Pikes Peak in winter

Yes, you can go in winter, but plan for the top to be out of reach on some days. Snow decides, not the calendar.

Driving the Highway

Open year-round, weather permitting; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Snow often limits how far up you can drive. On November 3, 2026 the road was open to Crystal Reservoir, mile 6 (9,160 ft). Check today.
From October 1 the uphill gate opens at 9:00 AM, last entry 3:00 PM, summit closes 4:00 PM.
Winter rates (December 1 to April 30, 2026 rate sheet): $10 adult, $5 child, $35 carload.
No timed-entry permit needed after September 30.

Riding the Cog Railway

The Cog runs year-round on a reduced off-season schedule. Heavy snow can stop the train short of the summit, and there is no weather refund if it reaches the top. Departures are on the railway's ticket page. More on the Cog.

How cold?

Our estimate for an average January day at the summit: a high around 17 °F and a low around -10 °F. That is the NOAA 1991 to 2020 normal for Colorado Springs adjusted by the standard lapse rate, not a summit measurement. Wind makes it feel much colder. See the month-by-month table and the live summit forecast.

Winter on the mountain

A tubing hill at mile 11.5 (10,600 ft) when there is snow; dates and prices were not yet posted in November 2026.
Ranger-led snowshoe hikes, typically on Saturdays in February and March.
Backcountry ski access at Glen Cove (mile 13).

Hiking in winter

The Barr Trail is a serious winter undertaking above treeline: snow, ice, short days and no reliable ride down. The Manitou Incline stays open 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM from November to April with a free reservation.

Sources (13)· checked 2026-11-03

Every figure with its exact source: Pikes Peak Highway on the facts page.

Facts on this page last checked 2026-11-03 by the pikespeak.info editor. Rules and prices change; confirm with the operator before you travel. See every figure with its source.