Pike's Peak a drive to the clouds!

One of the most spectacular drives in Colorado is the journey up Pikes Peak, a towering peak standing at 14,115 feet above sea level, overlooking the city of Colorado Springs. It is an adventure that takes visitors up narrow roads and hairpin turns, offering stunning views, and impressive landscapes. In this blog, we will explore what it is like to drive to the top of Pikes Peak, including the altitude and weather, as well as the iconic Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Firstly, driving up Pikes Peak can be a thrilling experience, but one should be prepared for the altitude and weather, particularly during the summer months. The summer months in Colorado tend to be sunny, warm, and mild, but at higher elevations, temperatures can still drop substantially. Visitors should bring plenty of layers for warmth, bring plenty of sunscreen, and drink plenty of water to combat the effects of high altitude.

The drive to the top of Pikes Peak offers stunning vistas and an opportunity to see a range of wildlife that is unique to Colorado, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and small mammals like marmots and pikas. The route up to the summit is nineteen miles long, and the drive can take approximately two hours with frequent stops for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

At the top of the mountain, visitors will be greeted with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic snow-capped peaks. The view encompasses over 14,000 feet of uninterrupted terrain, making this a once in a lifetime experience.

Along with the breathtaking scenery, Pikes Peak is also famous for its annual Hill Climb event. The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is a car race that has been held annually since 1916. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious car races in North America, attracting racing enthusiasts from around the world. The race sees competitors racing up the nineteen miles of winding road, finishing at the summit of the mountain. It is an event that is not to be missed, and spectators are welcome to witness the thrilling action and be a part of the unfolding history of the race.

In conclusion, driving up to the top of Pikes Peak is an adventure that is sure to take your breath away. It offers an opportunity to see an unique landscape and experience the rich history and culture of Colorado. Visitors need to be prepared for the altitude and bring plenty of layers, sunscreen, and water. The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is an additional attraction that adds to the excitement of this drive. So what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start exploring this magnificent mountain today