Road of the Month: Pikes Peak

The road up to the summit of Pikes Peak is legendary among those in the car community, thanks to the hill climb held there every summer.  Just this June, 60 year old “Monster” Tajima finally smashed the 10 minute barrier in the race to the top.  However, despite this road being spotlighted every summer, Pikes Peak still needs more attention.  Why?  Because there must be millions of car enthusiasts out there who still think of it as just another road.  They’re wrong, just like I was wrong.  This is a road that has to be driven to be fully appreciated.  This is a road that has to be on every car nut’s bucket list.  HAS TO BE!  Just watch the video below if you’d like proof.

Before we get to the reasons why, let’s start out with the bad.  If you can only come during winter, you should reconsider, because the road can close at any time due to inclement weather.  If you’re looking for a long, high-speed drive with no traffic and no patrols, Pikes Peak International Raceway would suit you better.  If you’re low on cash, check out Garden of the Gods instead – Pikes Peak Road is a toll road with steep prices ($12 a person, $40 per carload up to 5 passengers).  Finally, if your vehicle has ailing brakes, a not-so-great cooling system, or is really low on power – rent a car instead.  You’ll thank your lucky stars later.  Also note that although some of the pictures show dirt roads – the road to the summit has been completely paved as of 2012.

But if you’re going in good weather, don’t mind slowing down in exchange for some beautiful scenery, have a few bucks to spare, and a good vehicle – you’re in for a real treat.  Start off at King’s Chef Diner for a quick breakfast (note: they open at 7am).   It is conveniently located right off the freeway, near the off-ramp to Highway 24 off-ramp that will take you up to the Pikes Peak entrance.  The drive up to the toll entrance is nothing to sneeze at – you’ll have to remember to watch for cross traffic and keep speed up the slope, while gazing at the gorgeous mountain in front of you.

Depending on what time you arrive at the toll entrance, you may have to wait in lengthy lines to pay – hence, I suggest you go early.  Once past the toll gates, it will be a leisurely drive up to Crystal Creek Reservoir.  There is a visitor center just on the other side of the reservoir, but I recommend you continue on unless there’s a need to use the bathroom.  Before you make your choice, note that you should be drinking water fairly frequently from here on out.  It will help you avoid altitude sickness.  The other reason I mention the visitor center is because the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb starts just a mile ahead.  This is where the road starts to twist and climb, all the way up to Glen Cove.

Once past Glen Cove, you’ll really start to feel the effects of the crazy road combined with the thin air.  Steep stretches and tight turns with no guard rails will test your resolve, and many drivers slow to a crawl for sections where the sun is in their eyes.  The scenery will change dramatically as you climb above the tree line, with improved views of the city below.  You would be well advised to pull over and take some pictures as often as possible – the grades will literally boil your vehicles fluids if you don’t give it a chance to cool off.  Remember, dummy gauges are common in cars today, so they can’t be trusted – my aftermarket transmission temperature gauge was pegged most of the way past Glen Cove without any warnings from the stock dash, and even the engine coolant hit record highs (consistent 212-220F in the final 15 minutes) without the gauge moving at all.

There are plaques, signs, a gift shop, and other tourist friendly items at the summit.  Take your time and browse around – there are some amazing views and photo opportunities.  When you’ve had your fill and start heading back down the mountain, remember to follow all the posted signs.  They are there for a reason!  I know that on our van, even running in first gear with the AC compressor on, there was insufficient engine braking.  As a result, when we finally got down to the Glen Cove brake temperature checkpoint, my front brakes failed miserably.  Thus, we had to pull over and look around at the visitor center there for a little while.

If you have extra time after coming down the mountain, consider visiting Garden of the Gods or the US Air Force Academy.  Both are stunningly beautiful beyond words.  Or you could just head over to Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q for some lunch!