Day 3 - Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Garden of the Gods
One of the most notable summits in the country, America's
Mountain - Pikes Peak, greets us this morning. Aboard the Manitou
& Peak Cog Railway, we climb along the 9-mile course to the
top. The brand new railcars are equipped with oversized windows for
sweeping 360-degree views over the Englemann Canyon, Ruxton Creek
that lies within it, and Minnehaha Falls.
Before catching our first glimpses of the summit, beautiful
views of Deer Park overtake the tracks. At the summit, there's
plenty of time to soak up the scenery, which includes two mountain
ranges, small mining towns from Colorado's past, and, on clear
days, distant views of Denver. You could also learn about the
mountain's history at the Summit House before the cog railway makes
its descent back down the mountainside.
Next, we set our sights on awe-inspiring rock formations formed
millions of years ago at Garden of the Gods. Over 1,360 acres of
land comprise this National Natural Landmark, with hiking trails
and scenic roadways weaving throughout the grounds to provide
unbeatable perspectives on these amazing sandstone and limestone
rocks. During our visit, gaze at some of the most famous
formations, some of which jut 300 feet or more into the sky. The
evening is yours to enjoy one of the onsite restaurants or sightsee
through the city.
Overnight Colorado Springs, CO.
Includes