How long does it take to drive up Pike's Peak?
 

I have been up Pike's Peak, but never paid attention to how long it took. Approximately how long will it take to drive up? We like to stop and enjoy the scenery at the overlook areas. I am trying to incorporate Pike's Peak into our day driving from Lamar to Leadville - we don't mind long days in the car. Thanks!

Since it depends how fast you drive and how many stops you make, your guess is as good as mine.

Ok, I am just looking for an estimate here. 3 hours? 6 hours? That's why I said "approximately".

beckers2482,

If you're going up Pikes Peak Highway on a summer weekend, expect a steady string of cars for the entire 17 mile trip. Add to this the fact that some of it's paved, some graded dirt and I would allow about 2 1/2 hours to get to the top (less during the week). By the way, the steepest stretch--around tree line--angles up at 10-1/2 percent and no hiking is allowed along the roadway.

It's a good idea to get to the top before noon--especially during summer, when thunderheads pile up on the summit. People pile up, too, particularly on the toll road.

One last thing: as you probably remember, be prepared for any weather.

Have fun!

AL ((d))

Thanks AL - that's precisely what I needed to know!

My pleasure.

By the way, I know you live in the area but where? Breck?

Just curious.

AL ((d))

About 10 minutes. ;) That's for the fastest vehicles during the hillclimb competition.

Awesome, rkkwan. I will see what I can do. :)

AL - I wish. I live in Missouri. :)

Give it a couple of hours, and time for the rest stop. I'm in good health and young, but had trouble breathing at the top and got altitude sickness. Very cold and windy in June when I was there. Was great trip though. Cog rail to top is a good option to driving.

I would just go straight thru to the Summit which should take at least an hour. When we were there, we were delayed 45 minutes b/c the snow plows & de-icers had to go first -- IN AUGUST!!!!!

you should look into the cog train to the summit. it's just over 1 1/2 hours on the train one way, and so worth it. driving will be stressful i imagine. and, there is at least a 30 degree difference between the bottom and the top. dress appropriatly in layers! (i learned the hardway)