MANITOU SPRINGS, CO - - Today dawned bright and clear, but we could see snow covering and blowing on top of Pikes Peak from our campground site. We called the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway info line: yes, there were still seats available and sorry, but the railway would 'only' ascend to about 12,000' rather than the top at 14,115'. due to heavy snow and strong winds. The above picture shows the work train with the snow plow in front waiting for the 'go' signal to plow ahead. So our train reversed its action and trundled back down. Unlike a powered locomotive, the train depends on cogs/gears which rotate through a groove of teeth in the middle of the track.....something like watching a bicycle chain and gearing work.
We made a stop on the way back at 10,000' to stretch legs and take photos. A dandy three level bird condo (top photo) with duct tape accents had plenty of activity.
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