That's the sound of the cog railway as it makes its way up the side of Pikes Peak, journeying from the town of Manitou Springs up to the 14,115 foot peak just west of Colorado Springs. The main season is from early March through the end of December but they do run year-around.
We now have five confirmed for the meet-up so it is officially on! For anyone who wishes to join our group, the 10:40 AM train is the only morning train with tickets still available (that's our time choice, so that's good) but I'd recommend making reservations as soon as possible. You can make reservations here. They may fill up even today. Our (Mr & Mrs. Colotim, Leftcandid) reservation number is 501496 so call them and ask to be seated with us.
I have it on good authority (Ed Greene from Channel 7 in Denver) that the high for Denver on that day will be 86 degrees so it ought to be very pleasant weather for the whole trip - but the top of the mountain is likely to be only in the 40's. Bring cameras and prepare to join us for a fall colors viewing trip like none other!
BTW - this is for Saturday, September 26th, on the 10:40 AM train. D'oh!!! We may see about a meetup with any locals who didn't want to take the train but still want to get together in Manitou Springs after we get down - it's a very nice town.