Time to Ride Pikes Peak

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, America’s highest railway reaching a height of 14,115 feet, is back and promises to be better than ever.

This iconic railway, one of only two cog railways in the U.S., returns in May and will whisk train lovers to the summit where America The Beautiful was penned.

The scenic nine-mile journey to the 14,115 foot National Historic Landmark of Pikes Peak, which takes three hours round trip, showcases unparalleled sightseeing, sweeping Colorado views, and the opportunity to enjoy the new Manitou Depot and Pikes Peak Visitor Center.

Guests begin and end their journey at the new Manitou Depot, featuring an expansive passenger platform and viewing deck for photographs and two retail stores with snacks and beverages. Once at the top, guests enjoy the new fully accessible, environmentally sustainable, US$60 million-plus Pikes Peak Visitor Center. In addition to the breathtaking views – made even more dramatic by a new elevated pathway and overlook designed to help protect the mountain’s fragile tundra – guests can enjoy new menu options, digitally interactive displays that bring the history, significance, and geology of the mountain to life, and, of course, a world-famous Pikes Peak donut.

For visitors who would like even more adventure, hiking, biking, and new trail experiences are available. Guests may forgo the round-trip train experience and hike up to Pikes Peak on the 13-mile Barr Trail and ride the train down or take the Cog up and bike down the 19.5 mile downhill adventure from the summit on a guided excursion.  Reservations and tickets for these new experiences will be announced soon.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, America’s highest railway reaching a height of 14,115 feet, is back and promises to be better than ever.

Originally built in 1891 and owned and operated by The Broadmoor since 1925, this historic railway is the highest railroad in America, the highest cog railway in the world, one of Colorado’s top attractions, and one of the nation’s most unique experiences. Since October 2017, it has been undergoing a $100 million renovation of its tracks, cogs, railcars, and depot to create a new and improved journey to the summit.

Travelers who would like to ride the Cog and make their visit even more memorable may stay at The Broadmoor and take advantage of the historic hotel’s one-night package offer, which includes classic accommodations, Cog Railway train tickets for each person on the package.

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Staff Writer

Ultimate Encounters staff writers and contributors are made up of seasoned travel journalists and expedition leaders who have travelled the globe seeking thrilling new experiences for our readers.

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