Colorado Adventure

Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Colorado Springs, Colorado

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by Michele Kadison

Hop aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway from Manitou Springs to see why Katherine Lee Bates wrote her famous “America the Beautiful” in 1893. Even though she took a mule-drawn wagon to see the view from the top of Pikes Peak, you can experience the same thrill she felt by ascending on the highest cog railway in the world and the highest railway of any type in the United States. Reaching 7,539 vertical feet in just nine miles, you will experience some of the most exhilarating views imaginable, including the Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, and the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

As you reach your destination you will climb through a variety of ecological zones, including semi-arid pine forests, high-altitude Aspen groves, wide tundra that expands above the tree line, and then fields of granite that lie near the summit. The vertical climb is accomplished through the cog railway’s toothy gears that configure with the track. Make sure you stay alert to all the wildlife along the way such as hawks, mountain goats, marmots, and bighorn sheep.

Driving on Pikes Peak Highway or hiking or biking to the summit is another way to enjoy the thrill of the mountain. But taking the railway provides an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Plan on three hours and ten minutes to go round trip, with a half hour or so to enjoy the Summit House and Gift Shop before turning around.

Make sure you bring a jacket or sweater as the climate changes with the high altitude. Though it may be warm down below, you may find it quite chilly as you ascend.

Season: Year round
Information and reservations: 719-685-5401
Prices (round trip): Adults, $30.50; Children, $17.00 and $18.00 high season (July 1 – Aug 18); under 2 years old, free.
Directions: From I-25 in Colorado Springs, take US-24 (exit 141) west 4 miles to the Manitou Ave (Manitou Springs) exit. Go west on Manitou Ave 1-1/2 miles to Ruxton Ave, turn left, go 3/4 mile to the top of Ruxton (515 Ruxton Ave).

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