Built in 1915, this winding road is the perfect scenic drive, offering views of lakes, mountains, wildlife and the surrounding area.
Quick Facts About Pikes Peak Highway
- Location: The Pikes Peak Highway Gateway is in Cascade, Colorado, just west of Colorado Springs. To get there from Colorado Springs, go west on Highway US-24 and turn left onto Fountain Ave. You will see signs for the Pikes Peak Highway.
- Reservation: Reservations are not required from October 2022 to May 2023. For more details, visit www.drivepikespeak.com.
- Time: The round-trip journey takes about 2-3 hours, not including stops for photos, time spent at the summit and other activities. 3-4 hours is recommended.
- Fuel: There are no gas stations along the highway. Be sure that you have at least 1/2 tank of gas before you start your scenic drive.
- Elevation gain: The highway's entrance begins at 7,400 feet and climbs all the way up to 14,115 feet to the summit of the mountain.
- Health: It is recommended if you have heart or respiratory issues to consult with your physician before visiting.
- Infants: Please no infants under 6 months old.
Activities & Recreation Near Pikes Peak Highway
- Fishing - there are three lakes available for fishing. Crystal Reservoir and North and South Catamount Reservoirs, all located in what is called the North Slope Recreation Area. For more information about fishing, go here: ColoradoSprings.gov
- Hiking - trails can be found off the highway or you can choose to hike up Pikes Peak via Barr Trail or the Crags/Devils Playground rather than drive. Hiking on the highway is not permitted.
- Biking - you can bike both up and down Pikes Peak Highway. Learn more.
- Visit our main guide page for more things to do near Pikes Peak.
Food & Gift Shops
Food can be purchased at the Crystal Reservoir Visitor Center, Glen Cove Inn and the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center. Each of these locations also include Gift shops.
- The Crystal Reservoir Visitor Center is found just after mile marker 6. It's a good place to stop and grab a snack or purchase bait to go fishing. Ranger-led classes and paddle boat rentals are available in the summer months.
- Glen Cove Inn is found at mile marker 13, about half way up the mountain. Here you can find restrooms and a nice sit down area with food for purchase.
- The Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center sits at the top of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet above sea level. Immerse yourself in the new interpretive experience or browse the extensive gift shop, use the restroom and grab some food. Options include salads, sandwiches and sides. Be sure to try the world-famous donuts, the only donuts made at an altitude over 14,000 feet. These donuts have special, high-altitude ingredients. So, make sure to eat these at the top of the mountain, as the change in altitude will change the texture of the donut.
Pikes Peak Photo Opportunities & Scenic Stops
- Definitely stop at Crystal Reservoir on your scenic drive up or down the Pikes Peak Highway. The water and peak create a perfect picturesque moment.
- Devils Playground also makes for a great stop to get out, walk around and take some beautiful photos.
- At the Summit Visitor Center, you'll want to take photos at the Summit Market or the dramatic north overlook near the edge where you can see for miles upon miles.
- Payment: Accepted forms of payment are Visa, MasterCard, Discover and cash. Find a coupon for $2 off in the back of the Official Visitor Guide.
- Weather: Be sure to check the weather before you go. Part of the highway could be closed due to snow. Always bring a jacket, even in the summer months. The temperature is, on average, close to 30 degrees cooler at the top. Find the Pikes Peak Summit forecast here: National Weather Service.
- Picnic Areas: Picnic areas can be found along the highway. Look for the pull-offs with the picnic signs on the side of the road and on the map that you will receive at the tollgate.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Find out about vehicles permitted on the highway here.
- Safety: For safety information visit the Pikes Peak – America's Mountain website.
