peak Highway, a paved 19-mile (30.5-kilometer) road, was built in 1915, the high-altitude summit of Pikes Peak was finally accessible to those who wouldn’t normally be able to reach the top. Today, the scenic drive also provides access to numerous recreational activities along the way, such as fishing, hiking, biking, and boating.

If you don’t want to drive on your own, visit the peak on a small-group tour that departs from Denver—many include stops to explore the Garden of the Gods and other nearby attractions.

Accessibility

The road is paved, and the summit has paved walkways and an accessible visitor center. However, altitude can affect those with respiratory or heart conditions.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunglasses/hat, water, snacks, camera, wallet, sunscreen, altitude medication (if needed)

What to wear

Layers, layers, layers—temperatures can be significantly cooler at the summit. Bring a jacket even in the summer!

Not allowed

Off-road driving, littering, pull-behind trailers or campers, all-terrain vehicles/off-highway vehicles, most mopeds/scooters, skateboards/longboards

Amenities

Visitor center, gift shop, restaurant, lodging, trails, benches, picnic areas, overlooks, restrooms

Address 

Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile (30.5-kilometer) toll road ascending to the summit of Pikes Peak, beginning west of Colorado Springs near Cascade. It’s easy to get there via car, train, or guided tour.

Driving

Take US Route 24 west from Colorado Springs. The gate is at Mile 7; you’ll need to pay the toll to go any farther. From May 23 to September 30, you’ll also need a timed-entry permit. Permits can be purchased online.

Public transportation

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a good alternative to driving; it departs from Manitou Springs and reaches the summit in about one hour and 30 minutes. You could also take a guided tour to avoid the driving and permit hassles.

Best times to visit

Early morning typically offers the clearest views—afternoon storms and clouds are common. Expect to spend 3–4 hours total for the round trip, allowing time at the summit.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to have fewer visitors than weekends, but if you’re traveling in the summer, you’ll need to arrive whenever your timed-entry permit allows.

Best months to visit

From late May to September, the highway is typically fully open—it often snows outside that window. September can be nice for still-open facilities but smaller crowds.

Special events

Events tend to focus on sports and activities, such as the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in June.