The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also called The Race to the Clouds, is an annual car and motorcycle ascent to the summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado. The paved road is 12.42 miles (about 20 km) and is very curved—it has over 150 turns. The elevation gain is 4,720 ft (1,440 m). The PPIHC climb starts at Mile 7 on Pikes Peak Highway and ends at an elevation of 14,110 ft (4,300 m) on the top of Pikes Peak.
Schedule of the Race
The Race features about 130 participants: cars, trucks, quads, and motorcycles. Practice takes place Tuesday–Friday before Race Day from 5 am to 8:30 am. The hillclimb is divided into three sections: from the Start Line to Glen Cove, from Glen Cove to Devils Playground, and from Devils Playground to the Summit. The Race starts at 7:30 am on June 23. Following the Race's conclusion, spectators will have the opportunity to stand outside the fences, albeit at their own risk, to enjoy the Parade of Champions. The "King of the Mountain" title is awarded to the driver who achieves the fastest overall time each year.
Fan Fest (June 21, 2024)
Fan Fest, a vibrant street festival, kicks off on the Friday evening before Race Day, drawing over 35,000 enthusiastic attendees across 10 blocks of excitement. At Fan Fest, you'll have the chance to meet and mingle with drivers, engage with top sponsors, and marvel at thrilling stunts during the FMX Show. Mark your calendars for this thrilling event on June 21, 2024, from 5 pm to 9 pm, right in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs.
Tickets
Race Day Tickets are sold by spectator area. Singe ticket for viewing the race from Turn 1 Viewing is $90/person. "Family Pack" tickets are based on the total number of attendees in a vehicle and location and start at $170 for a family of two and go up to $300 for a family of eight. The 9 Mile, Halfway Picnic Grounds, ski area, Glen Cove, and Cove Creek viewing point prices are $100 per person and $190-$350 for family packages. Devil Playground Viewing Point's prices are $150 per person and $280–$500 for family packages. Motorcycle tickets are $45–$140 per person. Practice Day Tickets are $85-$115. Camping Permits are $300 per vehicle. Kids under ten don't require a race ticket.
History of the Festival
Spencer Penrose organized the first Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 1916, and the first winner, Rea Lentz, covered the track in about 20 minutes. In 1971, the race was won by the first non-gasoline car, running on propane. Electric cars have been competing in the race since the 1980s. Spectators must observe the race only from designated viewing areas. Remember that it is a dangerous race, and all viewers attend at their own risk.
