If you’ve ever dreamed of stretching your legs above the treeline, breathing crisp mountain air, and watching the world unfold beneath you, Monica Breckenridge’s ride on the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway will spark your sense of adventure. The Cog Railway is one of Colorado’s most iconic experiences, carrying riders from charming Manitou Springs all the way to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. Monica’s video captures the magic, but nothing compares to sitting on the train yourself as the world changes outside your window.
The ride begins at the base, where lush forests and rocky cliffs surround you. As the train climbs higher, each bend reveals a new surprise - towering pines give way to alpine tundra, and eventually, you’re surrounded by sweeping views that stretch for miles. This is more than just a scenic journey. It’s a ride through history. The Cog Railway has been operating since 1891, originally powered by steam before evolving through gas and diesel to today’s modern railcars. While you enjoy the comfort of upgraded seats and big windows, you’re also experiencing a piece of Colorado heritage that has been drawing travelers for over a century.
Monica’s video does a beautiful job of showing the changing landscapes, the crisp alpine air, and the jaw-dropping views from the summit. On a clear day you can see as far as Kansas and New Mexico, with rolling mountain ranges and wide-open skies that make you feel like you’re standing on top of the world. The steady rhythm of the train, the thinner air as you climb, the way the scenery transforms mile by mile, it all builds up to that big reveal at the summit.
Planning your own Cog Railway adventure is easy but a few tips will make it even better. Weather at the top can be unpredictable, so bring layers, even in summer. Tickets sell quickly during peak seasons, so it’s smart to reserve ahead of time. If you’re looking for the best light and fewer crowds, try an early morning or late afternoon ride. And don’t forget your camera or binoculars. Between the wildlife, unique rock formations, and incredible views, you’ll want to capture every moment.
The Cog Railway appeals to just about everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts who usually hike can give their legs a break without missing out on the high alpine experience. Families love the combination of adventure and comfort. History buffs will appreciate the engineering behind one of the only cog railways of its kind still in operation. And for anyone who simply wants to experience Colorado’s beauty without a strenuous trek, this ride delivers in spades.
Colorado has endless ways to explore the outdoors, but the Cog Railway offers something truly special. It’s comfortable yet adventurous, steeped in history yet modernized for today, and it provides the kind of unforgettable views that make you fall in love with the Rockies. Monica’s video gives you a taste of the journey, but stepping onto that train and watching the landscape unfold in real time is an experience you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home.
If you want a taste of what it’s like before you book your own trip, Monica Breckenridge captured the journey beautifully on video. From the first climb out of Manitou Springs to the sweeping 360-degree views at the summit, her footage gives you a front-row seat to the changing landscapes and the magic of the ride. Watching it is the next best thing to being there yourself.
