Colorado is famous for its outdoors and to us, there’s no better way to experience our state’s natural beauty than by foot. One of Colorado Springs’ main draws — and the #1 rated park in Colorado Springs on TripAdvisor — is Garden of the Gods. The 15-mile trail system at the park tends to be packed during the summer months, so wake up in time for the sunrise here and you’ll see how the park got its name. Hiking a ‘14er — mountains with a summit elevation of more than 14,000 feet — is an item on many a bucket list, and Colorado Springs is home to America’s Mountain: Pikes Peak. It’s a long trek from the trailhead in Manitou Springs to the Summit, but it’s a trek worth the reward! For something a bit more out of the way, head to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park where chasms, spires, hoodoos, and walls of multi-colored clay deposits have drawn everyone from Native Americans to miners over the years.
Pike's Peak
08/08/2019
05/30/2019
America the Beautiful by Bike
Pikes Peak may be one of the main draws in the area — it’s dubbed "America’s Mountain," after all, and serves as the inspiration for "America the Beautiful" — but there’s a path less taken that lends a new perspective and a lot more adventure to this all-American peak. It’s estimated that 500,000 people drive up the mountain each year and a handful take the 13-mile one-way hike up the Barr Trail. But the third alternative, one that gives you the views of the drive at a slightly faster pace than the hike, is to strap on your saddlebags and cycle up the famous Pikes Peak Highway. All 150 turns in the paved road and the pure power of your legs will carry you from the Crystal Reservoir Visitor Center at 9,230 ft. to the Summit at 14,115 ft. — a whopping total of 4,885 ft. in elevation gain. Check the weather before you go, stock up with plenty of water and snacks, keep an eye out for eagles, bighorn sheep, and elk, and most importantly enjoy the ride!
01/23/2019
Hiking Colorado Springs in January
When looking for things to do in Colorado Springs, it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll end up hitting the trails and taking in the incredible scenery of the city’s setting, and there’s no shortage of options when it comes to hiking Colorado Springs. It’s not hard to understand how the Garden of the Gods earned its name or why everyone seems to be talking about it. Catch the area at sunrise or sunset to see the rocks burst into bright colors that bring them to life. Explore the 15 miles of trail by foot, or, hop on a horse for a more "Wild West" infused experience. From the "Pikes Peak or Bust" Gold Rush to the inspiration behind Katharine Lee Bates’ "America the Beautiful," Pikes Peak has beckoned with its unparalleled views, mountain drives, and thrilling trails. North Cheyenne Cañon Park is home to Colorado’s wild creatures and its extensive trail systems that lead to destinations like Helen Hunt Falls, and the starting point for your next great outdoor adventure!
09/20/2018
Fun Fall Weekend Getaways
School is back in session and the height of the summer season is over, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to end. Here are some of our favorite weekend getaways and things to do in Colorado Springs in the fall. Gain a new perspective on the Pikes Peak region on a tour through the air with Royal Gorge Helicopter Tours. The yellows and oranges of the leaves take the views of this 1,200-foot deep canyon to the next level. To see the area at a slower pace, try the sky-high view from a hot air balloon. If heights aren’t your thing, immerse yourself in the autumn trees from the trails, like the Manitou Incline or Cheyenne Mountain State Park. There are plenty of festivals to celebrate the season too, such as Kick Off to Fall Family Festival at Long Neck Pumpkin Farm. Pick up tickets today to take in the lunch, dessert, live music, games and more
08/22/2018
Catching Cutthroat in Colorado Springs
It’s a big deal to feel that pull at the end of your pole and snag a bite from a rainbow trout. And, if you’re fishing in Colorado Springs, you’re nearly guaranteed to get it. The Arkansas River, a recent Gold Medal fishing destination winner, is perfect for any experience level. If you want to take the kids, go to Crystal Creek Reservoir in the Pikes Peak North Slope Recreation Area. If you need a break from fishing, take in the surrounding hiking, biking, and boating. If you’re one who wants to keep a sense of civilization, head to Fountain Creek, which sits just behind Manitou Avenue and is close to restaurants to keep you energized. For some peace and quiet, hike up Cheesman Canyon to the South Platte River and enjoy the solitude of your surroundings. If you’re in need of gear, Angler’s Covey, Pikes Peak Outfitter or The Peak Fly Shop will get you set up and ready to land a catch.
12/27/2017
3 Top Winter Tours of Pikes Peak
With the Pikes Peak Cog Railway taking a winter season respite, you might be wondering if you can still summit America’s Mountain. The good news is—you certainly can get up the mountain to enjoy the glorious snow-filled scenery while capturing sightings of big horn sheep, majestic elk, native bird species and other native wildlife. Here are three of the top winter tours of Pikes Peak.
- Summit Via Hiking the Barr Trail
Those in good physical condition desiring to experience the best winter hiking in the Rockies may want to hit the 12 mile Pikes Peak Barr Trail. Starting at the base camp at Manitou Springs, this hike reaches the summit at 14,115 feet and has trekkers gaining 7900 vertical feet during the journey. However, certain uppermost parts of the trail may be inaccessible during heavy snow conditions, so take a look at local weather before embarking on this hike. Get an early start so snow has a chance to melt for a midday summit, or park for the evening or a few hours at one of the cabins or lean-to’s at Barr Camp Lodge.
- Take a Jeep Tour to the Top
If you want to ride amid the high-country in style while staying dry, warm and relaxed, book a Pikes Peak Jeep Tour through Manitou Springs Adventures. Voted by Colorado Springs Gazette as the ‘Best Day Trip’ in the community, this year round tour provides guests with comfortable transportation to the summit while providing water, trail mix and protein bars to complement the panoramic vistas of the mountainous terrain. Beyond the views from the top of Pikes Peak, enjoy fresh donuts at the gift shop compliments of Manitou Springs Adventures.
- The Bike Pikes Peak Tour
Riders of all abilities can soak in the sights and scents of this winter wonderland with a 95% downhill bike adventure through a professionally guided six hour tour with the Bike Pikes Peak Tour. After gourmet coffee and a light breakfast, your guide will drive you to the summit in warm vans with bikes in tow, and you can even sign up to have a GoPro camera attached to your helmet for nostalgia. Complimentary lunch at a local eatery will conclude the journey.
Situate Yourself for Successful Pikes Peak Treks at Cheyenne Mountain Resort
Immerse yourself in the lap of luxury after your Pikes Peak adventures amid the exceptional hospitality and exquisite amenities at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort. Situated amid 200 scenic acres and graced with a private spa, world-class golf resort, multiple tennis courts and a private lake—what more could you ask for in a winter retreat?
10/27/2017
The Top 3 Ways to Experience Pikes Peak
Nicknamed “America’s mountain,” Pikes Peak is the most visited summit in the U.S. It’s the tallest mountain in the Front Range of the Rockies, and a major tourist destination for travelers visiting nearby Colorado Springs. The peak offers gorgeous panoramic views of Colorado year-round and new challenges every season.
Pikes Peak is a top destination for guests staying at nearby Cheyenne Mountain Resort. Located just 25 miles southeast of the summit, the luxury lodgings include access to a heated pool, sport courts, onsite lake and 18-hole championship golf course designed by Pete Dye. If you’re looking to visit Pikes Peak during your vacay, here are 3 ways to explore Colorado’s most famous Fourteener.
Denver is Mile High City, but Pikes Peak has it beat by a mile. Take one of the iconic red cars of the Pikes Peak Railway up to the summit and you’ll be more than two miles above sea level. While a traditional train wouldn’t even make it halfway, specialized gears allow the cog train to climb steep gradients up to 48%. The 3+ hour trip covers 8.9 miles of track, passing through dense evergreen forests where mule deer roam freely. Look for waterfalls and rock formations during the trip, including a natural passageway called “Hell’s Gate” (don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds). Once you get to the top, travelers are allowed 30-40 minutes to explore and enjoy the view. The cog railway is one of the best ways to see Pikes Peak. You get to experience amazing views without having to brave the 14,115-foot ascent.
Conquer a Fourteener
Be forewarned, this journey is not for the faint of heart – or the unsteady of foot. There are several marked paths up this Fourteener, the most popular of which is Barr Trail. Located adjacent to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the trail is considered an intense route and is recommended for advanced and expert level hikers. It’s about 13 miles up the trail, gaining 7,510 vertical feet as you climb up the mountain. If you opt to take this route, you’ll be rewarded with amazing scenic views of the evergreen forests, plus the gold rush campsites and cityscape visible from the peak. You’ll also have bragging rights. Hikers can take an overnight rest 6.8 miles in at Barr Camp, or get a short respite before continuing. Temperatures plummet as you ascend, so pack extra layers along with water, food and emergency first aid supplies just in case.
Roadways and More
Those keen on seeing the mountain without a train ticket or harrowing hike can take a car ride up the 19-mile winding road of Pikes Peak Highway. It’s paved, so you won’t need 4WD, and takes two or three hours to complete. Stops along the way include the historic Glen Cove Inn, Summit House, and a recreation center with fishing, hiking trails and ranger-led tours. If you don’t feel the need to get up close and personal with America’s Mountain, several local sites offer excellent views of the peak. Stay at Cheyenne Mountain Resort and enjoy unobstructed views of the Rocky Mountain Front Range from Mountain View Restaurant, or travel to the Garden of the Gods for a more relaxed hike within eyeshot of Pikes Peak. You can still grab an Instagram selfie or panoramic shot of the mountain, albeit from a greater distance.
Whether you’re in Colorado Springs for a few days or a week, Pikes Peak is one travel hotspot you don’t want to miss. At Cheyenne Mountain Resort, we offer luxurious lodgings on 217 acres in view of the summit. Call 800-588-0250 to get your Colorado vacay started, or book online.