The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

After completing an expansive restoration project in 2021, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway is back on track to usher in a new era of adventure on Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain. A renovated depot, new trains and miles of new tracks are poised to take Colorado adventurers on an age-old journey that has delighted visitors to the Pikes Peak region for over 130 years.

The excursion begins at the newly renovated Cog Railway Depot in the foothills of historic Manitou Springs. The gift shop is packed with fantastic gifts and fun Cog memorabilia to commemorate your experience. You can also pick up tasty snacks to enjoy as you ride — everything from local Colorado snacks and trail mix to ice cream.

From there, you’ll board the train and embark on a 9-mile journey to Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot summit. Along the way, you’ll travel through Englemann Canyon, the Pike National Forest, and Inspiration Point and be treated to stories about the region’s history.

It goes without saying that the views along the Cog Railway route are exceptional — and we don’t just mean the panoramic views beyond the mountain. Cog riders are treated to glimpses of the Pikes Peak region that is typically only traveled by experienced backcountry hikers, including unique rock formations, high-elevation flora and fauna, pristine landscapes and historical landmarks. The train travels through multiple life zones, and you’ll have ample opportunities to view the unique attributes of each one. Your camera will need a long nap from all the overtime it will put into capturing the journey.

At The Top

At the top of Pikes Peak, you and your fellow travelers will be given 40 minutes to explore the summit and take in the stunning sights. On a clear day, you can see five states from the summit: Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Kansas. The brand-new Summit Visitor Center experience offers multiple points to take in the views, complete with interesting facts about the region.

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway isn’t just a round-trip experience, either. Visitors can also use the Cog Railway for a one-way trip up or down the mountain. Hike to the top of Pikes Peak on the 13-mile Barr Trail route and book a ride on the Cog for your return trip — your weary legs will thank you. Alternatively, take a one way ride up to the summit and then bike down the Pikes Peak Highway for 19 miles of twisting, turning, and downhill fun.