A Travel Guide to Colorado Springs Attractions that Charge Admission Page 1

Pikes Peak Highway

The west side of Pikes Peak with the highway looking like a sideways V through the snow

     The focal point of Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. The incredible views at the top of the mountain inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write the words to "America the Beautiful." This 14,110 foot mountain is west of Colorado Springs. The Pikes Peak highway is about 20 miles long, but plan for it to take at least two and a half to three hours for the round trip. The road winds it way up the mountain. It is now paved all the way to the top of the mountain and the road does get above timberline. At the top you will have a 360º view. Remember the weather at the top of the mountain can change quickly and it can snow there in the summer, so dress suitably. When you get out to view the scenery, make sure you watch your kids as there are some steep dropoffs on the mountain. The highway up Pikes Peak is open year round, weather permitting. Also, remember to gas up the car as there are no gas stations after you leave the town of Cascade at the base of the mountain. The Summit House is a visitor center at the top of Pikes Peak with a gift store, food, and restrooms. There is also a cafe at Glen Cove, about halfway up the mountain and a snack bar at Crystal Reservoir. Click here for a coupon for a free donut at the Summit House or $1.00 off a mug filled with a beverage plus two donuts. In the summer the cost to drive up Pikes Peak is $12.00 per adult and $5.00 per child ages 6 - 15 or $40.00 per car up to 5 people (each additional person is $7.00 per adult and $2.00 per child). Click here then click the coupon button in the information box for a coupon to get $2.00 off the full price entrance fee on the highway, or click Plus Pass tickets to purchases passes to help you save money on your visit to Pike Peak and other Colorado Springs attractions. Click Pikes Peak hours and pricing  for the hours and more information about the trip up the mountain.

     

Pikes Peak Cog Railway

     The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a great way to go up Pikes Peak without having to drive. The round trip last a little over 3 hours. The train runs daily, weather permitting. You get to stay at the top of the mountain for about 30 minutes. You have to go down on the same train that brought you up the mountain. Food, souvenirs, and restrooms are available at the Summit House at the top of the mountain. Make sure and watch your kids as there are some steep dropoffs at the top of the mountain. Dress appropriately as the weather can change quickly even in the summer months. It can be beautiful in Colorado Springs and snowing at the top of the mountain. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a very popular and reservations are required. The cost is $35.00 per adult and $19.00 per child ages 3-12 (children under 2 are free if they are held on your lap the entire trip). Click http://www.cograilway.com/cog_railway_coupon.htm to see if a coupon is available for the trip you want to make, and http://www.cograilway.com/ratestimes.htm for more information on times and departure.

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