Ready to conquer Colorado’s most infamous natural stairmaster? The iconic Manitou Incline isn’t just a hike—it’s a leg-burning, booty-blasting, lung-busting challenge that dares you to climb 2,768 steps straight up a mountain. The steps are about one mile in length and gain 1,950 ft of elevation which is comparable to climbing up the Empire State Building! The Manitou Incline starts at 6,600 ft and tops out at 8,550 ft. It is not pet-friendly.
Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or just here for the bragging rights, this quick guide will tell you everything you need to know before tackling the Incline.
The Manitou Incline is located in Manitou Springs near Colorado Springs.
If you haven’t worked out in a while, your legs will definitely feel this hike.
Manitou Incline Steps: How many steps is the Manitou Incline?
The incline has 2,768 steps and you can hike down the Barr Trail (3.5 miles) to the base if you want to save your knees the pain of taking the stairs down.
The steps can get very steep in certain sections. I took the stairs down where the Barr Trail connected with the Incline Steps at step 1800 and moving at a quicker pace, I stayed on my toes most of the time – my calves got quite the workout and were burning for days after.
Can a beginner do the Manitou Incline?
Yes, the steps are a great workout for hikers of all levels! There are a couple of areas you can bail if the steps become too strenuous and you want to hike down a gradual trail instead, or you can simply turn around on the steps and head down anytime. But I’d recommend taking your time to make it to the top — you can do it!
How long does it take to do Manitou Springs Incline?
They say the average person takes about 1 to 2 hours to hike the complete steps and 30 mins if you’re a seasoned incline climber or athlete. If you’re relatively fit though, it takes about an hour to hike up the steps. I was consistently moving and also on the first day of my period so I took many quick little breather breaks, but I got up in exactly an hour.
Hiking down the Manitou Incline steps will be faster than hiking the Barr Trail down and there are points of connection the trail meets up with the stairs if you want to change it up and do a little of each.
Manitou Incline Reservations: How much does Manitou Incline cost?
It is free to hike the steps but an advance online reservation is required! There is anywhere from 25-65 reservations available every half hour depending on when you go.
Manitou Incline Parking
There is no free parking at the base. It cost $10 (cash) and there are signs for fines if you park in the other lots or residential spots. However, there is a free shuttle you can take from downtown Manitou Springs to the incline. Route #33 runs all year round and picks you up at the east end of Memorial Park near the statue.
Manitou Springs is a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway, especially for those seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation. From hiking trails to natural mineral hot springs and art galleries to historical landmarks, there are plenty of things to do in Manitou Springs that cater to every interest.
Best Hotels in Manitou Springs
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Tiff, the owner and author of Follow Tiff’s Journey, is a California/ Colorado-based adventurer and outdoor connoisseur who divides her heart between the Eastern Sierra Mountains and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Despite her fear of heights, she’s become a seasoned mountaineer, ultralight hiking and backcountry camping enthusiast, expert road trip planner, and a fervent explorer of alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and sandstone canyons.
With 10 years of experience exploring the outdoors, her blog is your go-to source for all things wilderness, offering invaluable insights and pro tips, essential gear recommendations, and awe-inspiring stories from her adventures.
Join Tiff on her quest to share the wonders of nature and inspire others to follow their own path in the great outdoors.