Denver: Pikes Peak COG Railway & Garden of the Gods Day Trip

Summary

Red rocks, mountain railways, and a sandwich with a view near Denver

You’ll wander among Garden of the Gods’ wild red rocks, share stories on the COG railway up Pikes Peak, snack on sandwiches with mountain air all around, and maybe laugh with new friends along the way. Expect cold fingers at 14,000 feet—and a feeling you’ll want to carry home.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping out at Garden of the Gods was how the air actually smelled different—like sun-warmed stone and pine needles. Our guide, Jamie, handed out sandwiches and pointed to these wild rock towers that looked like they’d been dropped there by accident. We sat on a boulder for lunch, crumbs in our laps, just watching climbers inching up those cliffs. I tried to guess how old the rocks were but gave up—Jamie said “millions” and shrugged like it was nothing.

Manitou Springs was next, with its little shops and this sweet mineral water that tasted...well, not exactly sweet. More like licking a penny? Li laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Mandarin to one of the shop owners—probably butchered it. The town felt relaxed, almost sleepy compared to Denver. We didn’t stay long but I liked how everyone waved or nodded as we passed.

The real event was riding the COG railway up Pikes Peak. You sit knee-to-knee with strangers (I got lucky—a short guy across from me), so you kind of have to talk or just stare out the window together. The train rattled and climbed through pine forests and suddenly there’s snow outside—even in June. At the summit, 14,115 feet up, my head felt light and my hands were cold but I couldn’t stop grinning at that view over Colorado Springs. Someone handed me a cookie—I think I said thank you twice without realizing it.

I still think about that moment on top, wind stinging my ears and everything below looking tiny and far away. It wasn’t perfect (my sandwich got squished in my bag), but honestly that made it better somehow—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak Tour

• Check in at 1701 Wynkoop Street
• Explore Garden of the Gods Park
• Visit Manitou Springs town
• Ride COG railway to Pikes Peak summit
• Tour ends at pickup location

Top questions

Where does this tour start?

The tour starts with pickup at Union Station in downtown Denver.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, locally sourced sandwiches and a cookie are included for lunch if booked more than 24 hours ahead.

How high is Pikes Peak on this tour?

Pikes Peak summit is 14,115 feet above sea level.

What should I bring for this tour?

A warm jacket or coat is recommended for the summit; sunglasses are also suggested.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children under 8 are not permitted unless you call for an exception.

Is there time to explore Manitou Springs?

If time allows during the itinerary, you’ll get to explore Manitou Springs briefly.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?

You should call ahead if you have dietary restrictions so they can accommodate your lunch order.

What happens if weather affects the COG railway?

If weather or other issues delay or cancel the train ride, a partial refund will be issued.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from downtown Denver’s Union Station, entry into Garden of the Gods Park for exploration and picnic lunch (with sandwiches and cookies), reserved tickets for the Pikes Peak COG Railway ride all the way to the summit—with water refills along the way if you bring your own bottle—and time in Manitou Springs if possible before returning to Denver in the evening.