The idea of motoring to the top of Pikes Peak took on an entirely different meaning in 1916 when Spencer Penrose created the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Also known as the “Race to the Clouds,” the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the nation’s highest auto race, second in age only to the Indy 500. The race is held midsummer each year and attracts top racers from around the world.

Starting at approximately Mile Marker 7, drivers take turns speeding to the summit through a dazzling array of 156 turns, and an elevation gain of almost 5,000 feet. Winners are chosen for each of an incredible assortment of vehicle types including stock cars, sprint cars, SUVs, dune buggies, motorcycles, and even the cabs off the big-rig 18-wheelers. The fastest time up the mountain is just over 10 minutes. This time may not be very impressive to those who have not yet made the trip to the top, but as you continue up the highway, you’ll surely change your mind as you near the summit.

The 2009 “Race to the Clouds” had a field approaching 200 competitors driving in 11 classes that feature a variety of automotive, semi truck, exhibition, open wheel, super stock car, pro truck and motorcycle vehicles.

The event's popular “Fan Fest,” is typically scheduled for the Friday before the race in downtown Colorado Springs. Attendees will be able to see some of the autos, trucks and motorcycles up close, meet the drivers, and enjoy music, food and entertainment. The 88th Race to the Clouds will occur in July 2010.

(Photograph circa 1920s, Courtesy of Pikes Peak Library Special Collections)