Pikes Peak- America’s Mountain
The snapshot
Nineteen miles of curves deliver you to the top of America's Mountain. Step out into thin air, take in the vista, then grab a fresh donut—hot, famous, unforgettable.
The full experience
The Drive That Changes Everything
Pikes Peak rises to 14,115 feet—one of the most-visited mountains on the planet, and for good reason. This Colorado fourteener welcomes everyone, regardless of age or ability, to experience what it feels like to stand above treeline where the air thins and the world spreads impossibly wide.
Reserve your spot and point your car toward the sky. The Pikes Peak Highway offers 19 miles of paved switchbacks that climb through four distinct life zones, each with its own character. Start in Ponderosa pine forests where the air smells of sun-warmed needles. Wind higher into spruce and fir. Watch trees grow shorter, twisted by altitude and wind. Then break through the treeline entirely into alpine tundra—barren, beautiful, and unlike anything below.
Stop. Look. Breathe.
Pull-offs dot the highway, each one an invitation to step out and really see what you’re driving through. Stretch your legs on the roadside gravel. Frame another photo—though none will quite capture the scale of what’s before you. Watch for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep navigating impossible cliff faces with casual confidence. Listen for the sharp whistle of yellow-bellied marmots warning their neighbors of your presence.
The “Meet the Ranger” program offers deeper context—geology that took millions of years to form, wildlife adapted to extreme conditions, and history written into the rocks. Rangers answer questions you didn’t know you had and point out details you might have missed.
Worth-the-Stop Destinations Along the Way
The North Slope Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts off the main road. Licensed fishermen try their luck for elusive trout in clear mountain streams (May through October—check regulations before you cast). Hikers and bikers disappear onto trails that wind through terrain most visitors never explore.
Further up, Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop offers last-minute snacks and souvenirs. The Historic Glen Cove Inn stands as a reminder of the mountain’s storied past, stone walls and pitched roofs clinging to the mountainside at 11,425 feet. These stops aren’t just conveniences—they’re part of the journey, each adding texture to the climb.
The Summit Rewards You
Crest the final switchback and park at 14,115 feet. Step out. The altitude hits immediately—thin air that makes your lungs work harder, wind that cuts through layers, and views that silence conversation.
The Summit Visitor Center offers warmth and the mountain’s most famous offering: hot, fresh donuts. Made daily at altitude with a recipe adjusted for the thin air, they emerge from the fryer impossibly fluffy. Grab one (or three) while they’re still warm. Pair it with hot coffee that steams in the cold summit air. Browse shelves of fudge in flavors you won’t find elsewhere. Pick through gifts and souvenirs that’ll remind you later that yes, you really stood this high.
Views That Span States
Outside, multiple viewing areas invite you to look in every direction. On clear days—and Colorado delivers plenty—five states spread before you: Colorado beneath your feet, then Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Kansas stretching toward horizons so distant you can see the earth curve away into haze.
Snap photos from every angle. The views change with the light, with the clouds, with where you stand. Some visitors stay ten minutes. Others linger for an hour, reluctant to descend back into thicker air and ordinary elevations.
This is Pikes Peak—accessible, unforgettable, and utterly worth the drive.
Hours & seasons
Average time
- Typical Visit: 2-3 hours
Difficulty/accessibility
The summit of Pikes Peak is completely ADA accessible.
Phone & address
Additional information
The Pikes Peak Highway is always weather-dependent, so be sure to call ahead and check on road conditions at 719-385-7325
What we love (and you will too)
Your Local Guide, Ryan Kost
Local influencer, photographer, videographer and adventurer, Ryan has long been the face in front of Pikes Peak Region Attractions as well as the genius behind the camera.
I cannot get enough of Pikes Peak. As a photographer, I have been on Pikes Peak probably 100 times, and I have never had the same conditions twice. Every time I'm there, I experience something new. As someone who loves to play outside, the possibilities are endless. I've hiked it, I've biked, I've paddle-boarded and kayaked and fished on Pikes Peak. I even road my unicycle down it one time - but that's a story for another time. . . Plus, I can go up the mountain with my three-year-old nephew and my 75 year old grandparents in an afternoon and everyone has an awesome time.
Plan your adventure
- What to bring
- How to prepare
- The Seasons
- Good to know
- Bring a jacket – the top of Pikes Peak is always 30º colder than it is in town.
- Bring at least half a tank of fuel. There are no gas stations on the Pikes Peak Highway.
- Make sure your camera has plenty of memory available!
- Bring your reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is key, and no plastic water bottles are sold on Pikes Peak.
- Call ahead for road conditions at 719-385-7325
- Get a timed entry permit if traveling between May and September at DrivePikesPeak.com
- Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate to the elevation of Colorado Springs before heading up to 14,115 feet
- Pikes Peak is open year-round, but it is always weather-dependent. Icy roads, high winds, and lightning can temporarily close parts of the highway, so call ahead to be prepared.
- Fishing is available on Pikes Peak from May 1 through September
- Pikes Peak is home to a lot of wildlife, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled as you ascend.
- Use low gears to slow your vehicle down on the way down the mountain so you don’t overheat your brakes.
- The drive is not recommended for infants under 6 months old or for anyone with a history of cardiac or respiratory problems. Consult your physician before your visit if you have any concerns.
Getting here
- The front gate to the Pikes Peak Highway is 30 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs.
- You must drive your own vehicle (or rental car)
FAQs about Pikes Peak- America’s Mountain
How do I get to the Gateway entrance?
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain and the entrance to the Pikes Peak Highway are located west of Colorado Springs in Cascade. Follow the directions below, or enter 5089 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, CO 80809 into your GPS or phone.
Off Highway 24: – Head west past Manitou Springs. Turn left at the first light (Fountain Ave.) into the town of Cascade. Follow signs for the highway and for Santa’s Workshop. You will soon reach the Pikes Peak Gateway.
How much gas do I need?
Have a minimum of a ½ tank of fuel.
What do I do if I start to feel dizzy or lightheaded?
Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, poor appetite, nausea and impaired judgement. The best treatment is to retreat to lower altitude. Drinking plenty of fluids and acclimating to the area prior to visiting can help with symptoms.
Can we use our National Park pass?
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is not a national park so a national park pass cannot be used.
Are there vehicle restrictions?
The purpose of this policy is to define the minimum vehicle and bus requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety of visitors and staff on the Pikes Peak Highway.
Cars and Non-Commercial Truck Restrictions
Automatic Transmissions: Must have a “1” or “L” on the shifter to be allowed on the highway. Hybrid Transmissions may have a “B” which is also acceptable. Transmissions showing an “S” or “M” must demonstrate that this shifter will allow the transmission to be locked into 1st gear.
Bus and RV Requirements and Restrictions
Wheelbase: Bus or RV wheelbase cannot exceed 19 ft or 228 inches and can not exceed 24′ in overall length for any bus or RV operating on the Pikes Peak Highway.
Brakes: Buses operating with less than a 21-passenger capacity may operate with standard hydraulic brake systems. Examples: Gray line or People Movers
Buses operating over 21 passengers must have air brakes with a sufficient retarder system or engine brake. Examples: Durham, school activity buses or church buses
Operators
All bus operators must have the required C.D.L. permit for the size bus and load they are carrying.
Out of state bus operators and vehicles must be pre-approved by the Pikes Peak Manager and must meet the above requirements. Approval must be requested, in writing, a minimum of 14-days prior to the planned visit.
All operators are encouraged to have experience driving high-altitude mountain highways.
Commercial Coaches or Charters: Most vehicles will not meet the above requirements and are discouraged
4. Scooters
Any scooter that meets the motorcycle motor vehicle regulations according to the Colorado State Statute are allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway.
More than 50cc or 4476 watts
Certificate of title and vehicle registration (license plate and title)
Proof of valid insurance
Prohibited Vehicles
No Pull-Behind Trailers or Campers regardless of size. This includes bicycle and motorcycle trailers.
No ATV or OHV’s allowed
No Mopeds or Scooters that do not meet the requirements above.
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain staff reserves the right to refuse any vehicle access to the Pikes Peak Highway if they do not meet these requirements.
Is Pikes Peak closed during PPIHC race week?
Pikes Peak Highway is closed to visitors on race day. Check out https://ppihc.org/ for the most current race information.
Where can I check road conditions?
Call 719-385-7325 and press 1 twice, they will tell you the weather/ road conditions!
Why do I need to stop at the Brake Check Station?
Hot brakes can fail. Drive down the mountain in low gear or low range. Let your transmission do the work. Save your brakes. If you are unsure how to use your low gears, ask a Ranger for help.
If you have to pull off and cool down once you finish your descent, it’s okay! Take a stroll while they cool and have the peace of mind that you’ll be able to head to your next adventure safely.
What are their hours?
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is open year-round – weather permitting. Conditions change frequently. It is recommended to call the pre-recorded information line to get the most accurate information.
The staff updates the info approximately 30 minutes prior to opening and as conditions change throughout the day. Call 719-385-7325 and select option 1 for current road conditions. Hours and rates change seasonally.
Are there any age or health restrictions?
The drive is not recommended for infants under the age of six months or anyone with a history of cardiac or respiratory problems. Consult your physician prior to your visit if you have concerns.
Call Pikes Peak Region Attractions and talk to a local: 1-800-525-2250
Keep Exploring
- Articles
6 High-Altitude Tips for a Great Colorado Springs Vacation
Local tips to avoid altitude sickness and help you have an awesome healthy time! Drink water, wear sunscreen, and start slow!
5 Ways to Reach the Summit of Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak—America’s Mountain is unique in that it is a mountain that is surmountable by people of many different ages and abilities.
Elevation of Pikes Peak
For more than 150 years, a spirited discussion has reigned about Pikes Peak and the official elevation, 14,115ft.
Price List
Drive to the Summit:
Timed Entry Permit (required to drive past mile 7): $2 / vehicle
Adult: $18
Child (6-15): $8
Military (with ID): $16
Carload (up to 5 people): $65
Shuttle to the Summit:
Adult: $35
Child (6-15): $10
