Cascade-Chipita Park connects directly to the Pikes Peak Highway and offers recreational opportunities at the reservoirs and select cultural attractions. When planning your trip, it’s worth distinguishing between these highlights: the drive to the summit, seasonal visits, and activities on the water each come with their own considerations. You can first decide which experiences you want to shape your stay, then check suitable dates for your visit.
The Pikes Peak Highway
The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile paved toll road to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. The road’s entrance is in Cascade; from Colorado Springs, take US-24 and Fountain Avenue. Road conditions and operating requirements may vary. Check the latest information before adding the highway to your plans.
Reservoirs and activities at North Slope
The North Slope Recreation Area sits at an elevation of 9,200 feet along the Pikes Peak Highway and is accessible via Cascade. It includes three freshwater reservoirs where visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. Water access is subject to seasonal conditions and the rules posted on site.
Crystal Creek Reservoir has developed picnic areas and trails along the lake. At South Catamount Reservoir, hiking and mountain biking are allowed only on designated trails; their availability depends on seasonal conditions and the posted rules. At North Catamount Reservoir, fishing is permitted only with artificial flies and lures. Check the current regulations before fishing. The reservoirs therefore have different highlights: picnic areas and lakeside trails at Crystal Creek, trail activities subject to a clear restriction at South Catamount, and a specific lure rule at North Catamount.
Seasonal culture and annual events
The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop is located at 5050 Pikes Peak Highway in Cascade, Colorado. Operating details are seasonal; check the latest dates before visiting. Santa’s Village at the North Pole – Santa’s Workshop amusement park includes a show featuring Elmer the Elf.
The Chipita Park Association Arts & Crafts Fair may also be of interest when planning your trip: it is held annually and offers homemade baked goods and other food products for sale. If you’d like to coordinate your visit with the fair, check the specific event date.
Local history and the Pikes Peak race
The Chipita Park Lodge served as a post office, store, and community gathering place. As a post office and store, it served practical purposes; as a gathering place, it also played a role in community life. These different roles illustrate part of the area’s local history.
The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb takes place in the wider region around Cascade-Chipita Park. It is an invitational automobile race to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. Each July, the Pikes Peak Hill Climb draws thousands of participants and fans to the area. If you’d like to coordinate your trip with the race, check the specific event dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Calhan, Manitou Springs, Monument, Peyton, Fountain, Cimarron Hills, Colorado Springs.
Return to the broader travel overview: El Paso.
