Spotlight: Colorado Springs - Pikes Peak

Spotlight: At 14,115 feet, Pikes Peaks isn't the tallest mountain in the country - or even in the state of Colorado. It is, however, one of the most famous mountains in the country, as advertised in its nickname - America's Mountain. Why is it so famous? Probably because it is the highest peak of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, which means it was the first truly majestic mountain explorers encountered after crossing the Great Plains. After thousands of miles of flat prairie, the sight of Pikes Peak was truly amazing. Also, when gold was discovered in the area, prospectors set out for the area bearing signs declaring "Pike's Peak or Bust." The mountain was named after explorer Zebulon Pike, who unsuccessfully tried to climb to the summit.

     In the summer of 1893, Katharine Lee Bates, and English professor at Wellesley College was in Colorado Springs to teach a summer session at Colorado College. While there, she and a group of professors took a carriage ride to the top of Pikes Peak. The view from the top was so awe-inspiring that Bates penned the words to the song "America the Beautiful" that very night.

Location: Pikes Peak is just west of Colorado Springs and can be accessed from Pikes Peak Highway. The Gateway entrance is at 5089 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade, CO.

Cost: Pikes Peak Highway is a toll road: $15/adult (May-November), $10/adult (December-April); $5/child (ages 6-15); $50/carload (up to 5) from May-November or $35/carload from December-April

Time: Pikes Peak is open year round - weather permitting. It is closed for Race Day in June. Hours: 9am-5pm (October-May), 7:30 am - 8 pm (June - Aug), 7:30-7 (September). Hours may change due to weather or events. Plan on spending from 3-6 hours depending on your activities.

Description: When we went to Pikes Peak, we reached the top via the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway - the world's highest cog railroad. Although my oldest daughter and I have hiked to mountain peaks before, this was the perfect way for my wife and youngest daughter to experience the joy of a mountain peak for themselves. We sat comfortably and watched the alpine scenery pass while our guide told us about the highlights along the way. Unfortunately, after 125 years of service, the railway will be closed for the 2018 season as the company assesses how to update their equipment. It may or may not open again in 2019.

Colorado "gravel"

     Of course there are other alternatives for reaching the top. The most common is to drive the 19-mile highway at your own leisure. Of course there are people who prefer to hike or bike the mountain (either one way or both) as well as some certifiably crazy individuals who run to the top and back. The most popular hiking trail is the 13-mile Barr Trail, which starts in Manitou Springs and approaches the summit from the east. The trail is also the site of the annual Pikes Peak Marathon. There are also a number of tour groups who organize excursions up the mountain.
     At the top, the Summit House sells hot beverages and donuts as well as any number of souvenirs. It also provides some shelter from the wind and cold. Keep your eye out for yellow-bellied marmots and other wildlife which populate the area.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - If you are not used to high altitudes, take it slow and drink plenty of fluids. If you start to feel headaches, dizziness or nausea, you are probably suffering from altitude sickness. The best cure is to start heading down the mountain.
- Every year, Pikes Peak Highway hosts the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (a motor race) as well as a couple of bike races. The highway is closed to other traffic on race days.
- If you drive to the top of Pikes Peak, make sure you have at least 1/2 tank of gas. Check your brakes before you go. Also, use low gears so that you don't wear out your brakes.
- The peak is about 30 degrees colder than it is at the base of the mountain any given day.

- For up-to-date weather and road conditions, call 719-385-7325, then press "1" twice.

Nearby: Manitou Incline, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, Broadmoor Seven Falls, Garden of the Gods, and more