For the first time in its more than 100 years of operation, the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway will stay open through December, offering visitors a rare glimpse of America's Mountain in winter.

Beginning November 4th, the world's highest cog train will make its trip to the summit at 12:00 P.M. daily, closing only on November 19 and 20, and for Thanksgiving Day. In December, the Cog will close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. However, there will be special holiday runs at 12:00 PM on Tuesday December 24 and December 31. Cost is $25.00 per person for adults and $13.50 for children ages 3 -11.

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway begins its route at the historic Manitou Springs Depot. The first few miles of track travel through a steep canyon filled with dense pines and gigantic boulders. As the train moves higher, the views become more spectacular. At approximately 11,500 feet the climb above timberline begins. During the final portion riders enjoy the sights that inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful"-the red rocks of Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs, and the vast expanse of the Great Plains. At the summit on a clear day visitors can see Denver, 60 miles to the north, the Sangre De Christo mountains, pushing south into New Mexico, the historic Cripple Creek Gold Camp, and the majestic mountains that form the Continental Divide.

The Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway was the inspiration of Zalmon Simmons, owner of a mattress company in Wisconsin. Mr. Simmons visited the region in the late 1800's and after making the trip to the summit of Pikes Peak by mule, decided there had to be a better way. In 1889, the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway Company was incorporated with Simmons as the backer and construction on the track began. The last spike was driven on October 22,1890. Since that time millions of visitors from around the world have traveled to the 14, 110' summit of Pikes Peak in comfort and style. Today's fully-enclosed railcars are manufactured in Switzerland and offer excellent views.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 719-685-5401.