Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak is part of the Rocky Mountains, and is the most visited mountain in North America. It is the second most visited mountain in the world behind Mount Fuji. Pikes Peak is not a volcano, but it was formed from molten rock beneath the Earth's surface that cooled and then pushed up through the crust millions of years ago. The mountain became part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase. The Pikes Peak Timberland Reserve was established in 1892. This eventually became the Pike National Forest.

Fast Facts

1. Elevation: 14,115 ft
2. A portion is designated a National Historic Landmark
3. Pikes Peak Highway is 19 miles one way
4. 15,000 people attempt to climb the 13 mile trail to the top of Pikes Peak each year
5. July: Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
6. August: Pikes Peak Marathon
7. December 31: AdAmAn Club New Years Fireworks display
8. Toll road costs $35 per car or $10 per adult and $5 per child
9. Named for Zebulon Pike
10. Originally called Pike's Peak, but the apostrophe was later removed
11. Pikes Peak or Bust became a slogan of the Colorado Gold Rush
12. Inspired the song America The Beautiful
13. Weather: Colorado Springs

Visitor Tips

1. Allow 2 hours for the round trip to drive the summit
2. Do not ascend the summit if you have health problems
3. Make sure your car is in good shape before driving it up the summit
4. Engine break on the way down to avoid overheating your brakes
5. Don't litter
6. Bring plenty of water and snacks
7. Use turnouts to let faster vehicles pass you on the way up

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