Pikes Peak COG Railway & Garden of Gods Tour
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are two of the most famous attractions in Colorado, and we’ve packed them into a single tour. You get to explore the giant red rock formations in this National Natural Landmark during your picnic lunch before you ride the Cog Railway to the highest summit in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains at 14,115 feet.
Be prepared for communal, conversational seating (meaning opposing rows face each other, typical of train travel). For taller guests, that means you may be knocking knees a bit. To ride comfortably, we recommend that you strategically sit across from a short person. You're certainly not required to chat with the people across from you, even if you came together. But who knows! You might make a friend and have some laughs or a fun "small world" moment. We love those!
Available options
Pikes Peak COG Railway & Garden of Gods Tour - Lunch Included
What's included
Locally Sourced Sandwiches & Cookie. Call local operator IF you have dietary restirctions
Pickup in Denver from the Union Station in downtown
Water Refill - Bring Reusable Bottle
COG Railway Reservation and Tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide here to check in for your tour. 1701 Wynkoop Street by Large American Flagpole
2
Stop 2
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the famous Garden of the Gods Park.
3
Time permitting we get to explore Manitou Springs. Charming town with shops and treats.
4
Stop 4
Take a ride up the iconic COG railway to the summit of one of America's tallest and most famous mountains.
5
Tour Ends at Pickup Location
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
166 reviews
5★
145
4★
12
3★
5
2★
4
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
187 reviews
5★
159
4★
17
3★
6
2★
0
1★
5
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Sunglasses recommended!
Cancellations must be made at least 3 days prior to receive a full refund. Please call to make cancellation requests and amendments. Due to the ticketing process with the train, we must strictly adhere to this time constraint.
This tour departs from the city of Denver NOT from Colorado Springs.
Our friends at the COG railway reserve the right to delay or adjust train itineraries as needed due to inclemate weather, debris on the tracks, or mechanical issues. If an issue does arise, a partial refund will be issued to participants.
Children under the age of 8 ARE NOT permitted on this tour. Call Operator for exceptions.
Guests who will be using an assistive device such as a scooter or walker, please call our office to ensure our vehicle has accommodating space.
It will be significantly cooler on the summit of Pikes Peak than at our other stops. Please bring along a nice jacket or coat with you for the train ride to the summit.
We recommend to book directly with tour operator for more convenient cancellation policies.
Lunch Included - Please call local operator if you have dietary restrictions.
Lunch Policy for Late Bookings Please note that sandwich orders are placed 24 hours in advance of each tour. Reservations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not include lunch. Guests booking last-minute are encouraged to bring their own lunch or plan to purchase food during the tour, if time and location allow.
Not recommended for travelers with cardiovascular issues (including asthma)
Meeting point
We will meet our groups at the base of the American flagpole on the south side of the train station. The flagpole is at the pedestrian crosswalk intersection at 17th and Wynkoop St.
Important notes
Present your reservation ticket to your guide upon arriving at the check-in location.
Guests who will be using an assistive device such as a scooter or walker, please call our office at 720-583-0654 to ensure our vehicle has accommodating space.
About Denver
Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, and thriving arts scene, Denver offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city's high altitude and sunny climate make it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.
Top Attractions
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a unique outdoor concert venue nestled in stunning red rock formations. It's a must-visit for music lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Nature/Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free to enter the park, concert ticket prices vary
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free for Denver residents, $13-$20 for non-residents
Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a diverse collection of plants and beautiful landscapes.
Nature
1-2 hours
$9.50-$12.50
Union Station
Union Station is a historic landmark and transportation hub in downtown Denver. It features beautiful architecture, dining, shopping, and a bustling public space.
Architecture/Transportation Hub
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city, featuring over 4,000 animals and a commitment to conservation and education.
Zoo
2-4 hours
$21-$26
Must-Try Local Dishes
Green Chile
A spicy sauce made from green chiles, often served over burritos, enchiladas, or other Mexican dishes. Denver's green chile is a regional specialty and a must-try for visitors.
Main Dish
Contains dairy (cheese) and can be made vegetarian or vegan
Bison
Bison is a lean, flavorful meat that is often served as steaks, burgers, or in stews. Denver is known for its bison dishes, which are a unique and delicious local specialty.
Main Dish
High in protein and low in fat, can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions
Rocky Mountain Oysters
A regional delicacy made from deep-fried bull testicles, often served with a side of sauce. This dish is a unique and adventurous option for visitors looking to try something new.
Appetizer
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Palizzi's Famous Hot Chicken Sandwich
A spicy chicken sandwich that has become a local favorite. The sandwich is made with crispy fried chicken, spicy sauce, and served on a toasted bun with lettuce and pickles.
Main Dish
Contains gluten and can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Whitewater rafting
Skiing and snowboarding
Spa treatments
Yoga classes
Picnicking in the park
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Denver, offering warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this time.
18-32°C
64-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Denver is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any city, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
Getting there
By air
- Denver International Airport • 25 miles (40 km) from city center
By train
Denver Union Station
By bus
Denver Bus Center
Getting around
Public transport
The RTD Light Rail system is efficient and covers most of the city and nearby suburbs. It includes the A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H lines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
LoDo (Lower Downtown)
RiNo (River North Art District)
Capitol Hill
Highlands
LoHi (Lower Highlands)
Day trips
Rocky Mountain National Park
75 miles (120 km) from Denver • Full day or overnight
Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning mountain scenery, wildlife viewing, and numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
Boulder
25 miles (40 km) from Denver • Half day or full day
Boulder is a charming college town located at the foot of the Flatirons, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and diverse dining options.
Golden
15 miles (24 km) from Denver • Half day or full day
Golden is a historic town located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, historical attractions, and local breweries.
Festivals
Great American Beer Festival • Late September
Denver Arts Week • Early November
National Western Stock Show • Mid-January
Pro tips
- Visit the Denver Union Station for a unique and historic experience, including dining, shopping, and public events
- Explore the city's vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, galleries, and cultural festivals
- Take advantage of the city's numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby Rocky Mountains
- Try local specialties, such as green chile, bison, and craft beer
- Be mindful of the city's high altitude and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy on your first day
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
