|
John Cletheroe's
USA and Canada Holiday Hints |
This road is about nineteen miles long. It is paved for the first seven miles and the paved section is reported as being in excellent shape (as at summer 1999). The latter half is gravel except for one short stretch of less than a mile. The gravel section is wide, mostly smooth, and generally a good road suitable for normal cars. This road does not have guardrails.
The summit of Pikes Peak is at 14,110 ft and this road almost reaches this height, where you may well experience the effects of altitude including dizziness.
This road is less steep than the Mount Evans Byway and does not quite reach the same altitude.
This road is normally open from May to October, depending on snowfall.
The road passes through the Pike National Forest.
I travelled the road in June of 2009. At the beginning it was around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and on the summit it was around 37 degrees Fahrenheit. The fee is still $10 per adult. I'm not sure on a child fee. On the way up the road changes from pavement to dirt quite a bit, with some breathtaking views and no guard rails. It's quite a ride. At the summit there is a gift shop and a food court (although the food is really pricy). When I went the summit still had lots of snow to enjoy. On the way down it is recommended you stay in low gear, when you're almost to the end on the way down there is a mandatory brake check. One way up the mountain is 19 miles so it's a fun and exciting ride for the whole family.
Highest Roads In North America
Historic Trails, Named Roads, etc
Home | States/Provinces | Subjects
Most recently modified 9-Jul-09