Heading to Pikes Peak this summer? Here are a few things to know

As Pikes Peak Highway opens reservations for driving up the 14,115-foot mountain, officials are reminding visitors of destinations that will be closed along the way.

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Of the three reservoirs making up North Slope Recreation Area, only one will open near usual around the turn of May: Crystal Creek Reservoir, though some trails around it are expected to be closed due to what Colorado Springs Utilities calls "complexities" of upcoming construction.

Vehicles will be barred from the larger North and South Catamount reservoirs as Utilities embarks on what it calls "a major rehabilitation project" on South Catamount's 87-year-old dam.

That motor access is expected to be closed through 2025. North Catamount Reservoir can be reached via trail from Teller County's Catamount Ranch Open Space. Officials have advised parking there is "very limited, so please plan accordingly."

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That was the word from a recent city of Colorado Springs news release announcing reservations for the Pikes Peak Highway season ahead. Returning drivers will find a much different scene at South Catamount Reservoir, which is expected to be nearly empty during the dam construction.

Utilities announced the move last year, as onlookers voiced concerns over business, tourism and "displaced" visitors. The Pikes Peak-America's Mountain enterprise reports upwards of 25,000 people every year the past few years have bought passes at the highway gate specifically for North Slope Recreation Area.

New this year due to expected parking limitations, drivers seeking Crystal Creek Reservoir must reserve a parking pass for $1 to go with per-guest permits. Those are $5 (free for youth younger than 16). Parking passes can be reserved online with other permits for the road.

Starting in May, timed entry permits for driving past mile 7 to the summit will be $2, plus daily admission: $15 for adults and $5 for youth (ages 6-15). For those wanting to leave their vehicle behind at mile 7, shuttle rides are $30 for adults, $10 for kids.