America’s Mountain is one of America’s most commercialized mountains and one of the most storied that calls to travelers near and far ー for attractions both rugged and sleek. All converge at the sleekest attraction: the state-of-the-art, 5-year-old Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center at the 14,115-foot mountaintop that inspired “America the Beautiful.”

But how to fully appreciate the beauty?

By railway

The new Summit Visitor Center opened in 2021, just in time for the new and improved Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The cog has been churning up Pikes Peak since 1891. But never has the ride been smoother, and never have riders been treated to such luxury within these spacious cars. 

By road

Many prefer to sit back and enjoy the view from the train, while many others prefer the thrill of driving and the chance to take in the mountain at their own pace. There are indeed plenty of scenic points to stop and see along the winding, 19-mile drive on Pikes Peak Highway.

By the shore

It’s not exactly “sea to shining sea,” but Pikes Peak’s smaller reservoirs shine no less. Off Pikes Peak Highway is North Slope Recreation Area, which encompasses North and South Catamount reservoirs. Then there’s the more remote, more adventurous South Slope Recreation Area, reached via a long, rough road from Victor. Permits booked in advance are required to fish or explore around those reservoirs, including the high-alpine Boehmer Reservoir, requiring a round-trip hike of nearly 10 miles.

By Barr Trail

It is the classic, most historic route up Pikes Peak ー the 13-mile trail out of Manitou Springs that Fred Barr built for his burro outfit. It is now used by countless hikers along with runners of a famed marathon. Barr Trail visits landmarks of Pikes Peak lore, including Barr Camp. That’s the halfway station, where caretakers continue a tradition of pancakes and spaghetti.

By Crags Trail

On the mountain’s backside in Teller County, this is considered a more efficient footpath than Barr Trail. Summit seekers connect Crags Trail to Devils Playground, a legendary area above treeline. Just as much, more casual day hikers enjoy Crags Trail on its own ー a venture showcasing Pikes Peak’s signature beauty, from stream-fed forests and meadows to granite outcrops boasting a stellar view.

By doughnut

The view is sweeter with a doughnut. Yes, however you get to the summit, you can’t go back down without the iconic treat from a passed-down recipe that accounts for the baking altitude. In the Summit Visitor Center, will it be powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar?