You and Pikes Peak: A Tale of Two Cities (and a Mountain)
Ever looked at a picture of Denver and thought, "That mountain looks awfully close, I bet I could just scoot over and grab a coffee at the summit"? Well, hold your metaphorical horses (or should we say burros?), because while Pikes Peak might look like your friendly neighborhood giant from Denver, there's a bit more to the story.
How Far Is Pikes Peak From Denver |
Not Quite Throwing Distance, But Definitely a Doable Day Trip
The answer you crave (and Google Maps confirms): Pikes Peak sits between 94 and 112 miles away from Denver, depending on the route you choose. That's not exactly a walk in the park (especially considering the whole "mountain" thing), but it's a perfectly achievable distance for a day trip packed with adventure.
Road Trip Ready: Conquering the Distance
Think of the drive as your warm-up act to the main event (conquering Pikes Peak, duh). Cruise down scenic highways, blast some epic road trip tunes (bonus points for Rocky Mountain-themed jams), and maybe even snag a selfie with a herd of prairie dogs (just don't get too close, they have a thing about personal space).
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
Pro Tip: Pack some snacks and drinks for the ride. Mountain air can be surprisingly invigorating (read: you'll get hungry).
But Wait, There's More! How to Get There in Style
Feeling fancy? Take a train or bus and soak up the views while someone else does the driving.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
Adventurous spirit tingling? There are even tours that combine a trip to Pikes Peak with exploring the wonders of the Garden of the Gods, a nearby natural rock formation wonderland.
Got a serious case of wanderlust (and a hefty wallet)? There's even a small airstrip near the summit, but be warned, those landing fees can be a doozy!
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
FAQs for the Discerning Pikes Peak Adventurer:
How to avoid crowds? Head to Pikes Peak early in the morning, especially during peak season (pun intended).
How to dress for the summit? Layers are your friend! Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so pack for sunshine, wind, and even a sprinkle of snow (especially during the shoulder seasons).
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
How to prepare for altitude sickness? Stay hydrated, take it slow, and be aware of the symptoms. If you start to feel unwell, descend to a lower elevation immediately.
How to capture the perfect Pikes Peak picture? Get creative! Find a unique angle, play with the lighting, and don't forget to include yourself (unless you're going for the "mysterious mountain" vibe).
How to make the most of your Pikes Peak adventure? Relax, take in the views, and create memories that will last a lifetime. After all, it's not just about the destination, it's about the journey (and the epic photo ops along the way).