Fastest time up pikes peak12/29/2023 Tree line on Pikes Peak is reached at about Mile Marker 14, and the scenery is just divine. If your vehicle has a long wheelbase, you may want to avoid this turn entirely as it is difficult to rejoin the highway without backing up on the return from Elk Park Pullout. The road is very steep and drivers often can’t see over their car hood to ensure no one else is coming up this single-lane dirt road. Please be extremely cautious if you take this turn. This marks a steep turnoff that leads to Elk Park Pullout. Just before Mile Marker 14, you’ll see a gate on the left (north) side of the Highway. For those last few trees that do manage, they are often very deformed, looking almost like flag trees or “krummholz” – the German word for “crooked wood.” The altitude, amount of water and the wind make it nearly impossible for any upright plant to grow. If you thought the drive to this point was good, just wait for the outstanding views that are just ahead!’Īs you continue to the summit from Glen Cove, you’ll soon find yourself nearing tree line. Please drive carefully around this location as many pedestrians may be crossing the Highway. Several more switchbacks and you’ll soon be approaching the Alpine Life Zone and the historic Glen Cove Inn. The ski slopes have been replanted, but as you look at the hillside, you can clearly see where they once were. Between Miles Markers 11 and 12, the parking area for the former Glen Cove Ski Area will be on your left. Near Mile Marker 10, you’ll be entering the Sub Alpine Life Zone. Several trails are also accessible from this location. This location has numerous picnic tables, restrooms and several interpretive signs. (The photo to the right was taken shortly before this pullout.)īetween Mile Markers 9 and 10 is the Halfway Picnic Ground. This location is called the Peak View Photo Stop, but you won’t find any signs with that label. You’ll soon lose sight of Pikes Peak again, however, one of the best locations for viewing the peak with a foreground of fabulous fall foliage is just ahead on your left, between Mile Markers 7 and 8. The highway starts to twist and turn more as your proceed up the steeper grade of this leg.
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