If you’re planning a visit to the Rocky Mountains you better make sure it contains a visit to Pikes Peak, the “most visited” mountain in North America and the second most visited in the world second only to Japan’s Mount Fuji. How’s that for notoriety. Pretty lofty, wouldn’t you agree? And speaking of “lofty,” you should know that Pikes Peak rises over 14,000 feet above sea level with over 500,000 people reaching its summit each year. When planning your trip you should allow at least two hours to make the 38-mile round trip from the base to the summit and keep in mind that uphill traffic has the right of way at all times. Stopping should only be done in the turnouts provided. On the way down you should always use the lowest gear available and make every effort to not “ride” ‘your brakes since this can lead to problems such as overheating or failure. Also, while up on the mountain try to stay aware of signs for altitude sickness such as headache, dizziness or impaired judgment. If you experience any of these, the only treatment is to reduce your altitude. In the winter watch out for signs of hypothermia, and in the summer watch out for rattlesnakes who love to sun themselves. But other than that enjoy the wide expansive views and the many types of wildlife that will be present especially common are bighorn sheep and the black bear (sometimes weighing in as much as 450 pounds and standing 6 feet). And by all means please remember to be kind in your surroundings not only to other tourists and wildlife, but to the ecology of the mountain, too. Please avoid polluting streams or grounds by always remembering to dispose of litter or trash in the receptacle that are provided. With a little attention Pikes Peak will be around for centuries to come for many more to enjoy!