it's all uphill from here
The Manitou Incline
Going up?
What to expect on the Manitou Incline
The crown jewel of outdoor recreation in Manitou Springs and referred to by locals as simply ‘the Incline’, this popular and strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart. It climbs over 2,000 vertical feet in less than a mile and sections as steep as 68% grade. Watch your steps; they range in size and height to keep you on—or knock you off—your toes. At the summit, the Incline Trail connects to Barr Trail, which offers a steep but scenic 3 mile path back down to the base. Downhill use of the Incline is strongly discouraged (can you imagine tripping down 2,744 steps?).
Reservations are required to hike the Manitou Incline
Are you ready for the Incline? If you are, click the button below to reserve a hiking time!
Open 6am-6pm
The neighbors thank you for keeping your voice down and for not starting your hike before 6 am.
Parking/shuttle
The best place to park when hiking the Incline is 10 Old Man's Trail and take the #33 Free Incline Shuttle. The shuttle runs seven days a week every 20 minutes from 6am-8am.
No dogs
Your dog did not sign up for this. Trust us, Rover will thank you for letting him sleep in. Really, we mean it—no dogs.
Tips from local Incliners
Take your time
Don’t worry about how long it takes, and if you need to stop at the cutoff, it’s ok. Let your body tell you what you can or cannot do. —Suzette K.
This way up
Walking back down the steps is tempting, it looks like it might be quicker. Don’t do it. —Elizabeth K.
Bring water
Get a hydration backpack so you aren’t carrying anything, some of the steps are tricky and you’ll need your hands free. —Keri W.
Don't look up…
If you stop, look down to see how far you’ve come. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring water. And remember the false summit. —Helen R.
