You will find trailheads for mountain bikes at the North and South Catamount Reservoir parking lots. Bicycles are allowed on The Pikes Peak Highway.
The Summit is a destination in itself. The view from 14,115 feet is fabulous, stretching as far as Kansas or New Mexico on a clear day. Reward yourself with a world famous Pikes Peak donut from the Summit House.
History of Pikes Peak’s World Famous Donuts
Captain Hanson Crockett Gregory was said to be the inventor of the donut. As Legend has it, Mrs. Gregory sent her son Captain Gregory on one of his sea voyages with her secret recipe. This cake had several ingredients which included walnuts in the middle. However, the Captain did not like walnuts so he had his cooks poke a hole in the middle to remove the walnuts. The ships cooks subsequently created all the donuts with the centers removed by using the top of a round tin pepper box as a cutter. Today you can find World Famous Pikes Peak Donuts only on top of the 14,115 ft. Mountain. The recipe has been tried at lower elevations and does not work. However, there is a secret ingredient that makes the donuts much like the original donut ever invented. Can you guess what that secret ingredient might be?
Fishing season is May – mid October; a valid Fishing License is required for those 16 and up. Regulations are posted in reservoir parking lots. Contact the Colorado Division of Wildlife at 719.227.5200 for more info.
Hiking is a great way to experience the Peak’s tremendous beauty and spectacular vistas. At Crystal Reservoir (near Mile Marker 6) you can hike the short Overlook Trail or other lakeside trails. Elk Park Trail (one mile above Glen Cove) is 5.2 miles one way and offers back access to Barr Camp. Barr Trail is 13 miles one way, with its trailhead in the Cog Railway parking area (start early, this trail is challenging). A meal or a bunk may be available at Barr Camp.
At Crystal Reservoir, try your hand at “panning” for minerals you could get some great souvenirs. There is also a mining sluice available at Glen Cove.
This area includes 2,267 wooded acres and three lakes (North and South Catamount and Crystal Reservoirs). Enjoy bank fishing, non-gasoline powered boating, belly boating, mountain biking and picnicking. Or pan for minerals at the Mining Sluice at Crystal Reservoir.
