Pikes Peak: All You Need to Know

Colorado Spring's best known gem is Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak towers over top of the Pikes Peak National Forest giving way to magnificent views, scenic trails, and jaw-dropping overlooks along the way. To reach the peak you travel 19 miles up the winding and steep Pikes Peak Highway.

The day we went the highway was closed after mile marker 16 due to construction so we were only able to drive up to that point. Once we reached the end of the road there was a massive parking lot and small rock formation that has a few little trails to get you to some unbelievable vantage points where you can see the backdrop of the snow covered Rocky Mountains in the distance. Although we were unable to drive beyond this point, there was a narrow path that continued on towards the peak with the trailhead starting directly across from the parking area. We hiked approximately a mile or so out before turning back but even that mile hike led us to some additional amazing views and great photo opportunities.

A few pointers if you plan on making the trek through Pikes Peak National Forest. First, you do need a ticket to enter the park. It was $14 dollars for a general admission day pass and only $11 if you have the National Park Pass.

Secondly, once at the top be prepared for varying weather conditions. Since you are over 14,000 ft high, the wind really can whip around at that level and the temperature does drop so I would recommend taking along a light jacket and possibly pants depending on the time of year and specific weather that day. It felt pretty cold and was extremely breezy when we were there so I had a light wind jacket and hood I threw on once we reached the top. I wore shorts but would have likely been slightly more comfortable in pants. Although it was cold and windy, don't let that fool you though. Be sure to pack along some sunscreen because on a sunny day you can still get sunburned even though it may only feel like it’s in the 50s with the windchill.

Lastly, be sure to remember to put your vehicle in low gear for the return trip back down so you have a smooth drive out of the park and save your brakes… and your wallet. They do have a break check station not too far after you start the descent to ensure those brakes aren’t overheating.

Thanks for continuing to follow along on our journey. Check out our Pikes Peak photos here.