Manitou Incline
Conquer 2,768 steep steps gaining 2,000 ft in under a mile for breathtaking views. A true Colorado challenge!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Manitou Incline
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer 2,768 steep steps gaining 2,000 ft in under a mile for breathtaking views. A true Colorado challenge!
"The Manitou Incline is no joke! Take more water than you think you need."
Book Your Spot Online
Free reservations are required! Book ahead at ColoradoSprings.gov/incline. :ticket:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring more water than you think you need, plus electrolytes. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 2,768 Steps
Base of the Incline
Conquer the iconic, steep staircase that defines this challenging and rewarding hike.
Summit Overlook
Top of the Incline
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains.
Barr Trail Descent
From Summit to Base
A scenic and less strenuous 4-mile hike down, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations Are Key!
Prepare for a Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Your Spot Online
Free reservations are required! Book ahead at ColoradoSprings.gov/incline. :ticket:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring more water than you think you need, plus electrolytes. :droplet:
Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are essential for grip and support. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Barr Trail
Descend via Barr Trail for a safer, scenic route back down. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Your Spot Online
Free reservations are required! Book ahead at ColoradoSprings.gov/incline. :ticket:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring more water than you think you need, plus electrolytes. :droplet:
Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are essential for grip and support. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Barr Trail
Descend via Barr Trail for a safer, scenic route back down. :hiking_boot:
Pace Yourself
It's a tough climb! Take breaks, listen to your body, and don't push too hard. :muscle:
No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Incline. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Manitou Incline is a highly challenging but incredibly rewarding hike, praised for its intense workout and stunning summit views. While many celebrate conquering the 2,768 steps, some find the difficulty overwhelming. Proper preparation, including reservations and ample water, is crucial for a positive experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Manitou Incline is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. Parking can be challenging, so many visitors opt for the free shuttle service from the designated parking area in town. Some also choose to park and ride the bus directly to the base of the incline. +1
Parking near the Manitou Incline is limited and often fills up quickly. It's recommended to use the official parking lot and take the shuttle, or consider parking in Manitou Springs and using public transport.
Yes, a shuttle service is available from the designated parking area in Manitou Springs to the base of the Manitou Incline, making it easier to access the trailhead.
Driving directly to the trailhead is generally not recommended due to extremely limited parking. Utilizing the shuttle or public transport is the preferred method of access.
From Colorado Springs, you can drive to Manitou Springs and utilize the parking and shuttle system, or explore local bus routes that connect to Manitou Springs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a free online reservation is required to hike the Manitou Incline. You must book your slot in advance through the official website. 
Hiking the Manitou Incline itself is free, but you will need to pay for parking or use the shuttle service. Reservations are also free.
Reservations for the Manitou Incline can be made online at Colorado Springs' official website.
The Manitou Incline is generally open year-round, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official website for current operating status and reservation availability.
No, a reservation is mandatory to hike the Manitou Incline. Visitors without a reservation will not be permitted to ascend.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Manitou Incline features a challenging 2,768 steps.
The Manitou Incline has an elevation gain of approximately 2,000 feet.
The average time to complete the Manitou Incline hike is between 2 to 4 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you rest. Some visitors complete it faster, while others take longer.
Yes, the Manitou Incline is considered a very difficult hike due to its steepness and elevation gain. It's a significant physical challenge.
While technically possible, the Manitou Incline is extremely challenging for beginners. It's recommended to have a good level of fitness and to be well-prepared.
Bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Electrolytes are also highly recommended.
No, dogs are strictly prohibited on the Manitou Incline.
Descending the Manitou Incline is not permitted. Hikers must use the Barr Trail to return to the base.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views for photos. Midway points also provide unique perspectives of the stairs and the surrounding landscape. Capturing your progress on the steps themselves is also popular.
Absolutely! The dramatic incline, the challenging climb, and the stunning views from the top all make for fantastic photographic opportunities.
Early morning, especially during sunrise, offers beautiful light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also provide good lighting before sunset.
Yes, smartphones are perfectly capable of capturing great photos and videos of your Manitou Incline experience. +1
Look for the iconic 'Manitou Incline' sign at the base, the endless staircase stretching upwards, and the expansive views from the summit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for outdoor adventures in the Manitou Springs area, consider exploring the Manitou Springs Incline Trail (the Barr Trail for descent), or other family-friendly hikes in the region that offer beautiful scenery without the extreme challenge of the Incline itself. Many local parks and trails provide more accessible options for younger adventurers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices near the trailhead. This simple step can significantly reduce your expenses. The challenge and the incredible views are the main attractions, and they come at no cost beyond your preparation and effort.
🏋️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating the Incline into a broader fitness regimen that includes stair climbing, interval training, and strength conditioning. The Barr Trail descent also provides an opportunity for a longer, more moderate cardio session. Remember to prioritize recovery and proper nutrition to maximize the benefits of this demanding activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Training for the Manitou Incline
In addition to dedicated stair workouts, regular hiking is crucial. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your hikes, paying attention to inclines. Some Redditors suggest incorporating interval training to mimic the bursts of effort required on the Incline. Remember, the goal is to build stamina and prepare your muscles for sustained effort over 2,768 steps.
Listen to your body throughout your training. Don't overdo it, and allow for adequate rest and recovery. Proper preparation will not only make the hike more enjoyable but also significantly reduce the risk of injury. Many find that even with training, the Incline is a tough but achievable goal.
The Incline Experience: What to Expect
Expect to encounter a wide range of fellow hikers, from seasoned athletes to those ticking off a bucket-list item. The atmosphere is often supportive, with people encouraging each other along the way. Be prepared for the sun to be intense, especially during summer months, so sunscreen and hydration are paramount.
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding Pikes Peak region. The descent is typically made via the Barr Trail, a more traditional hiking path that offers a scenic and less strenuous way back down. Remember, descending the Incline itself is prohibited.
Navigating Parking and Access
Alternatively, you can park in various lots around Manitou Springs and make your way to the trailhead. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services, though availability can vary. It's crucial to check the official Colorado Springs website for the most up-to-date information on parking regulations and shuttle schedules before your visit.
Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a parking spot or to catch the shuttle before it becomes too crowded. This proactive approach will help ensure a smoother start to your Incline adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit