Things to do nearPikes Peak - America's Mountain

Pikes Peak America's Mountain has drawn explorers, artists, and travelers since Zebulon Pike attempted its summit in 1806, though he never reached the top. The peak sits within Pike National Forest and is accessible from the historic town of Manitou Springs via the Pikes Peak Highway, a 19-mile toll road that climbs through ecosystems ranging from montane forest to alpine tundra. The road was fully paved in 2011, making the drive smoother, though its tight switchbacks and sheer drop-offs still command respect and a careful pace.

Hikers can tackle the Barr Trail, a rigorous 13-mile route from Manitou Springs that gains roughly 7,800 feet in elevation and passes through Barr Camp, a historic backcountry shelter where overnight stays are possible. At the summit, the recently rebuilt Summit Visitor Center offers exhibits on the mountain's geology and cultural history, along with those famous high-altitude doughnuts that have been a tradition for generations.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, held annually since 1916, brings motorsport enthusiasts from around the world to watch competitors race to the summit. Wildlife sightings along the way are common, with marmots and bighorn sheep frequently spotted above treeline. The mountain's prominence on the Front Range means it is visible from much of Colorado Springs and the surrounding plains, serving as a constant landmark. Few peaks in the lower 48 states combine this level of accessibility with genuine alpine grandeur, making Pikes Peak America's Mountain a destination that resonates long after the drive back down.