Drive to the summit in an automobile by way of Pikes Peak Highway. It is a 19-mile road that is open year-round, depending on weather. The top portion is the site of an annual auto and motorcycle race on the summit.
Take a train ride to the top on the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway, which is a cog railway. Tourists board the train at Manitou Springs. Up to six trains a day run from May to September, and two a day run to the top throughout the rest of the year. Rates run between $16 and $32 per person. Group and one-way rates are also available.
Hike up the mountain on one of the hiking trails. One of the most popular is Barr Trail. Barr Trail is 12.6 miles long and rated "Difficult," so it is probably best for only seasoned hikers. There is a recreation site with picnic tables and an overnight cabin about halfway up. You must reserve the cabin up to a year in advance, however.
Turn the ascent of Pikes Peak into a competition by entering one of the annual races. The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Race is along the highway for automobiles and motorcycles. There is also the annual Pikes Peak Marathon for runners along the Barr Trail.
