Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Exploring the Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado Springs and want to experience one of the state’s most celebrated natural landmarks, the Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour offers a flexible way to do so. For $15.29 per group (up to four people), you get a narrated journey that takes you from the foothills all the way to the summit of America’s Mountain, with stops that cover breathtaking vistas, reservoirs, and historic sites. The tour lasts around 1 to 2 hours, making it an accessible addition to a day of sightseeing.

What we particularly like about this experience is how easy it is to follow without a guide physically present—just download the app, connect your device, and enjoy the ride. The engaging storytelling is tailored to make the drive informative and fun, especially if you’re interested in local history, geology, and Colorado’s pioneering spirit. Another highlight is that the tour is price-per-vehicle, so your entire group can listen together—making it a very budget-friendly option compared to guided tours or entrance tickets.

However, it’s important to note that this tour does not include park entry fees or tickets to attractions along the route. So, if you’re hoping for an all-inclusive experience, you’ll need to plan for those costs separately. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, self-paced adventure, and who enjoy learning as they go—perfect for those with a curiosity for the mountain’s stories and scenery.

Key Points

Flexible self-guided experience perfect for groups up to four.
Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Offline maps and narration work without cell service, ideal for remote mountain drives.
Multiple stops provide scenic views, reservoirs, and historic insights.
Easy to use—download once, enjoy for a year.
Not inclusive of park entry fees, so be prepared for additional costs if you plan to enter the park.

The Details of the Pikes Peak Self-Guided Audio Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive route that covers several notable stops along the historic Pikes Peak Highway. It’s designed to give you a sense of discovery—without the pressure of a guided group. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each stop, and how they contribute to the full experience.

Starting Point: 5099 Pikes Peak Hwy in Cascade

You’ll begin your journey at the designated starting point, ready to ascend. The audio app guides you from here, with stories and instructions that are easy to follow while you drive. Remember, no one will meet you at the start—this is a self-guided adventure, giving you full control over your timing.

Stop 1: Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

The highlight of the tour is, of course, reaching the summit at 14,115 feet. We love the way the narration captures the mountain’s significance in Colorado’s lore—it’s a symbol of perseverance and natural beauty. While admission isn’t included, the drive itself offers plenty of opportunities for fantastic panoramic views. Expect to spend around 15 minutes here, soaking in the mountain vistas and taking photos.

Stop 2: Cascade Observation Site

Since 1890, travelers have paused here to admire the scenery. Historically, it was part of the cog railway line, giving it a charming backdrop of transportation innovation from the late 19th century. It’s a quick 10-minute stop that offers a free but scenic look at the landscape, with the added bonus of a bit of local history.

Stop 3: Crystal Creek Reservoir

This reservoir plays a crucial role in supplying drinking water for Colorado Springs, which makes it a refreshing stop to appreciate both nature and infrastructure. It’s a 10-minute visit, and you can enjoy the serene water views while understanding the human effort behind Colorado’s water systems.

Stop 4: North Catamount Reservoir

A bit further along, the North Catamount Reservoir is one of three major reservoirs that serve the region. The stop provides a moment to enjoy nature’s calmness and take in the mountain scenery. It’s another 10-minute segment, perfect for photos and reflection.

Stop 5: Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Despite its name, this isn’t quite halfway up the mountain, but it’s a handy spot for a quick break. The railway’s history is woven into the narration, giving you insight into how visitors have historically accessed Pikes Peak. It’s a no-cost stop, just a quick 10-minute pause.

Stop 6: Glen Cove – PPIHC

This midpoint marker is a longstanding stop for travelers, with the Glen Cove Visitor Center offering a bit of a rest and a chance to stretch your legs. At just over the halfway point, it’s a good time to assess how far you’ve come and prepare for the climb ahead. It’s not included in the ticket price, but you might find it a helpful reference point.

Stops 7 & 8: Devil’s Playground & Bottomless Pit

Here, you encounter some of the most arid and rugged landscapes along the route. Devil’s Playground is known for lightning storms, which lend the terrain a dramatic, almost otherworldly quality. The Bottomless Pit is a curious feature, with the myth of it being truly bottomless, though scientists confirm it isn’t. These stops, each about 10 minutes, give a glimpse into the raw geology of Pikes Peak.

Final Stop: Barr Trail

This historic trail dates back to the gold rush era and offers a glimpse into the pioneering routes that once brought prospectors and explorers up the mountain. It’s a 15-minute stop that appeals to hikers and history buffs alike, providing context for the rugged paths that lead to the summit.

What the Tour Offers and Why it Matters

The storytelling aspect is a real plus. It’s not just about the scenery—though you’ll love the sweeping mountain vistas—but also about understanding the history, geology, and engineering marvels associated with Pikes Peak. The narration is designed to be engaging, with a voice that makes the experience feel personal—something appreciated in the reviews.

Another critical feature is the offline compatibility. Once downloaded, the map and stories work smoothly, even in remote mountain areas where cell service can be spotty. If you’re planning to drive without constant connectivity, this is a huge advantage.

The value for the price is solid, especially considering you can use the tour for up to a year. If you plan to return or want to extend your visit over multiple days, this long-term usability makes it a smart choice.

However, some travelers have expressed frustration about the lack of included park entry tickets. One reviewer noted, “The ticket price included a car load of friends for admission into the park for $16.99… At the entrance…we were required to pay again.” Be sure to budget for the additional entrance fee if you’re planning to go into the park itself.

Practical Tips for Your Drive

• Start early or late: The drive can get crowded midday, especially on weekends.
• Download and test the app beforehand to avoid surprises.
• Connect your phone to your car’s stereo for easier listening.
• Bring snacks and water since some stops are remote and no food services are available along the route.
• Be aware of weather—thunderstorms can be common at Devil’s Playground, and lightning safety is critical.
• Plan for additional park fees if you want to access certain attractions or the summit’s facilities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This self-guided audio tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate flexibility. It’s particularly suited for families, groups, or couples who want to learn about Pikes Peak’s history while enjoying the scenery at their own pace. It’s also a great option for those on a budget, since your group can listen together, and there are no guide fees.

If you’re someone who enjoys a personalized experience and doesn’t mind doing a little planning, this tour offers a cost-effective, educational, and scenic way to conquer Pikes Peak. However, if you’re looking for a guided experience that includes park entry and a more curated narrative, this may not be the best fit.

FAQ

Does the tour include park entrance tickets?
No, it does not. You’ll need to purchase those separately at the entrance.

Can I use this tour multiple times?
Yes. Once purchased, you can use the tour app for up to one year, making it perfect for multiple visits.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a self-guided drive, so you can tailor stops and timing to suit children’s pace and interest.

Do I need a GPS or special device?
The app uses your smartphone’s GPS to guide you, so just ensure your device has a working GPS function and enough storage space for downloads.

Will I need WiFi during the drive?
No. You should download the tour before your trip while connected to WiFi or cellular data; after that, it works offline.

Are there any included attractions or stops?
No, the tour covers the route and stops but does not include entrance fees or tickets to attractions.

How long does the drive typically take?
Most travelers spend about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long they linger at each stop.

Is there support if I have technical issues?
Yes, support is available if you experience audio problems or app issues.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of informative storytelling, flexibility, and cost efficiency make it a compelling choice for independent travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour offers an accessible way to explore one of Colorado’s most renowned landmarks. It’s excellent for those who enjoy a self-paced, educational experience set against stunning mountain scenery. While it doesn’t include park entrance fees or full guided assistance, its value and convenience make it a practical choice for many travelers.

If you’re comfortable managing the logistics of your trip and eager for a personalized, flexible adventure filled with stories about Colorado’s natural and human history, this tour hits the right notes. Just be prepared to handle the additional costs of park entry and plan your timing to avoid peak crowds. With great views, interesting stories, and the freedom to explore at your leisure, this tour can be a memorable part of your Colorado Springs visit.