Cog Railway

There are a few ways to make it to the top of Pikes Peak — hiking or driving are the most popular — but perhaps the one most steeped in history is the Cog Railway. The train opened in 1891, and the 9-mile trip starts at 6,320 feet in Manitou Springs and tops out at the 14,115-foot summit of America’s Mountain.

The train runs year-round, but no matter when you go, there’s always a chance for snow so pack a coat (even in July). This is also one one of those “plan ahead” Colorado adventures. Reservations might book a few months out.