Pike's Peak or Bust

Our weather couldn't be more beautiful for a cog train ride up to one of Colorado's many 14,000 plus foot elevation mountains.

Our chariot approaches.

Slowly we chugged up the mountain- side, at times a 25 degree ascent.  The scenery was gorgeous.  The aspens so golden.

Looking back over my shoulder at Colorado Springs in the distance.

Pike's Peak in the distance.

Kansas on the very far horizon

Almost to the summit.

Arrival.  90 minutes up, 30 minutes oxygen deprevation while trying to keep from falling on your face eating a delicious, greasy donut.  Then off we go again for the 60 minute descent.

Very cold too up there, plus wind factor. Glad I had my gloves and muffs with me.

Train barricade, which we're all grateful was there.  2000 foot straight drop.

Katherine Lee Bates was an American songwriter.  She authored the words to "America the Beautiful. "  This monument honors her inspiration while visiting Pike's Peak  and writing "America the Beautiful ".

I think Bill is cold.

A picture I never could have made of our last 1000 foot climb to the summit.

More beautiful scenery on the way down.

And back to Manitoba Springs, ending an amazing experience.  Inhale...ahhh.

But wait, our exploring isn't over.  We headed to nearby Garden of the Gods, which is a registered National Natural Landmark.

Reminded me so much of Sedona and Utah.

That was a very full day and we raced off to Costco for a hotdog, pizza, or salad.  We were starving and awed by all we'd seen.  America is truly beautiful.

Come visit again.

Susan