Road Trip or Rail Ride: How to Reach the Top of Pikes Peak

If you’re heading to Colorado Springs and only have time for one big adventure, make it Pikes Peak. It’s the iconic spot—the one that inspired “America the Beautiful.” And once you reach the summit at 14,115 feet you’ll understand why.

Now, here’s the big question: Should you drive to the top or hop aboard the historic cog railway?

We’ve done both, and honestly, each experience was memorable.

Our First Trip: Winding Roads and White-Knuckle Turns

The first time we visited Pikes Peak, it was January. That crisp kind of cold that turns your nose pink in seconds. We decided to drive up the winding road that climbs and climbs with every turn.

Driving up Pikes Peak feels like stepping into a postcard. Sweeping views. Jagged mountain edges. A whole city shrinking beneath you. It’s stunning, but it’s not for the faint of heart.

If you’re nervous about heights or twisty mountain roads, you’ll want to think twice. But if you’re up for the challenge, the reward is huge.

Snow. And wind. And freezing cold. Even in January, it was colder than we expected and we were bundled up in full-on winter gear. Bring a heavy jacket, hat, and gloves.

The drive uses a good chunk of gas. We burned through at least a half tank getting up and back down. So, fill up your tank before you hit the base of the mountain. You don’t want to be watching your fuel gauge drop while navigating those curves!

Check the weather report before you drive up Pikes Peak, sometimes the road is closed.

Pike’s Peak Trip II: Riding the Rails in May

Our second trip to Pikes Peak was in May, and this time, we decided to switch things up and take the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway. And guess what? We still needed winter jackets. There was snow at the top even over Memorial Day weekend.

The train ride is a completely different vibe. It’s relaxing, scenic, and full of fun facts about the history of the region. The train slowly climbs up the mountain, and you don’t have to do a thing except sit back and enjoy the view.

Make a reservation if you can. The train fills up fast especially on weekends and holidays. If you end up on standby, be ready to wait.

Go for the three-seat side of the car. That’s the side with the best views going up. The train doesn’t reverse directions on the way back down, so you’ll see the same side both ways.

The full round-trip ride takes about three hours, and it includes a stop at the summit where you can stretch your legs, grab a snack at the café, and do a little shopping at the gift shop.

Just be ready for that massive temperature drop—it’s often 30 degrees colder at the top compared to the base, sometimes more.

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Pikes Peak – Should you drive or take the train?

Whether you drive or take a train this is a beautiful not to be missed spot in Colorado Springs. If you are visiting in the winter,  visit as early in the day as possible as weather often determines how far you will be able to go.

Roads are narrow, winding and probably not for someone afraid of heights. But the drive offers an awesome view of the city and if you are lucky some wildlife.

A Few Quick Tips Before You Go

• Dress warm—even in summer. Layers, coats, hats—the whole shebang.
• Fill your gas tank if you’re driving. No one wants to stress about fuel on a mountain road.
• Bring water and snacks. Especially helpful at altitude.
• Watch the weather. Winter storms can pop up fast and may close the road to the summit.
• Be altitude-aware. Some people feel dizzy or short of breath at 14,000 feet. Take it slow.

Whether you’re looking for your next bucket list view or planning a scenic day trip in Colorado, Pikes Peak delivers.

For us, both the drive and the train were unforgettable in their own ways. We’d do both again in a heartbeat. But no matter how you reach the top make sure you go.

This is one of those “America the Beautiful” moments you’ll carry with you long after you’ve come back down.