The great beauty of Pikes Peak and the surrounding area inspired author Katherine Bates to write "America the Beautiful" in the summer of 1893 after ascending the mountain in a wagon.  Today you can enjoy the same view by riding to the summit on the highest cog railway in the world.  Built in 1891, the "cog" railway was constructed with geared tracks that mesh with geared wheels on the train, allowing the train to climb at grades up to 25%.  At the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak the visitor can enjoy panoramic views of the Continental Divide to the Great Plains and visit the snack bar and gift shop at the Summit House.