Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs

Words could not express the beauty seen in the Garden of the Gods.  The rock formations and colors were unique and awe-inspiring.  There is a two-mile paved walkway meandering through the various rock formations.  Along the pathway, rock climbers scaling the uneven walls of the rocks could be seen, not a sport I am interested in taking up.  The next site, “The Twin Sisters”, which we were told was a must-see.  Hiking was the only way to get to this formation but well worth it.  At the top were two unison rock formations with a hole in the middle. It appeared as a window that frames Pikes’ Peak, giving us a glimpse of our next stop.

Speaking of Pikes Peak, that was the next stop on the agenda.  Pikes Peak is the highest summit of the front range of the Rocky Mountains.  The elevation is 14,115 and it’s a winding two-lane road to get to the top.  I must confess driving in our dually and seeing the edge from my window scared me to my core.  Not the most relaxing ride I have ever had.  The most remarkable thing was the few bicyclists trudging their way up that summit.  Kudos to them, because that is not an easy feat to accomplish.  This gives new meaning to the Tour de France.  Unfortunately, due to major construction at the peak, we were only allowed to go to mile 16 where we departed and had to take a shuttle to the top.  While waiting to get on a shuttle, the rain started, and then it began to snow.  Imagine seeing snow in July.  While the top had some fantastic views, it would have been better if there weren’t any bulldozers, forklifts, and fencing to block our views.  We were able to get some nice pictures by going over the jagged rocks and closer to the edge.  We will have to come back in a few years once they complete the various renovations.  Our shuttle driver who returned us to our car was filled with fun facts.  He told us of the marathons and the Race to the Cloud that occurs each year.  The marathon was canceled due to … you got it… COVID.   However, the Race to the Clouds was still being held on August 30^th.  Various vehicles are timed from the start at 9,390 feet to the top of the summit. The best time wins.  There are 156 turns and as long as it passes a safety inspection any vehicle will be allowed.  This race has been going on since 1916 when it was a dirt road and only 6 people have died.  Amazing!