Pikes Peak rises above Colorado Springs, and you can reach its 14,115-foot summit by cog railway from Manitou Springs. The journey takes about three hours round trip, so plan ahead for the departure, changing conditions and the effects of high altitude.
- Railway route: 9 miles from Manitou Springs to the summit.
- Typical operating pattern: Year-round, with daily summer service and fewer departures in fall and winter.
- Time needed: About three hours for the round trip, including approximately 40 minutes at the summit.
- Ticket basics: Online reserved admission starts at $67 for adults and $57 for children, before taxes and additional fees.
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Ways to Reach the Summit
The summit can be reached by the Pikes Peak Highway or the cog railway; the railway’s route and visit details offer a clear way to plan a summit trip.
The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway travels from its Depot in Manitou Springs to the summit. Its route passes Ruxton Creek in Englemann Canyon, Minnehaha Falls, Deer Park and Mountain View siding. The Depot is at 515 Ruxton Avenue in Manitou Springs, 6 miles west of Colorado Springs.
For other outdoor time in the area, the Garden of the Gods visit guide covers trails and access.
Taking the Cog Railway
The cog railway round trip takes approximately three hours, including time at the summit.
The train takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to climb to the summit, where it stays for approximately 40 minutes, then takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to return to the Depot.
It does not stop along the way or turn around at the summit. If you face forward on the ascent, you will face backward on the return.
The railway operates year-round. It runs daily in summer, while fall and winter have a condensed number of departures. The railway recommends buying tickets in advance because journeys can sell out and walk-up availability is not guaranteed.
Online reserved admission starts at $67 for adults and $57 for children; taxes and additional fees apply, and walk-up tickets depend on availability.
Allow time to get settled before departure: the railway recommends arriving 30 minutes early. Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure, and you must be aboard and seated at least 10 minutes before it.
If you are adding time in the departure town, the Manitou Springs day-trip guide covers things to do there.
Weather, Altitude and Safety
Summit conditions can change quickly, and the elevation can affect you regardless of your age or fitness.
The railway says summit temperatures can be about 30 degrees cooler than at the Manitou Springs Depot. Bring a jacket or dress in layers. It also recommends sturdy walking shoes: summit terrain is rocky and may have snow or ice, so leave high heels behind.
At 14,115 feet, lightheadedness and disorientation can occur. The railway advises acclimating at lower altitude, avoiding strenuous exercise on your first day and staying hydrated. Severe weather or excessive snow may prevent the train from reaching the summit; changing conditions can also lead to a train already en route being directed not to continue.
There are no restrooms onboard, so use the Depot facilities before boarding. The summit Visitor Center is cashless; dining and retail locations accept major credit cards and contactless payments.
Planning the Drive from North Colorado Springs
Plan this visit around the railway’s departure from Manitou Springs, and confirm current operating details before setting out.
Departure dates and times vary, and there is no fixed daily timetable. Before you go: Check the official site before you go for departure details, ticket availability and any changes to service.
FAQs
How long is the Pikes Peak Cog Railway trip?
The round trip takes approximately three hours, including about 40 minutes at the summit.
Does the train run throughout the year?
Yes. It operates year-round, with daily departures in summer and a condensed number of departures in fall and winter.
Can weather affect the summit journey?
Yes. Severe weather or excessive snow may prevent the train from reaching the summit, and conditions can change while it is en route.