A train from Manitou Springs to the top of Pikes Peak, 14,115 feet up. The ride up takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, you get about 40 minutes at the summit, and the whole trip is about 3 hours. There are no restrooms on the train and it doesn't stop on the way.
Know before you go. The railway doesn't list sensory-friendly rides or a quiet car. Here's what it does say about the ride, the summit and the altitude.
Hours
Runs all year. Fall and winter have fewer departures; the ticket page shows dates and times. The round trip is about 3 hours.
“It takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach the summit, with approximately 40 minutes on the top. The full roundtrip is approximately 3 hours.”
“There are no restrooms on board the train. The only restrooms on the mountain are located at the Depot and at the Pikes Peak Visitor Center at the top.” Once it leaves the depot, the train “will not stop until the summit.”
“The train is heated.” “It is always significantly colder at the summit than at the base of Pikes Peak.” At the top, you “can experience a 30-40 degree drop.”
“Children or people with existing health issues and people who cannot communicate their symptoms, should proceed with caution. Young children may not be effectively able to communicate their symptoms.”
“We maintain a strict schedule, and we cannot hold a train when returning from the summit.”
“Strollers and Baby Carriers – Unfortunately, we cannot allow any on the train.” Bags “must be able to remain in your lap or underneath your seats.”
If riding backward could upset your kid, tell them ahead of time that the seat faces the other way coming down.
The conductor tells stories and may even sing at Inspiration Point. Headphones can help if voices are a lot.
what happens if a child gets altitude sickness at the top
Call 719-685-5401More about The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Online reserved seats start at $67 adult and $57 child; walk-up and phone tickets start at $86 and $76. Taxes and fees are extra. Tickets are required for every age.
Refunds or new dates are free more than 7 days ahead. Within 7 days you can reschedule or take store credit for a $20 fee. There are no weather refunds if the train can reach the summit.
Book early: the railway says rides “do sell out quickly.” Parking at the depot is $20; the free Route 33 shuttle runs from the city lots.
For a wheelchair or walker, call the ticket office at 719-685-5401 to reserve space. Accessible seating is limited.
You can bring water. Other than water, no open containers or unsealed drinks.
The railway doesn't recommend the ride for babies under 6 months or anyone with heart or breathing problems.
The Summit Visitor Center is cashless. Pets can't ride; see the service animal policy.
