Preparations are in full swing on Pikes Peak as the area gears up for the busy season beginning in May. With visitor numbers increasing substantially, the management is implementing new strategies and services to accommodate the growing interest.
In 2023, Pikes Peak America’s Mountain experienced a significant surge in visitation, with approximately 30,000 additional guests compared to the previous year, reaching nearly 463,000 visitors. Skler Rorabaugh, the manager of Pike Peak America’s Mountain, attributed this increase to both the regional growth and the burgeoning popularity of the landmark known as “America’s Mountain.” Anticipating further increases, Rorabaugh and his team are preparing for potentially record-breaking numbers.
To address the rising demand, a new travel option is being introduced for the 2024 summer season, which could push the annual visitor count beyond half a million. This initiative responds to the feedback from numerous visitors who express concerns about navigating the mountain’s challenging switchbacks above the timberline. Many visitors have approached the staff, anxious about the drive, and inquiring about alternative transportation options.
This season, a solution has been offered in the form of a new $30 package deal that encompasses both the entrance fee and a shuttle service up the mountain. Rorabaugh explains, “Visitors can now drive comfortably up to mile seven, leave their cars in a designated area, and board a shuttle that will take them directly to the summit. This makes the visit more accessible and less daunting for those who are hesitant about the drive.”
Additionally, the North Slope Recreation Area at the base of Pikes Peak is set to open on May 1 for the season. This year, besides the $5 daily permit, visitors will need to purchase a $1 parking pass due to limited availability of parking spaces caused by ongoing construction work in the area.
For more information on visiting hours, pricing, and reservations at Pikes Peak, potential visitors are encouraged to seek further details online, where they can plan their visit and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
A shuttle service is now available, allowing visitors to conveniently reach the summit without driving the entire way. This new addition aims to offer a more accessible and comfortable experience for those who may be hesitant about the drive. Furthermore, the North Slope Recreation Area, located at the base of Pikes Peak, will open on May 1 for the season. Please note that due to ongoing construction work, parking space availability is limited, and visitors will need to purchase a $1 parking pass in addition to the $5 daily permit. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit, interested individuals are advised to consult the official website for detailed information regarding visiting hours, pricing, and reservations at Pikes Peak.