Pikes Peak Highway opens to cyclists [Out There Colorado]

As our avid local cyclists would say: Pedal on!

Colorado Springs and the U.S. Forest Service have agreed to open the Pikes Peak Highway to cyclists Jan. 1.

The winding highway from Cascade to the 14,115-foot summit has been closed to cyclists except those on organized rides, but a recent trial program was so successful that access will become permanent.

"We are very excited to open the Pikes Peak Highway to cyclists year round," said Karen Palus, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director for Colorado Springs.

More than 1,000 cyclists took advantage of a trial program in September and attempted the nearly 7,000-foot climb that covers about 19 miles.

"I am thrilled," said local cyclist and cycling advocate Al Brody, who plans to ride to the summit in January, first on a bicycle and then on a unicycle. "I think we’ll see that this will be great for tourism. I literally see a million cyclists will want to do this.”

[Keep reading at Out There Colorado]