As the former CEO of Fairfield Energy Colorado Springs knows, there are many exciting things to do in the area of CO Springs that keep visitors coming again and again. Among those things is going to the top of Pikes Peak, which is one of Colorado’s many mountains that measure over 14,000 feet in elevation. What makes Pikes Peak so special is a number of things. First, it is the official source of inspiration for Katharine Lee Bates’ “America the Beautiful”, which has also helped earn the mountain’s nickname, “America’s Mountain”. Second, it is the second most visited mountain on the planet, next to Mt. Fuji. Third, there are three ways in which you can get to the top, where with many of Colorado’s “fourteeners” there is only one.
By Foot
For the ambitious hiker, Pikes Peak is a challenge worth climbing. The trail to the top takes roughly eight hours, so make sure to time it correctly so you are hiking during the proper daytime hours. Campsites are also available at the trail head for those who want to get an extra early start.
By Car
Pikes Peak is one of the two fourteeners in Colorado that have paved roads leading to the top. The road going up Pikes Peak is home to numerous car and bike races throughout the year.
By Train
What makes Pikes Peak most unique is the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, a passenger train that takes people on a scenic and steady ride to the top.