Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway

Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway: An In-Depth Review

Travelers craving panoramic mountain views and a hassle-free adventure will find this Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway to be a top pick. Promising a journey to 14,115 feet, this half-day experience is designed for those who prefer to sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery rather than worry about navigating winding roads or dealing with parking.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group size—limited to just 14 travelers—ensures a more intimate, personalized experience. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring the mountain’s stories to life, making the journey not just scenic but also educational. Lastly, the combination of breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and fun stops like Bigfoot Crossing offers a memorable adventure.

One potential consideration: if you’re sensitive to altitude or prefer a flexible, entirely independent drive, this guided tour might not be ideal. The experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling and want a comfortable way to reach the summit without the stress of driving on narrow, winding roads.

If your ideal day involves stunning vistas, engaging guides, and exploring Colorado’s famous mountain without the hassle, this tour will likely suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Expert Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with engaging stories about Pikes Peak’s history, geology, and wildlife.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Intimate tours with a maximum of 14 travelers ensure personalized attention.
• Convenient and Stress-Free: No need to worry about driving, parking, or tolls—just relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Multiple Photo Stops: Highlights include Bigfoot Crossing, Bottomless Pit, and the summit with 360-degree views.
• Complimentary Refreshments: Snacks and drinks keep everyone energized during the journey.
• Highly Rated: Consistently perfect reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the overall value.

Introduction: Why Choose This Pikes Peak Tour?

Getting to the top of Pikes Peak has traditionally been a challenging feat, especially with winding roads and narrow switchbacks. This guided tour takes the stress out of the trip, making it accessible and enjoyable for nearly everyone. Whether you’re visiting Colorado Springs for the first time or looking for a scenic day trip, this experience offers a blend of stunning natural beauty and engaging storytelling.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines beautiful vistas with informative narration—making the ride educational and fun at the same time. The small-group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the stops at key points like Bigfoot Crossing and the summit give you plenty of chances to capture memorable photos. Plus, the complimentary snacks are a nice touch, especially after trekking up to high altitudes.

One thing to consider: the tour is limited to 4 hours, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely, all-day experience or want to hike the mountain, this might not be enough. Also, most travelers book at least 25 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and authentic experiences over self-driving. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this a solid way to enjoy Pikes Peak without the stress.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

Your adventure begins at the base of Pikes Peak, where your guide will introduce the mountain’s significance and history. The highlight? The new Summit House at 14,115 feet—an impressive feat of engineering with breathtaking views. The admission fee to reach the summit is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the panoramic scenery that extends into Kansas and New Mexico on clear days.

The reviews emphasize how guides like John make this part special. One reviewer said, “John was very knowledgeable and his love for the land is unmatched,” which makes the descent and ascent even more meaningful. Another reviewer noted the importance of a guide who “shared great history, geology, fauna, and environmental info,” enriching the visual feast.

Stop 2: Bigfoot Crossing Sign

This quirky stop is more than just fun—it’s almost a tradition among visitors. The sign has been placed “for your safety” because some of the most credible Bigfoot sightings have occurred nearby. Reviewers frequently mention they almost always see Bigfoot or get a great photo—adding a playful element to the trip. One guest pointed out that this stop is “a guarantee of a sighting and a fun photo opportunity,” making it a must-do for families and those with a sense of humor.

Stop 3: Crystal Creek Reservoir

Here, you get your first full view of Pikes Peak across a serene body of water. The drive takes you directly over the dam, which is a scenic highlight in itself. The site offers a gift shop, restrooms, and informative plaques about local wildlife and history, making it a convenient and scenic break. Reviewers appreciate this stop for its combination of tranquility and educational value.

Stop 4: Historic Glen Cove Inn

Sitting just below the timber line at 11,450 feet, the Glen Cove Inn feels like stepping back in time. Originally a ski lodge, it offers a first glimpse of the mountain’s snow-capped top most of the year. Here, you can admire the expansive view of Pikes Peak’s summit, along with facilities like restrooms and a gift shop. Reviewers have remarked that this spot offers a “striking view” and a wonderful photo opportunity, with some noting they saw the mountain’s snow-capped peak even in late October.

Stop 5: Devil’s Playground and Bottomless Pit

As you ascend the switchbacks, you’ll encounter Devil’s Playground, a rugged rock formation with a story that remains a fun secret. The highlight for many is the Bottomless Pit, a steep cliff view just below the summit—an ideal scene for family photos. Guests consistently mention how exciting and awe-inspiring this spot is, with one reviewer calling it “a favorite for family photos.” It’s the perfect place to appreciate how close you are to the edge of the mountain and to capture that once-in-a-lifetime shot.

Stop 6: The Summit and Pikes Peak Center

The tour culminates at the Summit House, a modern, high-quality visitor center. Here, you can sample the famous high-altitude donuts, learn about the mountain’s story through exhibits, and browse the gift shop. The outside offers 360-degree views, with clear days allowing you to see into neighboring states. You’ll also have ample time to walk around, take photos at the new Summit sign, and enjoy the incredible scenery that stretches into neighboring states. Many reviews praise the “work-class views”, and visitors mention how guides like John and Rocky made sure everyone was comfortable and safe, even amidst changing weather conditions.

Transportation, Group Size, and Duration

This tour begins at 111 E Cimarron St, Colorado Springs, and lasts around 4 hours—a perfect half-day escape. The transportation is a comfortable van, with a maximum of 14 travelers, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere where your guide can give personalized attention. The drive itself is part of the experience, with the guide navigating the winding roads expertly, often sharing stories and facts along the way.

Most travelers book their spots about 25 days in advance, underlining the tour’s popularity. The fixed duration and small group size make it ideal for those who want a structured but intimate experience without the hassle of self-driving or navigating busy parking lots.

Price and Value

At $109 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Considering that the ticket to the summit is included and that you get a guided experience with snacks and drinks, it’s a cost-effective way to see one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks. Multiple reviewers have called it “worth the money,” especially given the knowledge of guides and the convenience of not driving.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re someone who loves stunning mountain vistas, wants to avoid the stress of driving switchbacks, or simply prefers traveling in a small, guided group, then this tour hits all the right notes. The guides’ expertise shines through, making the experience more than just a scenic drive; it’s an engaging story about America’s Mountain.

Travelers with a sense of adventure, a love for wildlife (Bigfoot sightings are almost guaranteed), and those who want to maximize their time in Colorado Springs will find this experience well worth it. Families, couples, and solo explorers will all benefit from the relaxed, informative, and fun atmosphere.

While the tour is weather-dependent—and cloud cover or high winds may limit summit views—the guides often adapt by sharing stories, history, and photos at various stops. The included amenities like snacks and restroom stops, combined with the small group size, make this a comfortable, memorable way to experience Pikes Peak.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for babies under 2 years old. The small group size and altitude might make it less suitable for very young children.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, layers for changing weather, sunglasses, and a camera will help you enjoy the experience fully. Snacks and drinks are provided, but bringing extra water is always a good idea.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience takes approximately 4 hours, including driving, stops, and sightseeing at the summit.

Is this a guided driving tour or do I drive myself?
You will ride in a comfortable van with an expert guide—no need to drive yourself. This means you can relax and focus on the views and stories.

What is the group size?
Limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Most bookings include free cancellation. If the weather causes the tour to be canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Verdict

This guided Pikes Peak tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Colorado’s iconic mountain without the stress of navigating the roads yourself. The combination of stunning vistas, engaging guides, and fun stops like Bigfoot Crossing makes it ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and storytelling. With excellent reviews praising the guides’ knowledge, the value for money, and the overall experience, it’s a compelling choice for anyone visiting Colorado Springs.

Whether you’re after breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, or simply a comfortable way to reach the summit, this tour provides a memorable, well-organized adventure that’s hard to beat. Your best bet is to book early—especially if you want to secure a spot during peak season—and prepare for a day filled with awe-inspiring scenery and fascinating stories.