Within the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, the Russell Tutt Scenic Highway ascends the mountainside to an elevation of 8,136 feet. The Russell Tutt Scenic Highway ends at the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.
History
Rusell Tutt Scenic Highway bears the name of Russell T. Tutt, an important figure in Colorado Springs business. After working on Wall Street in the 1940’s, Tutt returned home to Colorado Springs to work for the El Pomar Foundation and the Brodmoor.
In 1937, Spencer Penrose completed the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. The commemorative tower was put in place for Cherokee-born vaudeville actor, Will Rogers, who died in a plane crash in Alaska while the structure was being built.
Driving on Russell Tutt Scenic Highway
The Russell Tutt Scenic Highway is a 1.4 mile section of the well paved and maintained section of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road. To access the highway, a park admission fee is required. Typically, the last car is allowed to travel to the shrine one hour before the zoo closes.
Seasonality – Access to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun via the Russell Tutt Scenic Highway is generally kept open year round. However, the road cannot be accessed when the zoo is closed in the evenings, on major holidays, and during periods of inclement weather.
Vehicle Restrictions – There are no restrictions on vehicles that can safely traverse the Russell Tutt Scenic Highway. The road has a few tight turns that require motorists to be alert.
Activities near Russell Tutt Scenic Highway
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is considered “America’s Only Mountain Zoo.” The destination is famous for its wolves, giraffes, and overall variety of interesting animal species. The zoo lies on the outskirts of Colorado Springs, which is home to many dining, staying, and entertainment options.
Details
Address: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Season: Year Round
Elevation: 8,136 feet (2,480 m)
County: El Paso County
Mountain Range: Rampart Range
Coordinates: 38°46′20″N 104°51′44″W
Access: Cheyenne Mountain Highway, within Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
