Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway

Soaring to an impressive elevation of 14,115 feet, the Pikes Peak Highway offers a scenic adventure like no other. Traversing through stunning alpine landscapes, this half-day tour immerses guests in the captivating history and geology of the region. From breathtaking viewpoints to interpretive insights from knowledgeable guides, the journey promises an unforgettable experience. With a focus on comfort, safety, and exceptional vistas, this tour invites travelers to uncover the true essence of this iconic Colorado landmark.

Key Points

• The tour offers a half-day journey to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet, providing scenic photo stops, wildlife viewing, and complimentary refreshments.
• The small group experience, limited to 14 guests, ensures a personalized adventure with knowledgeable guides sharing insights on history, geology, and the environment.
• The tour includes all fees and taxes, covering the highway toll and timed entry reservation, with free parking available at the convenient meeting point.
• Health and accessibility guidelines are provided, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
• The tour features several stops along the way, including Bigfoot Crossing, Bottomless Pit, and a Scenic Overlook, allowing for exploration and photography.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Scenic Tour of Pikes Peak Highway offers travelers a half-day journey to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet (4,302 meters).

This small group experience is limited to 14 guests, providing a personalized and flexible adventure. Along the way, travelers can enjoy scenic photo stops, wildlife viewing, and complimentary refreshments.

Knowledgeable guides share their expertise on the history, geology, and environment of the region. Highlights include stops at Bigfoot Crossing and Bottomless Pit, offering breathtaking vistas.

With a 4.9 rating and 100% recommendation, this tour provides an informative and unforgettable experience on the iconic Pikes Peak Highway.

Inclusions and Meeting Information

All fees and taxes are included in the Scenic Tour of Pikes Peak Highway. Along with the highway toll fee and timed entry reservation, travelers also receive complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the journey. The tour departs from a convenient meeting point with free parking available, and guests are asked to arrive 5-15 minutes prior to departure.

Meeting Point	Address
Free Parking	111 E Cimarron St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Certain medical conditions and young children may make the tour unsuitable. This half-day adventure offers a comfortable and inclusive experience to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.

Health and Accessibility Guidelines

Is the Scenic Tour of Pikes Peak Highway wheelchair accessible? No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, service animals are allowed.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Babies under 2 years old also shouldn’t participate.

Most travelers can join the tour, though. The guides provide detailed health and accessibility guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all.

Participants should consider their own physical fitness and any medical concerns before booking the tour.

Stops Along the Way

Along the scenic drive, the tour makes several stops that allow travelers to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Pikes Peak. Visitors can step out to explore Bigfoot Crossing, a site known for alleged sightings of the mythical creature. Another stop, the Bottomless Pit, offers a unique geological formation and panoramic views. Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides share insights into the region’s history, ecology, and environmental significance.

Stop	Highlights	Duration
Bigfoot Crossing	Alleged sightings, scenic views	15-20 minutes
Bottomless Pit	Geological formation, panoramic vistas	20-25 minutes
Scenic Overlook	Sweeping vistas of Pikes Peak and surrounding landscapes	10-15 minutes

Knowledgeable Guides and Interpretive Information

Complementing the scenic journey, knowledgeable guides lead the tour, sharing in-depth insights into the region’s rich history, captivating geology, and delicate environmental balance.

They narrate the formation of Pikes Peak, one of the most prominent landmarks in the Rocky Mountains, and explain the unique ecosystem that thrives at high altitudes.

Guides point out significant landmarks, including the Bigfoot Crossing and Bottomless Pit, adding vivid context to the stunning vistas.

With their expertise, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders unfolding before them, enriching the overall Pikes Peak experience.

Photographic Opportunities

What makes the Pikes Peak Highway tour a photographer’s delight? The route offers endless opportunities to capture the region’s breathtaking scenery.

Travelers can stop at designated photo spots to immortalize the sweeping vistas, snow-capped peaks, and abundant wildlife. Guides encourage guests to take their time, ensuring ample time for capturing that perfect shot.

Whether it’s a panoramic view of the Rockies or a close-up of a bighorn sheep, the tour provides the freedom to explore and frame the landscape.

With the highway’s flexible schedule and complimentary refreshments, photographers can enjoy the creative process, resulting in lasting memories of their Pikes Peak adventure.

Refreshments and Comfort

The tour provides travelers with complimentary refreshments and a comfortable journey. Throughout the half-day excursion, snacks and drinks are available to help fuel the adventure.

Whether it’s a crisp bottle of water or a rejuvenating energy bar, the on-board amenities ensure guests stay hydrated and nourished.

The small group size, limited to 14 people, creates an intimate and personalized experience. Plush seating and ample legroom allow for a relaxing ride, while large viewing windows offer unobstructed panoramas of the stunning Pikes Peak landscape.

A delightful blend of refreshment and comfort enhances the overall tour experience.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

How do travelers rate the Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway? With a 4.9 rating based on 91 reviews, the experience is overwhelmingly positive.

Travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, safety, and comfort of the tour. Key feedback includes:

• "The guides were fantastic – very informative and personable."
• "I loved not having to worry about driving and could just enjoy the incredible views."
• "The snacks and drinks were a nice touch, and the stops for photos were perfect."
• "My only suggestion would be to use microphones so everyone can hear the guide clearly."
• "Overall, a must-do if you’re visiting the area. Breathtaking scenery!"

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time of year to take this tour is summer and early fall when the weather is mild and sunny, offering optimal visibility for the scenic drive and photography opportunities along the Pikes Peak Highway.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes complimentary snacks and drinks, but you’re welcome to bring additional items to enjoy during the journey.

Is There Cell Phone Reception Throughout the Pikes Peak Highway?

Cell phone reception along the Pikes Peak Highway can be spotty due to the remote and mountainous terrain. While some areas may have coverage, travelers should expect intermittent or limited connectivity during the tour.

Do the Tour Guides Offer Any Outdoor Gear or Equipment Rental?

The tour guides don’t offer outdoor gear or equipment rentals. Travelers should come prepared with their own suitable clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, and any other necessary items for the high-altitude, mountain environment of the Pikes Peak Highway.

Can We Extend the Tour to Explore the Surrounding Areas?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer the option to extend and explore the surrounding areas. The tour is a pre-designed, half-day journey up to the summit of Pikes Peak with set stops and a limited group size. Additional exploration would need to be arranged separately.

Recap

The Pikes Peak Highway tour offers a breathtaking journey to the summit, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and ample photo opportunities, it’s an unforgettable experience. Visitors can expect personalized attention, fascinating insights, and refreshments throughout the trip, making it a must-do activity for anyone seeking to explore the grandeur of the Colorado Rockies.