Pikes Peak – America's Mountain
PIKES PEAK SHUTTLE BUS
From May 23 to August 10, 2025, shuttles will be circulating on Pikes Peak with stops at Crystal Reservoir (mile 6), the shuttle parking lot (mile 7), Glen Cove (mile 13), Devil's Playground (mile 16) and the summit (mile 19).
Prices are $35/adult, $10/child and 5 or under ride free. If you have 3 or more children, tickets for additional children will drop to $5. Reserve your spot now on drivepikespeak.com
ALWAYS WEATHER DEPENDENT. Please call 719-385-7325 for the most up-to-date road conditions.
What you can do
- Take in the Views
- Explore the Summit Visitor Center
- Learn the History
- Watch for Wildlife
Get into the details
Looking for fun things to do in Colorado Springs? How about driving to the top of Pikes Peak, one of the most-visited mountains on the planet? This majestic Colorado 14er (that’s a mountain over 14,000 feet in elevation — 4,267 meters for metric users) is one of the few places so high in elevation that is also accessible to experience first-hand by people of all ages and abilities.
Get Pikes Peak reservations and take a trip to the summit to experience one of the best Colorado Springs attractions. In fact, it is one of the coolest things to do in Colorado.
The safe and scenic Pikes Peak Highway provides you the opportunity to enjoy 19 miles of mountain terrain, with frequent pull-offs for you to get out, stretch your legs and take photos. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views, four different Colorado life zones and unique animal sightings, like the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep and yellow-bellied marmots.
The “Meet the Ranger” program is the perfect place to learn about Pikes Peak’s history, geology, nature, wildlife and events. With so much to explore, you’ll never be wondering what do in Colorado Springs.
Stop along the way at the North Slope Recreation Area, where licensed fisherman can try their luck for elusive trout (May-Oct., see website for in-depth information) and adventure-seekers can hike and bike on nearby trails. Crystal Reservoir Gift Shop and the Historic Glen Cove Inn are also can’t-miss Colorado attractions on your journey to the top.
At The Top
When you reach the summit, you will find the Summit Visitor Center, where you can get some world-famous hot and fresh donuts (served daily), hot coffee, flavorful fudge and a variety of cool gifts to commemorate your 14,115-foot climb. You will be able to enjoy all the best things to eat at one of the best places to visit in Colorado.
From the summit’s various viewing areas, you’ll absolutely want to snap photos of Pikes Peak’s incredible scenery. On the clearest days, you can see five states (Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Kansas) and even the curvature of the earth fading into the distance.
Things to know
- There's always a 30-40 degree difference from the base of the mountain to the top. Check road conditions before you go at 719-385-7325
- Check out their webcam page for a live look at the summit
- Reservations are required during the summer months
- Shuttles will be available from May 23 - August 10
From $10 / adult
Price List
Drive to the Summit:
Timed Entry Permit (required to drive past mile 7): $2 / vehicle
Adult: $10
Child (6-15): $5
Military (with ID): $8
Carload (up to 5 people): $35
Shuttle to the Summit:
Adult: $35
Child (6-15): $10
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily | Last entry at 3 p.m.
2-3 hours round-trip
Exertion level
Attraction type
- Family, Thrilling, Laid Back, Outdoors, Historic
FAQs
How do I get to the Gateway entrance?
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain and the entrance to the Pikes Peak Highway are located west of Colorado Springs in Cascade. Follow the directions below, or enter 5089 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, CO 80809 into your GPS or phone.
Off Highway 24: – Head west past Manitou Springs. Turn left at the first light (Fountain Ave.) into the town of Cascade. Follow signs for the highway and for Santa's Workshop. You will soon reach the Pikes Peak Gateway.
How much gas do I need?
Have a minimum of a ½ tank of fuel.
What do I do if I start to feel dizzy or lightheaded?
Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, poor appetite, nausea and impaired judgement. The best treatment is to retreat to lower altitude. Drinking plenty of fluids and acclimating to the area prior to visiting can help with symptoms.
Can we use our National Park pass?
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is not a national park so a national park pass cannot be used.
Are there vehicle restrictions?
The purpose of this policy is to define the minimum vehicle and bus requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety of visitors and staff on the Pikes Peak Highway.
Cars and Non-Commercial Truck Restrictions
- Automatic Transmissions: Must have a “1” or “L” on the shifter to be allowed on the highway. Hybrid Transmissions may have a “B” which is also acceptable. Transmissions showing an “S” or “M” must demonstrate that this shifter will allow the transmission to be locked into 1st gear.
Bus and RV Requirements and Restrictions
- Wheelbase: Bus or RV wheelbase cannot exceed 19 ft or 228 inches and can not exceed 24′ in overall length for any bus or RV operating on the Pikes Peak Highway.
- Brakes: Buses operating with less than a 21-passenger capacity may operate with standard hydraulic brake systems. Examples: Gray line or People Movers
- Buses operating over 21 passengers must have air brakes with a sufficient retarder system or engine brake. Examples: Durham, school activity buses or church buses
Operators
All bus operators must have the required C.D.L. permit for the size bus and load they are carrying.
Out of state bus operators and vehicles must be pre-approved by the Pikes Peak Manager and must meet the above requirements. Approval must be requested, in writing, a minimum of 14-days prior to the planned visit.
All operators are encouraged to have experience driving high-altitude mountain highways.
Commercial Coaches or Charters: Most vehicles will not meet the above requirements and are discouraged
4. Scooters
- Any scooter that meets the motorcycle motor vehicle regulations according to the Colorado State Statute are allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway.
- More than 50cc or 4476 watts
- Certificate of title and vehicle registration (license plate and title)
- Proof of valid insurance
Prohibited Vehicles
- No Pull-Behind Trailers or Campers regardless of size. This includes bicycle and motorcycle trailers.
- No ATV or OHV’s allowed
- No Mopeds or Scooters that do not meet the requirements above.
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain staff reserves the right to refuse any vehicle access to the Pikes Peak Highway if they do not meet these requirements.
Is Pikes Peak closed during PPIHC race week?
Pikes Peak Highway is closed to visitors on race day. Check out https://ppihc.org/ for the most current race information.
Where can I check road conditions?
Call 719-385-7325 and press 1 twice, they will tell you the weather/ road conditions!
Why do I need to stop at the Brake Check Station?
Hot brakes can fail. Drive down the mountain in low gear or low range. Let your transmission do the work. Save your brakes. If you are unsure how to use your low gears, ask a Ranger for help.
If you have to pull off and cool down once you finish your descent, it's okay! Take a stroll while they cool and have the peace of mind that you'll be able to head to your next adventure safely.
What are your hours?
Complete hours/rates here.
Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is open year-round – weather permitting. Conditions change frequently. It is recommended to call the pre-recorded information line to get the most accurate information.
The staff updates the info approximately 30 minutes prior to opening and as conditions change throughout the day. Call 719-385-7325 and select option 1 for current road conditions. Hours and rates change seasonally.
Are there any age or health restrictions?
The drive is not recommended for infants under the age of six months or anyone with a history of cardiac or respiratory problems. Consult your physician prior to your visit if you have concerns.
Location
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