The Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway carries visitors on an unforgettable ride up to the summit of Pikes Peak. At an elevation of 14.115 feet, the view from the top takes in four states, the continental divide, the cities of Denver and Colorado Springs, and many more sights. This is a fun adventure for families, friends and groups.
History of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway was started in 1890 by Zalmon Simmons, founder of the Simmons Beautyrest Mattress Company, originally carrying passengers from Manitou Springs to the Halfway Hotel on Pikes Peak. In 1891 the line was extended to the summit and has run there ever since.
The original steam locomotives were custom built for the railway by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Rolling stock and equipment were upgraded as new and better technology became available. Today the railway operates passenger cars built by the Swiss Locomotive and Machine Works of Winterthur, Switzerland, pulled by General Electric diesel locomotives.
Train service on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway has increased from one train daily in the early years to a present day schedule of 6-8 daily trains in high season and 1-5 daily trains during winter months, weather permitting.
Scenic Train Rides on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
In addition to the fun and excitement of riding in a high altitude train, passengers enjoy breathtaking views of the scenery around Pikes Peak. The train passes through four life zones during its journey to the summit.
Foothills Zone From 6000-8000 feet elevation, grass meadows and pine forests dominate this area just above the railway station. Look for small mammals such as foxes, coyotes, skunks, rabbit, chipmunks, squirrels and raccoons while passing through the foothills zone.
Montane Zone From 8000 to 10,000 feet elevation, this zone includes aspen stands famous for their bright yellow fall foliage, as well as juniper, fir and spruce forests. Look for mule deer, elk, porcupine, and the occasional black bear in this zone.
Sub Alpine Zone From 10,000 to about 11,500 feet elevation, Englemann spruce trees are the most common vegetation. In the higher reaches of this zone trees are stunted and gnarled, bent by strong winds. Flag trees have all of their branches growing in one direction from the trunk. Look for small mammals and birds such as woodpeckers, warblers, grosbeaks and crossbills. Mule deer, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and black bears may also be seen.
Alpine Zone From about 11,500 feet to the summit at 14,115 feet, above tree line, the ground is covered by tundra grasses, moss, lichen and sedges. Small, fragile wildflowers may be seen. Here you get the best opportunity to see Rocky Mountain bighorn bheep, the Colorado state mammal, as well as smaller marmots and pikas. Raptors such as golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and falcons frequent the peak, as well as ravens and the white tailed ptarmigan.
Family Activities on Pikes Peak
Barr Trail A 12.6 mile hike from the lower trailhead, just above the Pikes Peak Cog Railway depot in Manitou Springs, to the upper trailhead east of the Summit House, with an elevation gain of 7510 feet. The trial passes Barr Camp along the way.
Crystal Creek Visitor’s Center is a must stop for the scenic views. Self guided nature trail close by. Gift shop.
North Slope Recreation Area Popular area for boating and fishing, with breathtaking views and mountain scenery. An unpaved road leads to the North and South Catamount Reservoirs, with picnic grounds, fishing and hiking and biking trails. The unmarked Peak View Photo Stop, between mile markers 7 and 8, offers panoramic views of the summit. The Halfway Picnic Ground offers table and restroom facilities. Interpretive signs and trails are nearby.
Glen Cove Inn Originally built as a private cabin in 1886, the location was later developed into a way station for travelers on the old carriage road. Today the Glen Cove Inn houses a restaurant and gift shop. Rock climbing and gemstone panning offered during summer months.
Pikes Peak Summit House National Historic Landmark at the top of Pikes Peak, elevation 14115 feet. Walk around the summit, visit the observation deck and the America the Beautiful monument. Grab a bite to eat inside the Summit House or shop for souvenirs in the gift shop. Try the world famous donuts, the only ones in the world produced above 14,000 feet!
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