Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak is 4,300 metres tall and commands fantastic views, as well as being home to a hair-raising mountainside train. The peak was named for the explorer Zebulon Pike, and the team he lead to the area in 1806. Later, the celebrated poem “America the Beautiful” by Katherine Lee Bates was written following her experience on this lofty peak looking over the imposing Rocky Mountains.One of the best ways to experience the mountain is on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The incredible three-hour return trip is on the highest railway of this type in the world. Depart from Ruxton Creek in Englemann Canyon, pass by cascading Minnehaha Falls and on through “Hell Gate”, a natural passage in the mountains. The second half of the journey is marked by a sharp ascent up Pikes Peak with fabulous panoramas over the surrounding valleys, lakes and stunning mountain ranges.You can get off the train for 40 minutes here to take in the vista, but this is the longest allowed as some people can suffer from altitude sickness (due to there being less oxygen in the air at this height). Any symptoms which may appear can be expected to disperse during the trip back down the mountain.Experienced hikers can set about walking the 19 kilometres from here to the summit along Barr Trail. This is a tough climb, which includes some forested parts, crossings of mountain streams and some rugged ascents. It takes six to ten hours, depending on your speed and the conditions. Always walk in a group, and never attempt the climb in bad weather conditions.Though the summit is open year round, snow on rail and road often render it inaccessible during the colder months – spring and summer are the best times to visit. There is a restaurant at the top, but be aware that this can be very busy, so you may prefer to bring a packed lunch with you. Tickets for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway should also be booked ahead of your visit.Make sure to enjoy the surrounding area while you’re here also, as its wildness is perfect for hillwalking and white-water rafting.Pikes Peak is found 113 kilometres south of Denver. You can also drive to the top of the mountain on a toll road. This is a 61 kilometre journey, and can be expected to take you two hours. There is a small amount of parking at the peak.