Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun

The most common way to reach the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is by driving up from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Your zoo admission often covers access to the shrine, making it a convenient addition to your visit. The drive itself offers scenic mountain views.

While you can drive to the shrine, some visitors participate in events like the 'Walk Run to the Shrine,' which involves a significant climb. For general access, driving from the zoo is recommended.

Walking directly to the shrine from Colorado Springs is not a typical or recommended route due to the distance and elevation gain. Access is primarily via the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

From the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo entrance, follow the signs for the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. The road winds up the mountainside, offering increasingly impressive views as you ascend.

Yes, there is parking available at the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, typically near the entrance and the mini-museum.

Generally, access to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is included with your admission to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. It's advisable to confirm this when purchasing your zoo tickets.

The operating hours for the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun usually align with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's hours. It's best to check the zoo's official website for the most up-to-date information.

Typically, there is no separate fee for the shrine if you have a valid Cheyenne Mountain Zoo ticket. It's considered a bonus attraction.

While it's possible to drive up, access is often tied to zoo admission. It's recommended to plan your visit in conjunction with the zoo to ensure entry.

The shrine occasionally hosts events, and the groundskeeper may offer historical insights. Check the El Pomar Foundation or Cheyenne Mountain Zoo websites for any scheduled activities.

The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains, perfect for sweeping landscape shots. The shrine's architecture itself is also very photogenic.

Drone footage has been captured and shared, showcasing the majestic structure and its surroundings. However, always check local regulations and any posted restrictions before flying a drone.

Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the shrine, including the observation decks and the chapel. Be mindful of any posted signs regarding photography restrictions.

Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide beautiful, soft lighting for both the shrine's architecture and the expansive views. Clear mornings also offer excellent visibility.

Don't miss the view from the very top, looking out over the valley. The staircase leading up also provides a unique photographic perspective.

Will Rogers was a beloved American humorist, actor, and social commentator. The shrine was built in 1937 by his friend Spencer Penrose as a tribute to Rogers after his tragic death in an airplane crash.

Built in 1937, the shrine is a historical landmark dedicated to Will Rogers. It was commissioned by Spencer Penrose and stands as a testament to their friendship and Rogers' enduring legacy.

Spencer Penrose, the wealthy Coloradoan who built the shrine, and his wife Julie Penrose are buried in the chapel at the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.

Perched nearly 8,000 feet above sea level on Cheyenne Mountain, the shrine's location was chosen for its commanding panoramic views, offering a spectacular backdrop for the tribute.

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun features an Art Deco-inspired architectural style, characteristic of its construction in the late 1930s.