Pikes Peak. The first 14er to be highlighted for our 14ers print series. It’s the only mountain you can snag a donut from on the tippy top. Whether you hiked your butt up there or drove your family minivan, we think you deserve one. Looking for vacay inspo? Curious to know more about our precious Pikes Peak? Keep reading for some Pikes Peak history and other cool places in Colorado to check out.
Pikes Peak History
Pikes Peak was originally named Tavá Mountain, or “Sun Mountain” by the Ute people. They saw the way the 14,115-ft summit was the first to be shone upon by the sun and named it accordingly. She’s beauty. She’s grace. She’s our favorite “Mountain of the Sun.”
Spanish explorers also discovered the peak and decided the name “El Capitan” was perfect for this towering mountain. “El Capitan” means “The Leader” – with Pikes being the highest point in the southern Front Range of the Rocky mountains, it makes sense she’s got that leadership energy!
Some dude named Zebulon Pike then tried to climb it but failed due to harsh weather conditions. His writings about the peak inspired the Pikes Peak gold rush which was coined with the slogan “Pikes Peak or bust!” – guess all the homies were really hoping to strike it rich.
Then, in 1890, “Pikes Highest Peak” was shortened to “Pikes Peak” by the U.S Board on Geographic Names. Our girl Pikes has gone through a hell of a lot of name changes!
The Train to Pikes Peak
Did you know you can take a super cool train to the top of Pikes? Located in Manitou Springs, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes your butt right to the very top! This 3.5 hour round trip has been going since 1891. Pretty sick, huh? You’re getting mountain views and a historical journey all in one! And, if you’re not feeling the train route, you can drive up to the top yourself using the Pikes Peak paved highway. No matter which route you take, you’ll get to see some beautiful wildlife, trees that date up to 2,000 years old, and breathe in some really fresh air. Don’t forget to hydrate and keep altitude sickness at bay!
Manitou Springs
After you ascend Pikes Peak by train, we’re sure you’ll be hungry for a bite to eat or maybe some cool rocks to take home with you. Manitou Springs has many restaurants and little shops to check out! If you’re wanting to get a killer workout, you can also check out the Manitou Springs incline hike and climb up 2,768 steps.
Pikes Peak Wall Art
Many of you have some sweet memories connected to Pikes. Could be the first mountain you ever saw, the first you summited, the mountain photobombing your Colorado family vacation photos. What better way to commemorate those times than with some Pikes Peak living room art?
You can shop Pikes Peak through Caroline Clark’s eyes at these links!
