The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway - Manitou Springs, Colorado

Eve B.

Unfortunately, due to the weather, we couldn't make it to the top of Pikes Peak.

We did travel over 12,000 ft to above the tree line.

As we didn't get to the top, 30% of the ticket price was refunded. You also had the option for a full refund if you decided not to go. We were notified via text a few hours beforehand of our options.

It was still beautiful, and I'm glad we went! We went on a Sunday and it was still crowded. We sat on the 3 seat side, which seemed to have a better view. Once we got where we had to stop, going down, we went backward... which, yes, freaked me out a bit. The guide (? I guess that's what he's called) assured us it was perfectly safe: we would be going slow, and the train had good brakes.

Nice, SMALL, gift shop. Clean bathrooms. Parking was $20 (yikes!) There were parking lots in town where you could take a (free) bus up to the train. (One parking lot was full)

Erica S.

It was fun and informative, saw some interesting things, but missed other things that were supposedly there like the markers for the couple, and the donkey.

It gets really cold as you get closer to the alpine zone, so wear layers! Bring gloves, and something for your head. Being from CO (around 5000ft), we still got some mild altitude sickness as we got closer to the summit, so drink plenty of water. Think the only high altitude place I've been was the Alpine Visitor Center at RMNP and I was fine there and that 11,796 vs 14,115 here on Pike's Peak. But would also make stops along the way (so I had time to adjust) vs a continual accent.

The time at the summit is way shorter than you think! We came mostly for the doughnuts, and really only had enough time for it, but would have been nice to have time to check out the other things at the visitor center and the stuff outside. I will have to go back some time via private vehicle to check everything else out.

The website suggests parking at some other parking lots in Manitou Springs and take the free shuttle as an alternative to the parking lot right in front of their station. So we parked at the Hiawatha parking lot since it had more spots and a little bit cheaper. Since we got to the lot at 11:30am, we wandered the shops along the shuttle route. We waited at the Canyon Ave/Town Clock stop at 12:34pm, but the shuttle did not arrive at this specific stop until 1:03pm. The ride was estimated to be 10 mins from that stop. Our cog train was at 1:20pm, so we barely made it on time. So maybe start taking the shuttle an hour early instead, though the shuttle supposedly every 20 mins?

C. N.

It is such a fun experience! The train ride offers incredible views, and the conductor shares lots of interesting and detailed information along the way.

Parking is super easy to access (though it’s an extra cost), and the famous donuts at the peak are absolutely worth it—they’re so good!

I’d recommend going in the summer to avoid bad weather or snow at the top, and if you can, grab a seat on the left side of the train for the best views.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Pikes Peak and definitely worth checking out!

Chris W.

Absolutely loved this! My family and I went the week of Thanksgiving. The ride itself was smooth and fun. The seating was a bit crowded though. You literally sit right across from other people like 2-3 feet across from one another. So on one side of the train there are 3 seats and the other side has 2 seats. In my opinion the 3 seat side gives you a better view of waterfalls and other cool things to see. The seating itself is small so if you are a bigger person the seats are kind of small. Only downside for us was we were not able to go to the summit due to the weather. Visibility was almost zero once we got to 11,500ft. They did stop for about 15 minutes at the highest point we could go so we could take videos and pictures. Overall we loved it. Would’ve been cool to go all the way to the top though. They did refund 50% of our ticket prices since we were unable to go to the peak.

alina Z.

Such a fun experience. I went with my family (all grown adults) and we had an amazing time. Due to weather we couldn’t summit but still worth it for the views and the conductor’s entertainment. They give you an option of 30% discount or rescheduling if this happens. The views are amazing. Make sure to bring water to help with the high altitude. They have a water refill station, restrooms, and a gift shop. The staff were extremely friendly and really made the experience top notch.

Michelle T.

Great experience! Parking is $20 best to get there early and find a street space if you don't want to pay that. Definitely pick the blue option, you can open the windows, orange does not have windows you can open. Also sit on the 3 seat side much better views on that side!

Nancy C.

It’s such a great fun experience!
The tour guide kept the travelling entertained, as it is a long drive up (I think 1 hour).
The scenery was espectacular!!!! Once you are at the top, you will be able to snap amazing photographs!!!
Bring lots of water, the altitude will make you feel dizzy, tired and very thirsty! Also BRING A JACKET, the temperature drops tremendously once you are at the top.

Mitch W.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers breathtaking views and a unique way to experience Pikes Peak. The train ride itself is smooth, and the scenery along the way is absolutely stunning definitely a memorable experience.

However, the staff is extremely strict and punctual, which is both a blessing and a curse. While I appreciate the timeliness, I witnessed staff repeatedly yelling at passengers for being late or not following instructions. It created a stressful atmosphere that took away from the enjoyment of the trip.

If you’re considering this experience, make sure to be on time and follow all the rules to avoid any awkward interactions. The ride and views are worth it, but the rigidity of the staff can be a bit much.