national historic sites and landmarks national historic sites and landmarks

Pikes Peak

 

Though not the highest peak in the state, Pikes Peak is the most traveled to mountain in North America and second in the world only to Mt Fuji in Japan. Zebulon Pike was the first white man to see the peak in 1806. Unfortunately, the man whose name is tied to the peak, was never able to reach the summit. He even predicted that no one would ever be able to scale this mountain. But in 1820, Stephen Long and 3 others climbed the mountain and reached the summit. Today, over 6 million people reach the summit each year, either by foot, automobile, or railroad. Those who have reached the summit understand what Kathy Lee Bates felt when she reached the summit, and was inspired to write the poem "America the Beautiful."

pikes peak, Colorado, The CVD

There are a few ways to reach the summit. For those who wish to hike it, Barr Trail leads up the mountain to the summit. The trail starts in Manitou Springs and winds 13 miles to the top. The hike is very strenuous, as it has a 7,400' gain from the bottom. The average slope is about 11%. For those not in the physical condition to hike up, the Pikes Peak Highway also leads to the summit. The highway was built in 1915, at a cost of $350,000 at the time. For a travel back in time, you can take the Pikes Peak Cog Railroad to the summit. The Cog Railroad was opened on June 30, 1891, carrying a church choir to the summit as its first passengers. Though the track is only 8.9 miles long, it takes over 3 hours to travel round trip on the train.

Pikes Peak hosts three major events every year. The Pikes Peak Marathon is held in August. Thousands of runners come to this event, racing on Barr Trail round trip. The fastest time is 3 hours 16 minutes. The Pikes Peak auto climb takes place on the last Saturday of June. Car racers travel 12.42 miles around 156 turns for a 5,000' elevation change on a gravel road to the summit. The fastest time is 10 minutes 4.6 seconds. The third annual event is the New Years Eve fireworks. A local climbing group hikes the mountain, and then sets off fireworks that can be seen as far away as Denver.

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Places to Stay & Fun things to Do

3B Historic Cabins & Ranch email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page location map sub-page available on business page
Families have come to 3B for over 60 years. Year 'round "There's something for everyone!" Cabins, suites, lodge rooms & tent village. Horseback riding & wrangler meals in the Pikes Peak Region.
Aspen Grove Chalet email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page
An affordable mountain getaway with an outdoor hot tub. This cozy chalet backs to Pike National Forest. Near Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs, US Air Force Academy and Garden of the Gods. Amazing Fishing!
El Colorado Lodge email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
AAA Approved. Historic modernized adobe cabins in Manitou Springs near Colorado Springs. Large heated pool. Majestic Pikes Peak overlooks our 4 acres with giant Blue Spruce trees! LOVE GROUPS!
Fountain Creek RV Park & Camper Cabins - Open All Year email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Camp under Big shade trees and by a bubbling creek. All new full hookups in Colorado Springs. WI-FI. Walk to restaurants & shopping, EASY access to ALL attractions, Pikes Peak and US Air Force Academy.
Mountain Bike Pike's Peak & Rockhound ATV Rentals & Sales email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
See The Pikes Peak Area's on a comfortable four-wheel ATV? Ride in Pike National Forest, 20 minutes away. Choose a Yamaha 1-seater or 2-seater Bombardier. Ask About our NEW Pikes Peak Bike Tours.
Old Town Guesthouse B&B mutual link button on advertiser page
Voted "Best B&B" in Colorado Springs for 2007. AAA 4 Diamond. Upscale amenities. Private hot tubs, WI-FI, and elevator. Tucked in among quaint boutiques, galleries, antique shops and restaurants.
Pikes Peak Mountain Bike Tours photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Enjoy breathtaking views of Pikes Peak by mountain bike! A fun and safe opportunities for all who LOVE the great outdoors. We cater to all skill levels. All necessary equipment and transportation are provided.
Rocky Top Motel, RV Park & Campground email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Great views! Motel, RV Sites and Tent Sites. Free WI-FI. Playground. Near Garden of the Gods, Cripple Creek casinos, Royal Gorge, Air Force Academy, cliff dwellings, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & Pikes Peak.

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More Activities & Information

Pikes Peak Area - includes Chipita Park, Cascade, Deckers, Green Mountain Falls, Manitou Springs & Woodland Park

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