Manitou Springs, Colorado

I have dreamed of hiking the Manitou Incline steps in Manitou Springs, Colorado for several years (I think it is pronounced manna-too). Josh and I were recently in Colorado Springs for a conference. Hiking the Incline was at the top of our list of things to do in the area. It did not disappoint!

Here is what you need to know if you would like to give the Manitou Incline a try:

You must have a ticket.

Grab a free reservation here. Reservations are easily made online through the City of Colorado Springs. Be sure to bring confirmation either on your phone or printed as they will ask for it when you arrive.

Stop for a potty break before you start the hike.

There are port-a-potties near the check-in table. Be sure to make use of these. You will drink a lot of water. It is a long hike. There is no privacy along the trail. You’ll thank me later.

It is difficult.

There are approximately 2,744 steps. Some of them are quite steep. I recommend training for this hike. We passed people of all ages and fitness levels on the trail, but it takes a lot of mental fortitude even if your body is in good physical condition. It is a fitness challenge and it is no joke! It took us about one hour and fifty minutes to reach the top.

• Is it kid-friendly? I did not see any children under the age of 10. I think it is best suited for older kids that can scale the steps unassisted.
• Should I take my kids? Consider their age, attitude, and fitness level. It is NOT a trail that you can take turns carrying a child on your shoulders. It is steep and you do not want to fall. Our 8 year old would probably do well as he is tall enough to do the steps without aid, maintains a positive mindset throughout challenges, and is accustomed to long hikes. My older kids (10+) would love it and enjoy the challenge. Our 5-year-old would probably struggle as many of the steps are the height of 2-3 stacked railroad ties and his max distance on hikes is about 3 miles.
• What if it is too difficult for me? There are three bailout points before you reach the top. If you need to quit, you can access the Northern Incline Return Trail at Step 395 or Step 1300 and access the Barr Trail at Step 1800.

Come prepared, but don’t overdo it.

Always check trail conditions prior to your arrival. While ascending the incline, I could feel every ounce of weight in my daypack and it felt heavier with every step. Seriously, these steps are intense! Be thoughtful about what you pack and how you dress.

• Trail Runners are the shoe of choice. I wore my favorite trail runners. I think it’s important to wear a lightweight shoe that has a good grippy sole for traction. For me, hiking boots would have been way too heavy and uncomfortable. Microspikes or yaktrax may be needed after snowfall as the shady portions of the trail tend to get icy in winter or early spring. We purchased these on Amazon.
• Pack light. If something is not necessary, don’t bring it. Be sure to have plenty of water, a couple of snacks, your ID, phone, and maybe lip balm or a few bandaids. I carried bottles of water but I highly recommend using a lightweight hydration backpack like this one from Camelbak.
• Apply sunscreen before you hit the trail. All of the incline steps are in the sun. Apply it and then leave it in the car. Remember, only carry the essentials.
• Dress in layers and appropriately for the weather. It was 57 degrees and sunny on the day we hiked and we worked up a sweat. Depending on weather, you may want an extra long sleeve shirt or waterproof jacket. Descending on Barr Trail is mostly shady and can get chilly in cooler weather. I wore an extra fleece layer on the way down but carried an unused puffy coat in my backpack the entire day that I regretted not leaving in our vehicle. If it is super cold, you will likely need gloves. I used my hands quite a bit for balance in some of the steeper sections. If you go in warm weather, wear light weight and light colored clothing as it will get HOT. Layers help as the temperature changes.

Take your time on the ascent.

If you are a flatlander like me, you may get lapped multiple times by local extreme athletes, but know that the most important thing is your health and safety. We came across many different types of people along the trail. Most everyone was encouraging. One hiker was barefoot and carrying a guitar! Another guy was finishing his fourth Incline hike of the day. One step at a time gets you to the top. Take your time, and enjoy the views and the interesting folks you will meet along the way.

Barr Trail is the way down.

Do not go down the steps. I think it’s around 4 miles in total. Barr Trail is easy, well-maintained, and has great views. Head to your left at the top of the steps to access the trail. As long as you follow the switchbacks, we found the trail easy to follow and well-marked.

Grab a tasty lunch in Manitou Springs.

This town is so cute! After our hike, we both enjoyed the Incline Burger at Manitou Brewing Company. The food was delicious and we loved the option of dining outdoors. There are so many wonderful restaurants in Manitou Springs and I suspect they are all quite friendly to incline hikers.

Park in town and ride the shuttle.

Parking in Manitou Springs is paid by credit card and the system sends you text messages to easily add extra time if needed. We parked at the year round shuttle parking near Memorial Park. The shuttle was quick and easy. We did have to walk up the hill from downtown as the shuttle was not going all the way up to the incline the morning we were there. If you are going early in the morning, you may be able to score a paid street parking spot downtown. The street parking near the incline is reserved for residents only. There is a paid cash-only lot near the steps, but it has limited hours and if you want to spend time in town you will have to walk back uphill afterwards. Trust me, you do NOT want to walk back uphill afterwards! Park in one of the city lots and ride the shuttle. It is most convenient.

Have you hiked the Manitou Incline? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.