Exploring the Pikes Peak Region From Cascade

High in Pike National Forest above nine thousand feet, Rampart Reservoir spreads out north of Cascade with clear alpine water lined by pine forest. A shoreline trail stretching nearly eleven miles circles the lake, drawing paddlers in summer and anglers casting for trout along quiet coves.

Rockhound ATV Tours operates out of Cascade, leading guided rides through forest trails at the base of Pikes Peak. Riders climb through changing terrain toward wide mountain lookouts, with guides sharing local history along the way. The company keeps groups small, and trips typically wrap up back at the trailhead within a few hours.

Red sandstone formations rise across the western edge of Colorado Springs at Garden of the Gods, framed by views of Pikes Peak in the distance. Miles of trails wind past the rock spires, and the park's visitor center anchors the grounds with exhibits on its geology. Balanced Rock remains one of the most photographed formations in the park.

Cave of the Winds sits above Williams Canyon in Manitou Springs, where guided tours lead visitors through limestone passages formed over millions of years. The mountain park above the caves adds a canyon swing and zip line for those wanting views from outside as well as below ground. Tours have run here since 1881.

At Manitou Cliff Dwellings, visitors step inside multi-story sandstone rooms originally built by Ancestral Puebloans and later relocated, brick by brick, to protect them from flooding. Self-guided passages climb ladders into kivas, while adjacent museums display pottery, weaponry, and dioramas that explain daily life in Mesa Verde six centuries ago.

Nine miles of track carry riders from a depot in Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak aboard the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The train climbs through pine forest into alpine tundra, with conductors pointing out landmarks and wildlife along the route. Freshly made doughnuts wait for passengers once they reach the top.

Boards & Barrels Bistro & Whiskey House serves elevated comfort food out of a cozy dining room in Woodland Park. The menu pairs dishes like blueberry BBQ meatloaf and beer cheese soup with an extensive whiskey flight list. A creme brulee finishes many meals, and the restaurant fills a converted building along Highway 24.

Eclectic, mismatched decor fills the dining room at The Pantry in Green Mountain Falls, where the menu centers on hearty breakfast plates. Chicken fried steak and eggs benedict served with avocado and bacon are longtime favorites among regulars. Weekend mornings often bring live music, and lines form early once the doors open.

Wines of Colorado sits along Highway 24 in Cascade, with a rustic dining room and a creek running past outdoor tables. Wine flights pair with a rotating menu that includes charcuterie boards and sandwiches like the Colorado dip. The creekside patio is a popular stop after hikes on the nearby Manitou Incline.

An Alice in Wonderland theme runs through The Mad Hatter Saloon, a roadside spot in Cascade built around smoked wings and thin crust pizza. Outdoor seating wraps around a bar accessible from both inside and out, and the tap list rotates through a wide selection of Colorado beers. Many stop in after a day at Pikes Peak.

Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant occupies a historic building in Manitou Springs, where servers bring a tableside grill for the entree course of a four course meal. Diners start with a cheese fondue, often the Greek Isle blend, then finish with chocolate fondue for dessert. Candlelit tables and vintage decor give the dining room a quiet, old world feel.

Manitou Brewing Company tucks into an alleyway off the main strip in Manitou Springs, pouring a rotating lineup of house made craft beers. The kitchen turns out bar food like pretzel knots and white cheddar mac, and Monday nights bring a bingo game with prizes from the taproom. Both indoor and patio seating stay dog friendly year round.