Manitou Incline in Manitou Colorado
Denise at the Summit of the Manitou Incline
Denise Solo Hiked this one and it's a stairway to the sky, a gauntlet of grit, and a rite of passage for Colorado hikers. The Manitou Incline is a brute of a trail—a mile-long, 2,768-step assault on the side of a mountain that gains nearly 2,000 feet in elevation. Most people who attempt it don't come out the same, and those who finish have more than just a workout story to tell. Here’s what it’s like to conquer the legendary Manitou Incline.
From the moment you step onto the first railroad tie, the challenge is clear. The trail doesn't meander; it goes straight up, with an average grade of 45% and some sections as steep as 68%. The relentless ascent is both physically and mentally taxing, pushing your legs, lungs, and resolve to their limits.
The altitude, with the base starting at 6,530 feet, adds another layer of difficulty, especially for visitors who haven't had time to acclimate. The air thins, and every step becomes a conscious effort. It’s not just a hike; it's a test of will.
Just when you feel like you can't go on, you'll spot it—what looks like the end of the trail. This is the infamous "false summit," and it has broken many a spirit. It’s a cruel psychological trick, lulling you into a false sense of security before revealing that there are still 300 more steps to go. This is the point where the steepest part of the climb begins, demanding a final push of courage and strength.
After what feels like an eternity, the final step arrives, and the view is your reward. The panorama from the summit, at 8,550 feet, is nothing short of breathtaking. The entire landscape unfolds beneath you, offering sweeping views of Manitou Springs, the city below, and the surrounding mountains. The sense of accomplishment is profound, a feeling earned through sweat, sore muscles, and sheer determination.
The journey isn't over at the top. The descent is a 3-mile hike down the winding Barr Trail, a scenic route that offers a reprieve for your knees after the intense climb. This beautiful, forested trail is a pleasant change of pace, and it gives you a different perspective of the mountainside. The final stretch back to the base offers time to reflect on the accomplishment and the incredible experience.
