FAQs

The PPIHC is an exciting event for the whole family, but it can be unpredictable. By all means, bring the kids, but keep them under close supervision. Children must be accompanied by an adult if in the pit areas. Children 9 and under are admitted free of charge.

No pets are allowed on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain during race activities including overnight camping.

• No tickets will be sold after 10am on Race Day.
• No admittance to the event after 10am on Race Day.
• Once you drive above the Start Line, you will not be able to leave the mountain or go back down the course until the race is completed. Depending on how the race progresses (course or weather delays) this can be any time after 4:00 p.m.
• Parking in a designated area is not guaranteed, and is offered on a first come, first served basis.

On Race Day, race cars are released from the Start Line approximately every 4-5 minutes. With the current field size and no red flags, the race would finish at approximately 2:00pm. However, over the past 5 years there have been an average of 2-3 hours of stoppage time (due to racing incidents, spectator issues, weather, etc.).

Depending on how the race progresses (course or weather delays) this can be any time after 4:00 p.m.

• At the completion of the race, spectators will be allowed to stand outside of the fences (but behind the white lines of the road) for the Parade of Champions. Once the competitors have descended from the summit, spectators will be released from the top of the mountain to the bottom. Those who view the race from Devils Playground will be released first, with 9 Mile to be released last. Traffic is two-lane downhill (post-race) until instructed to merge at Crow Gulch (below the Start Line).
• A Race Official will release your parking area.
• Use a low gear on your descent. Hot Brakes Fail!

The PPIHC is a dangerous race and all spectators attend at their own risk.  All spectators must view the race from designated spectator viewing areas.  Spectator viewing areas do not insure safety.

• Spectators will only be allowed to view the race from designated spectator viewing areas along the course: Devils Playground, Cove Creek, Glen Cove, Ski Area, Halfway Picnic Grounds, 9 Mile and the Start Line area. Spectators found outside of these areas are subject to trespassing tickets.
• Devils Playground provides great views above the tree line; weather can be cold and windy at times. Cove Creek is at the timberline; Glen Cove is a popular spot below the tree line. The Ski Area has parking but you will need to walk to a viewing area. Halfway Picnic Grounds gives plenty of room for competitors to exceed 100 mph. The Start Line provides fans with an up close view of the competitors and their vehicles since the pits are accessible to spectators. Click to view the Yokohama Course Map.
• The Pikes Peak Highway is a mountain toll road 364 days out of the year, and a race course for one day. There is no grandstand seating at the PPIHC. Bring a camp chair or a blanket.

Spectator Course Rules:

• No pets are allowed on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain during any race activities.
• No fireworks.
• No open fires.
• No firearms.
• No drones.
• Once you drive above the Start Line, you will not be able to leave the mountain or go back down the course until the race is completed. Depending on how the race progresses (course or weather delays) this can be any time after 4:00 p.m.
• Within the spectator viewing areas, all spectators must stay as far back from the race course as possible.
• All spectators must remain inside designated areas, indicated on spectator maps.
• Do NOT stand behind orange fencing under any circumstance. Orange fencing in a spectator viewing area indicates a prohibited area.
• Everyone in spectator viewing areas is encouraged to have some sort of barrier protection if possible (rocks, trees, and vehicles etc.). Fencing does not qualify as a barrier protection. For those who do not have barrier protection, it is recommended to view from higher ground in order to elevate yourself from the race course.
• Each spectator is expected to obey requests from PPIHC Course Officials, PPIHC Staff and Volunteers, Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain Rangers and Law Enforcement.
• Motor homes will not be allowed through the Gateway on Race Day.
• Stay off of and away from hay bales and guard rails.
• Off-Highway Vehicles (dirt bikes, ATVs, etc.), bicycles and unlicensed vehicles are not allowed at any time on the mountain, no exceptions.

Food vendors may be available on the mountain at various locations (cannot be guaranteed, weather permitting). Please bring adequate food and water in case a vendor is sold out or there is no vendor. Gas or propane stoves with shut off valves are permitted; self-contained charcoal grills are prohibited. No open fires.

Please bring cash to purchase from food vendors.

• View the current weather at the Summit of Pikes Peak here.
• Weather on Pikes Peak- America’s Mountain is unpredictable. A typical summer day can start out very sunny and warm, and turn intensely cold with rain, snow, fog or hail.
• Lightning is common. In the event of lightning or hail, take shelter in your vehicle.
• Dress in layers.
• Apply sunscreen frequently.

Emergency Medical Services:

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will be available at locations placed along the Race Course. These locations can be found on the Yokohama Course Map.
• First Aid Stations may be located at each Spectator Area adjacent to the Information Tent on Race Day only.

Altitude Sickness:

• The race starts at 9,300 ft. and finishes at 14,115 ft. Signs of high altitude sickness include nausea, dizziness and fainting. To reduce the severity of the illness, medical experts recommend you drink plenty of water and refrain from caffeine and/or alcohol. If you are visiting the area and are not used to being at altitude for long periods of time (12-14 hours) we recommend that you enjoy the race from one of the lower spectator areas.

Hot/Cold:

• Be aware of the warning signs of heat related emergencies. Heat can affect almost anyone, but people of particularly high risk are the very young, very old, overweight and those doing strenuous activities. Drink plenty of water.
• Mornings can be chilly to extremely cold and windy. Certain areas on the mountain may not receive sunlight until mid-morning. Areas in the Upper Section are seldom warm. Dress accordingly.

Trail #753 from Devils Playground to the summit of Pikes Peak, will be temporarily closed at Devils Playground on Sunday, June 23.  The temporary closure is necessary for public safety reasons during the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The temporary trail closure will be in effect on Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 12:01am until 6:00pm. Barr Trail #620 will be open to the summit of Pikes Peak. Access to the summit west of the Summit House will be restricted to only PPIHC credentialed personnel. Please contact the Pikes Peak Ranger District Office (719-636-1602) for more information.

For more information call (719) 685-5401.  NOTE: Passengers riding to the Summit will not be able to view the racing action.  www.cograilway.com

Leave No Trace:

• Preservation: The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is committed to preserving Pikes Peak’s beautiful environment, which has provided a thrilling setting for the Race to the Clouds for 100+ years.  We have done everything possible to prevent any negative impact on these spectacular surroundings and encourage spectators to do the same by observing these principles of “Leave No Trace.”

  Pack It In / Pack It Out: Please clean up your viewing area before you leave. Take your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly. We encourage recycling.

  Tread Lightly: Avoid fragile vegetation. Keep wildlife wild.  Stick to trails. Stay off tundra above timberline. No rock climbing. Don’t construct lean-tos or tree stands. No trench digging to divert water.

  Thank you for leaving Pikes Peak as you found it.

Restrictions:

• NEW – Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is now a NO SMOKING campus from the Gateway to the Summit. This includes all pit areas, spectator viewing areas and while on the Pikes Peak Highway.  All employees, contracted employees, special event participants, and officials are prohibited from smoking any cigarette, pipe, cigar, or electronic smoking device on the property unless a designated area is provided. Smoking any of the above is allowable in personal vehicles only; however all ashes, butts, etc. must remain in the car. Furthermore, Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is federally owned property and possession of marijuana is prohibited.
• NO fireworks
• NO open fires
• NO firearms
• NO pets
• NO drones
• It is illegal to operate any off-road vehicles including dirt bikes, ATV’s, and bicycles on the Pikes Peak Highway or surrounding areas. These vehicles will be impounded.

Vehicle Information:

• Motor homes will not be allowed through the Gateway on Race Day.
• Off-Highway Vehicles (dirt bikes, ATVs, etc.), bicycles and unlicensed vehicles are not allowed at any time on the mountain, no exceptions.
• No trailers are allowed on Race Day.
• It is recommended to have at least 3/4 tank of fuel in your vehicle when venturing up Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. The nearest gas station is over 8 miles to the east or west on Highway 24 from the Pikes Peak Gateway.

PPIHC Traffic Plan

Gateway Entrance information: All vehicles over 10’ clearance enter through Gate 3 (the entrance on the far right). Any other vehicles enter through Gate 1, (the uphill lane on the far left) or enter through Gate 2, (the middle lane).

Race Morning (1:30am-10:00am) Credentialed Personnel and Spectators: Use the right lane only. No left lane uphill traffic.

Post Race (spectators exiting): A Race Official/Law Enforcement will release your parking area from Devils Playground down.

• Devils Playground – Cove Pit: 1 way traffic, weather permitting (two lanes downhill)
• Cove Creek – Crow Gulch: 1 way traffic (two lanes downhill)
• Crow Gulch – Highway 24: 2 way traffic (one lane downhill)

Race Coverage

• View post race interviews and on-board competitor footage on our YouTube Page.
• Follow live timing at ppihc.org.
• Listen live to KRDO 1240 AM at krdo.com.

In consideration of being permitted to enter for any purpose the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb “event” (herein defined as including but not limited to the racing surface, spectator areas, infield, pit areas, and all walkways, roadways, concession areas and other areas appurtenant to any area where any activity related to the competitive racing event shall take place)”:

RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY: I, for myself, my heirs, next of kin, personal representatives and assigns, hereby release, waive, discharge and covenant not to sue the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC), City of Colorado Springs – Pikes Peak America’s Mountain (PPAM),  United States Auto Club, Inc. (USAC), its successors and assigns, the race organizer presenting USAC sanctioned events, the owners and lessees of premises on which USAC sanctioned events, including car owners, drivers, mechanics, pit crews, and any persons in any restricted area, promoters, sponsors, advertisers, manufacturers of all racing equipment upon the premises, and the officers, directors, officials, representatives, agents and employees of all of them (all of whom for the purposes herein are referred to as “releasees”) from all liability, loss, claims, demands, possible causes of action, court costs, attorneys’ fees and other expenses arising from any lawsuit that may otherwise accrue from any loss, damage or injury (including death) to my person or property in any way resulting from, or arising in connection with, or related to, any sanctioned event, and whether arising while engaged in competition or in practice or preparation therefore, or while upon, entering or departing from said premises, from any cause whatsoever including without limitation, the failure of anyone to enforce rules and regulations, failure to make inspections, or the negligence of releasees or other persons.

ASSUMPTION OF RISK. I know the risk to myself and property, both from known risk and unanticipated risk, while in or upon the restricted area or while participating or assisting in a sanctioned event, and I do so willingly, voluntarily and in reliance, not upon the property, equipment, facilities and existing conditions furnished by others, but upon my own judgment and ability, and I thereby assume all risk of loss, damage or injury (including death) to myself and my property from any cause whatsoever and whether or not attributable to the negligence of releasees or other persons.

INDEMNITY AGREEMENT. I hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless the releasees and each of them from any loss, liability, damage or cost they may incur due to the presence of the undersigned in or upon the restricted area, whether caused by the negligence of releasees or other persons.

The PPIHC reserves the right to cancel the Event, and ancillary events at its own discretion.  No refunds will be given.

RELEASE OF MEDIA AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

Any and all PPIHC events shall not be recorded or photographed for commercial purposes without the express written consent of The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (“PPIHC”).

All media (including images, photos, video footage, and audio recordings) and intellectual property rights related to or associated with PPIHC and PPIHC events (collectively, “Media”), including the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb auto race (the “Race”), belongs to PPIHC, and is wholly reserved in perpetuity to PPIHC and its licensees.  All Media from or related to PPIHC events, including but not limited to photos and footage, are part of the PPIHC’s intellectual property and can be used by PPIHC and/or its licensees for promotional purposes or any other purposes.  All Media belongs to PPIHC and is for the PPIHC’s exclusive (except as agreed to by PPIHC), perpetual, and worldwide usage.

Any unauthorized use or sale of Media, including, but not limited to, reproduction, retransmission, or the making of or inclusion of Media into a broadcast, internet, web, motion picture, DVD or tape program, or any other form of distribution, without the prior express written consent of the PPIHC, is strictly prohibited.  The licensing or sub-licensing of creative content from PPIHC events shall be strictly forbidden without the prior express written consent of the PPIHC.  The PPIHC has the sole and exclusive rights to all creative content, including but not limited to images and footage taken by spectators at PPIHC events and/or persons without media credentials.

The PPIHC trademarked event name and logo, any and all PPIHC photos, and the PPIHC course map are the property of the PPIHC and may not be utilized in any form for product sales without express written permission from the PPIHC.  Payment of appropriate licensing fee is required.

NOTICE OF FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHY

When you enter a Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (“PPIHC”) event or program, you enter an area where photography, audio and video recording may occur.  By entering the event or program premises, you consent to interview(s), photography, audio recording, and/or video recording of yourself (collectively, “Materials”), and its/their release, publication, exhibition, reproduction, licensing, alteration, adaption, exploitation, or other use, in any format or medium now existing or hereafter created, and for any purpose, including but not limited to web casts, promotional purposes, telecasts, advertising, publicity, and public relations by PPIHC and its affiliates, representatives, sponsors, and licensees (collectively, “Affiliates”). You release PPIHC and its Affiliates, their officers, employees, and agents, and each and all persons involved, from any liability connected with PPIHC’s or its Affiliates’ exercise of the rights contained in this notice, including, without limitation, liability for any violation of the right to publicity, for defamation, invasion of privacy, or emotional distress.

By entering the event or program premises, you waive all rights you may have to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with any use of these Materials, regardless of the purpose or sponsoring of such use, exhibition, stream, broadcast, web cast, or other publication irrespective of whether a fee for admission to the program or event is charged. You also waive any right to inspect or approve any interview, photo, image, video and/or audio recording of yourself, taken by PPIHC or the person or entity designated to do so by PPIHC.

In the event of an accident/incident on or off the course, anyone attending the Event, whether credentialed or non-credentialed, may continue to film/shoot photos only if the driver is able to get out of the vehicle and there are no known injuries to the competitor, or anyone else involved.  If the competitor is trapped in the vehicle, is unconscious or has significant obvious injuries, all parties in the vicinity will immediately cease capturing images either by camera, cell phone, or any other recording device and will instruct others to do the same.

Any images or footage inadvertently captured by any spectator, accredited media, race official, volunteer, sponsor, crew member or anyone else attending the Event will immediately be turned over to, and become the property of, the PPIHC, their legal representatives, and/or law enforcement.

The PPIHC owns all media (including images, photos, video footage, and audio recordings) and intellectual property rights related to or associated with any crash/incident/or sensitive situation.   The PPIHC may deem any media captured as “restricted” and that media belongs to PPIHC and is for the PPIHC’s exclusive (except as agreed to by PPIHC), perpetual, worldwide usage. This includes any and all Media captured that the PPIHC deems restricted.

You agree that you have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability, and release before entering the event.

Port-o-lets are conveniently located at every Spectator Area.

All ticketed or credentialed personnel attending any PPIHC event agree to abide by current COVID restrictions and regulations in force at that time. These may include wearing face coverings or masks, social distancing or other measures mandated by federal, state or local agencies.