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Royal GorgeRegion Guide

An independent guide to the Royal Gorge region of Colorado, featuring Canon City, the Arkansas River corridor, and surrounding attractions.

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  4. Pikes Peak Day Trip
Pikes Peak Day Trip
easy$$

Pikes Peak Day Trip

Summit America's most famous mountain via car, cog railway, or on foot—a memorable day trip from the Royal Gorge region.

America's Mountain

Pikes Peak inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful" after viewing the expanse from its 14,115-foot summit. Located about an hour from Canon City, the mountain offers multiple ways to reach the top and spectacular views that can stretch into four states.

Getting to the Top

The Pikes Peak Highway allows you to drive to the summit (toll road, weather permitting). The newly rebuilt Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a scenic train ride to the top. Ambitious hikers can tackle the Barr Trail, a challenging 13-mile ascent.

At the Summit

The summit house offers food, exhibits, and famous high-altitude donuts. Temperatures at the top can be 30-40 degrees cooler than below—bring layers regardless of conditions in Canon City.

Highlights

  • 14,115-foot summit
  • Drive, ride cog railway, or hike
  • Famous summit donuts
  • Views spanning four states
  • America's Mountain
  • About 1 hour from Canon City

Sources

  • https://pikespeak.us.com

Details

Duration
Full-day
Difficulty
Easy - suitable for all
Price Range
Moderate
Seasonal Notes
Highway open May-September typically. Cog railway operates year-round. Weather at summit can differ drastically from base.

Contact & Location

Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, CO

More

Garden of the Gods Day Trip

Garden of the Gods Day Trip

Visit Colorado Springs' famous red rock park, an easy day trip from Canon City featuring dramatic sandstone formations and free admission.

Learn more
Victor Ghost Town Day Trip

Victor Ghost Town Day Trip

Explore the authentic gold mining town of Victor, where Victorian buildings and active mining operations preserve Colorado's mining heritage.

Learn more
View all