It's no wonder Katharine Lee Bates wrote the words to "America the Beautiful", inspired by her mule ride up Pikes Peak in 1893. From the majestic snow capped Pikes Peak to the towering red rocks at Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon, the region has something for everyone. Take the famous Cog Railway or drive the Highway to the top of 14,110 foot Pikes Peak, tour the United States Air Force Academy, hike in Garden of the Gods or Cheyenne Cañon Park, shop in restored Old Colorado City or quaint Manitou Springs, visit our area's many museums and historical sites, experience whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River near Cañon City, take the scenic train or drive over the bridge at Royal Gorge or take a turn at the slots in Cripple Creek's historic gaming district. Enjoy clear spring mornings, warm summer days, view changing aspens in the fall, or relax by the fire on quiet snow covered afternoons. Historic accommodations, natural beauty and fun filled adventure await you! First inhabited by the Ute, Cheyenne, Kiowa and Arapahoe Indians and later discovered by Zebulon Pike and General William Jackson Palmer, the Pikes Peak region has a deep history. Palmer founded the his city of Colorado Springs as a resort community, nicknamed "Little London" at the time. The first Colorado City was founded in 1854 as a mining camp supply center. Today, the historic district of "Old Colorado City" is sprinkled with fine shops, restaurants and art galleries.