The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb — the "Race to the Clouds" — is the second-oldest motor race in America, run since 1916. Cars launch one at a time up the Pikes Peak Highway: 12.42 miles, 156 turns, finishing at the 14,115-foot summit.
It's also one of the most logistically demanding spectator events in Colorado. Watching from the mountain means committing to a pre-dawn entry and a full day at altitude — worth it, but only if you go in knowing that.
Spectator areas sit at designated points up the mountain, and the road closes to regular traffic — once you're in, you're in until the mountain reopens. Entry lines form in the middle of the night for the best areas. Every year some spectators are caught off guard by that; don't be one of them.
Mountain rules apply harder here than anywhere: layers for a 40-degree swing, sun protection that respects 12,000+ feet, more water and food than feels reasonable, and patience. Afternoon weather on the Peak can turn fast, and the race schedule bends around it.
Race week has a footprint in town — fan events and car displays typically lead up to race day, and the vehicles themselves are worth seeing up close. For many first-timers, the downtown fan experience plus following the race remotely beats the 3 a.m. wake-up.
Keep planning
The race is traditionally held in late June. Check the live listings on this page or the race's official channels for the current year's date.
Yes, from designated spectator areas — but entry happens pre-dawn, the road closes for the day, and you commit to a full day at high altitude. Plan food, water, layers, and sun protection accordingly.
12.42 miles with 156 turns, climbing roughly 4,700 feet to finish at the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.
The mountain-side experience is a long, cold-then-hot day with no easy exit — a real ask for young kids. The in-town fan events during race week are the family-friendly way in.