Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is a beloved landmark and tourist destination for people locally and from around the world. At 14,115’ the summit can be reached by the Pikes Peak Highway, Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway and by foot via the Barr or Crags trails. The site is located in the San Isabel and Pike National Forest, is a National Historic Landmark (NHL) and part of the Pikes Peak Tourism Historic District.
The harsh and high altitude conditions at the Peak have resulted in a deteriorated summit complex. The new complex aims to replace and consolidate the U.S. Army High-Altitude Research Laboratory, Colorado Springs Utilities Communication Towers, Summit Visitor Center and Plant Building. A one-story, non-building is nestled in the southwest corner of the site and an understated entry rises above grade and greets visitors, opening up the rest of the summit for exploration and to take in the expansive and pristine views: a once in a lifetime experience for some.