The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Cog Railway to Pikes Peak from Manitou Springs

The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a cog railway that operates year-round and climbs Pikes Peak, known as "America's Mountain". The round trip takes approximately 3.5 hours and covers 9 miles to the summit at an elevation of 14,115 feet. The company presents itself as the world's highest cog railway and a national icon.

A journey with history since 1891

The railway has been climbing Pikes Peak since 1891. Its first passenger train reached the summit in June of that year, and the company claims the title of the world's highest cog railway. The company is part of the heritage of the Western United States and is described as one of the country's most unique experiences.

The project's origins date back to the late 1880s, when tourists rode mules to the top of Pikes Peak. Zalmon Simmons, founder of the company that would become Simmons Beautyrest Mattress Company, envisioned a more comfortable and civilized trip to the summit. In 1889, construction of the Pikes Peak Cog Railway began, with 150 men transporting rails, bridge iron, and tools by wheelbarrow and mule.

The experience on board and at the summit

The journey combines mountain scenery and wildlife spotting. The company allows combining the train ascent with a hike down or a bike ride. At the summit, travelers find 360-degree views of the Pikes Peak region, from the eastern plains to the Continental Divide and the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the west. On clear days, the historic mining camp of Cripple Creek and the skyscrapers of downtown Denver can be seen. The summit features a new Summit Complex and a visitor center.

The area is home to bristlecone pines, some of which are estimated to be over 2,000 years old, making them one of the longest-living organisms on Earth.

Amenities at Manitou Depot and surroundings

The company provides information about parking, a gift shop, food and drink at the Manitou Depot, as well as about historic Manitou Springs. The website includes sections dedicated to the route, maps, hiking, biking, FAQs, and a photo gallery. Tickets are sold through the purchase page, where rates, schedules, and available departure dates are listed.

The company is part of The Broadmoor group, which includes other leisure and lodging offerings: Seven Falls, Soaring Adventure, Wilderness Experiences, Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, and Fly Fishing Camp.

Year-round operation

The railway operates seven days a week, with regular daily departures. The published schedule is Monday to Sunday from 08:00 to 17:00. The company recommends purchasing tickets in advance to secure a spot on one of the daily departures.

Location and contact

515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, United States · Phone: +17196855401 · Email: info@cograilway.com · Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 08:00-17:00