Colorado is a beautiful state, with gorgeous mountain views and sunsets that linger in your memory for years. When exploring the great outdoors, why not spend a few days taking in the sites along the most beautiful stretches of road found in the state?
Read on to learn our top 4 favorite drives in the Pikes Peak region for Colorado Springs road trip ideas, or your day away (if you’re lucky enough to live in the Springs).
1. Pikes Peak Scenic Highway
Pikes Peak is a must-see when visiting Colorado. This peak towers 14,115 feet above sea level, and it boasts a paved road from the base to the summit. The 19 mile road snakes up nearly 7,000 feet in elevation, with panoramic views at every turn.
You can drive most of the way up along Pikes Peak Highway, where you’ll find plenty of spots to turn off and enjoy the scenery. You’ll encounter alpine lakes, pine trees, and wildlife like mountain goats and marmots.
Once you’re close to the peak, you need to park and take a shuttle the rest of the way up. The shuttle helps to keep the summit itself less crowded. Plus, you get an educational guided tour for the last leg of the journey.
The top of Pikes Peak is one of the best spots for pictures in the entire state. And don’t miss the Summit House, where you can try one of their famous donuts and pick up a souvenir.
2. Gold Belt Scenic Byway
Take a step back into Colorado’s gold rush days along the Gold Belt Scenic Byway. Located one hour from Colorado Springs, the Gold Belt Scenic Byway snakes through mining towns where tens of thousands of adventurers tried to strike it rich in the late 1800s.
This route isn’t just one road, but multiple roads and byways that take you along historic railroads and long-ago stagecoach routes.
When exploring this area, don’t miss the Golden Loop Historic Parkway and Phantom Canyon Road. If you visit during the fall when the leaves are changing colors, you’ll be rewarded with views that resemble watercolor paintings.
3. Russell Tutt Scenic Highway
When visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, don’t miss the Russell Tutt Scenic Highway. The 1.4 mile drive takes you to the top of a mountain with sweeping views of Colorado Springs from the Will Rogers Shrine.
4. Skyline Drive
Less than one hour outside of Colorado Springs is Cañon City, one of the most popular destinations in Colorado for adventure lovers and families. Here you’ll find the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park as well as world-class whitewater rafting.
When you visit Cañon City, make a trip to Skyline Drive. This is one of few roads that skims the top of a high razorback ridge. The views are beautiful and the road itself is much like driving on a roller coaster.
If you plan to visit Cañon City, we invite you to stay with us at the Royal Gorge Cabins. Our family glamping tents combine luxury comfort with the perks of camping for an unforgettable experience.
