Manitou Incline — Attraction in Colorado Springs

IMPORTANT things to know before going: *High altitude start (around 6600' at the base). Those coming from lower elevation should seriously take a few days to acclimate. Altitude sickness is no joke! *Steep & uneven terrain! Some stairs are 8" deep and 14"+ tall. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear & are prepared to climb, not just "walk stairs" as there is a high risk of falling. *Incredibly steep incline! You are ascending almost 2000' in a mile. It is an extremely intense cardio. Make sure you are in shape and know your limitations.

Now onto the review: Wow! This was incredible! Definitely difficult, but doable and so worth it! Took just under 3 hours round trip (up a mile incline, down the 3.5 mile Barr Trail).

There is a free shuttle (parking costs) that takes you to the trailhead. Busses come about every 5 minutes. The parking lot is near Hiawatha Street.

I recommend starting early, by sunrise your back is getting full sun & it can get hot fast. Wear sunscreen so you don't get fried. There are places to step off to the side & catch your breath in some shade.

Take your time, enjoy the incline! It's just over 1 mile, straight up!! The first part isn't too steep and gives you a sense of confidence, but come the second half, especially the last 700, it is so steep in some spots you're using your hands to climb (felt more like climbing a ladder). Stairs are uneven, in depth and height so make sure to wear good sneakers or hiking boots & stay attentive.

Bring enough water & snacks for a strenuous hike, but don't over pack. I took hiking poles but didn't use them. Others had them & used them.

There are 4 bail out points, and they are positioned perfectly. The first (around 300 stairs) & second (around 600) are there, but we didn't even give a thought because we felt confident in the incline. The third is at 1300 and by that point it is starting to get steeper, but you're halfway and can keep going. The last one is at 1800 and the perfect spot to say, "I only have 1000 more to go. I can make it to the top." It's also right where the false summit comes into view. Don't get discouraged though, the real summit is not far after that (about 400 stairs or so).

There are metal markers every 100 stairs which was so helpful and encouraging, knowing how far you'd come and how far you have left.

Take the Barr Trail down to avoid injury or accident, or upsetting uphill hikers. Plus the trail is beautiful with stunning views of the valley.

The best part was the people hiking (and summiting of course). Everyone is so friendly and encouraging, whether it's their daily workout or the first time attempting. People at the top are cheering for you whether you know them or not.

If you're thinking of attempting it, do it! Don't be afraid,...

Manitou Incline - Today (Apr 6 2019) was my first time climbing 2,744 steps to reach the top scenic view of Manitou Springs. Holy moly what an experience! Not only did we climb 2,744 incline step going to the top but we also took the trail while going down just to experience the beauty of this place surrounded by a lot of mountains. I'm not sure but I think you can see the top view of the Pike Peaks which is very visible once you reach the top of this Manitou Incline. However one of the hikers told me that there's a 13 mile trail from Manitou Incline to reach Pike Peaks. I don't think I will ever make it there but I wish you all the best in your future accomplishments should you plan to do so. Well let's get back to Manitou Incline, it was one of the best things to do in Colorado. If you are wondering how many hours it would take for an average person to reach the top view let me tell you some things about this specific topic. As mentioned above this is my first time doing this, I have seen and met many people while climbing these steps. I talked to many people on their way down. Here's some info, there's an old guy (he sure looks more than 60) who did it in 59 min, middle aged woman took 2hr 15 min, Roxy the puppy accomplished this feat in 1hr 48min along with his owner. Two couples look like they hike a lot did it in 50 min. Lastly, I finished it in 1hr 35min(my first time). Upon talking to most people I came to understand that it's all about experience and practice. If you are going there first time just start slow and steady, keep an eye on your pace while climbing these steps. Rest a lot but don't take rest until your pace rate becomes zero. One of the important things to know is to balance our pace rate while doing this feat. of course everyone takes breaks to rest but taking too much rest is not gonna help you finish this in my opinion. You should just take rest for a bit have some water/electrolytes/Gatorade/whatever you take just take it then resume it. It should be like Play-Pause-Resume but not like Play-Stop-Start agaib. Remember slow and steady always wins the race. Trust me people in general other climbers will always chat, talk, play songs, share some jokes until you reach the top. I had a lot of fun. I hope you will have a great time while doing this feat. Best of luck. I also uploaded a couple of photos just for your reference. For your information there is a guy who lives close to this place reportedly he achieved this feat in 27 min and holds a...

Five-Star Google Review for the Manitou Incline "The Hardest Steps Lead to the Best Stories"

The Manitou Incline isn’t just a hike—it’s a journey into your own grit and determination. You’ll face 2,768 steps that climb straight into the sky, but what you’ll gain goes way deeper. Standing at the base, it feels impossible. But at the summit, with trembling legs and a full heart, you realize not only that you’re capable of the climb—you’re capable of so much more.

This isn’t just about reaching the top. It’s about the person you become on the way there. The Incline taught me lessons I’ll never forget:

10 Things I Learned About the Climb:

The first steps are a trick. It starts easier than expected, but the real challenge soon kicks in. False summits test you. Just like in life, thinking you’re “almost there” only to realize you have further to go builds resilience. Your mind tries to quit before your body. Ignore it. You’re stronger than you know. Small steps create big momentum. Plan your next 10 steps, not your last 1,000. Humans thrive in connection. Strangers become allies, with high-fives and words of encouragement along the way. Breathe intentionally. Calm breaths help you reset—and remind you to keep moving. It’s not about speed. Whether you reach the top in 30 minutes or three hours, you win just by finishing. Your progress is worth admiring. Looking back on how far you’ve come fuels you to keep going. Nature inspires more than achievement. In between the struggle, stop to take in the beauty of the pines and the view of Pikes Peak. The summit isn’t the reward—you are. What you learn about your strength, determination, and willpower sticks with you long after the climb is over.

Beginner Tips for the Incline: Register online for a time slot.** It’s required, helpful, and ensures your spot. Start early to avoid the heat and the crowds. Hydrate, stretch, and wear real hiking shoes. Breaks are totally okay—rest when you need to, but keep moving forward. Consider the Barr Trail for an easier descent.

The Manitou Incline is demanding, but nothing worth conquering comes easy. If you’re ready for a challenge that will leave you inspired, humbled, and proud, this is your climb.

Five stars—and a once-in-a-lifetime...