Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Explore Pikes Peak with a Self-Guided Audio Tour for Just $15.29

The Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour offers a flexible way to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic mountain roads. Priced at $15.29 per group—which covers up to 4 people—this tour provides a full audio guide that you can use for up to a year. The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, making it an ideal option for those who want to explore at their own pace without the pressure of a guided group.

Participants download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action after booking, enabling offline access so you don’t need cellular service during the drive. Since this is not an entrance ticket, visitors should check the opening hours of attractions along the route separately, as admission is not included. The tour suits independent travelers and small groups looking for an affordable, informative adventure up Pikes Peak, with plenty of scenic stops and stories along the way.

Key Points

• Affordable self-guided experience at $15.29 per group, ideal for up to 4 people
• Downloadable offline audio guides ensure smooth navigation without cell service
• Multiple scenic stops along the route, including Glen Cove and Devil’s Playground
• Learn stories about gold miners, Ute paths, and racing history through engaging narration
• Flexible timing allows starting anytime between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM
• No attraction tickets included, so check opening hours of stops separately

Starting Point at 5099 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade, CO

The tour begins at the address 5099 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade, CO, with clear instructions provided via email and text once booking is complete. There’s no need for a guide to meet you on-site, as this is a fully self-guided experience. You simply launch the app, follow the audio cues, and enjoy the journey at your own speed, with the ability to pause or skip sections at any time. The starting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making access straightforward.

Ascend the Legendary Pikes Peak Highway

The core of this tour is the drive itself, which takes you up the 14,000-foot summit of Pikes Peak. The route offers breathtaking vistas and access to several key stops that enrich the experience. The ascent reveals diverse ecosystems and spectacular views, perfect for photography and quiet reflection. Since the tour is designed for self-guided exploration, it allows for flexible pacing, whether you prefer a brisk drive or a leisurely day with plenty of stops.

The Iconic Stop at Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

The first major highlight is the Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain viewing area. Although no admission is included, this spot boasts panoramic views of Colorado’s rugged landscape. At this point, travelers can take in the scenery, snap photos, and get a sense of the mountain’s majestic scale. The tour emphasizes the mountain’s significance in Colorado history and its status as a national icon.

Cascade: A Historic Observation Site

At the Cascade stop, visitors find a site with a history dating back to 1890. Originally a stop along a cog railway line, this observation point offers insights into the area’s transportation history. The site is free to visit and provides a great opportunity to stretch your legs, enjoy views, and learn about the early days of mountain travel.

Crystal Creek Reservoir and Water Supply Insights

The Crystal Creek Reservoir is another stop where the tour highlights the importance of this water source for Colorado Springs. It’s a practical reminder of human ingenuity in maintaining a reliable water supply for the city, alongside the natural beauty of the area. The stop is free, allowing ample time for photos and appreciation of the reservoir’s contribution to local life.

North Catamount Reservoir as Part of Water Infrastructure

The North Catamount Reservoir joins the list of water sources supplying the region. As with other reservoirs, this stop offers insight into how natural and engineered systems work together to provide essential resources. The tour does not include admission fees for visiting these spots, making them excellent free options for sightseeing.

Break at Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Though named after the Cog Railway, this stop is more of a convenient parking area for a quick break, rather than a railway ride. The location is ideal for stretching and taking in views before continuing the ascent. The tour emphasizes the railway’s historical significance, but the stop itself is free and accessible.

Halfway Marker at Glen Cove Visitor Center

The Glen Cove Visitor Center marks the halfway point up Pikes Peak. It’s a well-known marker for travelers, offering a chance to learn more about the route, the mountain’s ecology, and history. Visitors can pause here, explore exhibits if available, and prepare for the second half of the ascent.

Devil’s Playground: A Stark Landscape

The Devil’s Playground presents a barren, rocky landscape with no playground equipment but a striking natural environment. The narration explains how this area can be active during thunderstorms, with lightning dancing across the terrain. It’s a dramatic and somewhat haunting stop, perfect for those interested in the mountain’s natural phenomena.

The Bottomless Pit: A Rocky Mystery

At the Bottomless Pit, visitors can throw rocks over the edge, observing their descent. Despite the name, scientists confirm there is a bottom. This stop offers a fun, interactive moment during the drive, making it suitable for families or those interested in geological features.

Barr Trail: A Historic Path

The Barr Trail is a historic route dating back to the gold rush days. Today, it remains a popular trail for hikers, though the tour notes that it originally was less maintained. The stop offers insights into mountain exploration and gold rush history, with the opportunity to learn about hiking routes if desired.

The Unique Landscape of Devil’s Playground

The Devil’s Playground area showcases a barren, lightning-prone landscape, which adds a dramatic touch to the mountain scenery. The tour explains the natural electrical activity here during thunderstorms, offering an interesting perspective on the mountain’s dynamic environment.

Practicalities and Accessibility

This tour is designed for most travelers and emphasizes hands-free, easy-to-use audio playback. You can connect your device to your car’s stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or AUX, or use headphones for walking sections. The audio app works with Apple CarPlay and support for Android Auto is planned. The tour’s flexible start time and ability to pause make it suitable for different schedules.

The Experience from Glen Cove to the Top

From the halfway point at Glen Cove Visitor Center to the summit of Pikes Peak, the drive becomes more exhilarating, with clearer views and less traffic. The tour guides you through the history, geology, and unique features of this iconic mountain, emphasizing the significance of the Race to the Clouds and the mountain’s cultural history.

The Sum Up: An Informative and Flexible Mountain Drive

This self-guided audio tour provides a comprehensive way to experience Pikes Peak, combining scenic vistas, historical stops, and engaging stories. Its affordable price and offline functionality make it appealing for independent travelers and small groups seeking a personalized adventure. The main limitation remains that admission fees for attractions are separate, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want to access specific sites.

While the tour does not include entrance tickets, it compensates with rich narration, detailed stops, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value flexibility and value, and who want to learn about the mountain’s history, geology, and ecology without a guided group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include park entrance tickets?
No, the tour only provides audio narration. Visitors need to buy tickets separately to access attractions that require entrance fees.

How do I access the tour?
After booking, you’ll receive an email and text with instructions. Download the Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter the provided password, and the tour works offline.

Can I start the tour any time?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be started at any time between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the stops like the Bottomless Pit and scenic viewpoints are family-friendly. The tour is easy to use and doesn’t require physical exertion.

What equipment do I need?
A smartphone with the tour app downloaded, and either car stereo connection or headphones for listening. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto enhances the experience.

What if I face technical issues during the tour?
Support is available — contact the tour provider if audio playback doesn’t work properly or if you need assistance.

Is this tour good for multiple visits?
Absolutely, since you buy once and can use it for up to one year, it’s perfect for a repeat trip or extended stay in Colorado Springs.

How long does the drive take?
Typically, the drive lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on stops and pace.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is mainly driving-based, so physical exertion is minimal, but some stops may involve light walking or standing.

Can I use this tour for hiking or walking portions?
Yes, especially at stops like the Barr Trail, where you can extend your adventure on foot if desired.