"Pikes Peak or Bust" was talked about amongst the 100,000 gold rushers in 1859 at the height of the Gold Rush through what is now Colorado.
Back when US presidents gave missions like "Go explore the territories!" - Thomas Jefferson asked Zebulon Pike to explore the area in the fall of 1806. They attempted to summit the mountain - but the mission failed as the Rocky Mountains get rather cold at high elevations.
Fast forward to 1893, and the famous "America the Beautiful" song was inspired after the writer, Katharine Lee Bates, was atop the mountain for a half hour. Can you guess which lyric?
Maybe this is why Pikes Peak is also referred to as "America's Mountain"? Although there are 53 peaks above 14,000 feet in Colorado (96 in the US) - Pikes Peak remains one of the most famous. Access to the summit is my guess as to why - you can drive a car, ride a bike, take a hike, or take a guided tour. (Bikers + hikers beware - and be prepared! The elevation gain and drastic weather changes during the several hours it will take you needs to seriously be considered.) Not up to making it to the top? There are several attractions in Colorado Springs too!
Yes - you can drive to the summit - but do not drive fast. Leave that to the competitors of the "Race to the clouds". The official name of the race is "Pikes Peak International Hill Climb". and takes place in June, when there should be no snow or ice. The race started in 1916, is 12.42 miles long and has 156 turns - and gates open at 2:30am for spectators.
@abeardedshooter said: "For me it was an opportunity to see something bigger than myself. The beauty this world gives us are memories that I'll always have with me." He took this photo from "Garden of the Gods" (Don't worry - that gets it's whole blog!)
WINTER - Sneak a peak from afar - road closes based on weather.
SPRING - Search for wildflowers.
SUMMER - Hike a 14er, or drive and bring lunch!
FALL - Some say its the best time of year to visit - giving "Colorful Colorado" its name!
