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Manitou Incline Trailhead – Summit of the Manitou Incline loop from Manitou Springs

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Manitou Incline Trailhead – Summit of the Manitou Incline loop from Manitou Springs

Hard

3.3

(13)

hikers

Manitou Incline Trailhead – Summit of the Manitou Incline loop from Manitou Springs

05:30

14.3km

780m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: July 17, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Pike National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1.37 km

Manitou Incline Shuttle Parking (free shuttle to the Cog Railway and base of the Incline)

Highlight • Parking

This parking area provides a more cost-effective alternative to parking at the base of the Manitou Incline. A free shuttle operates every 30 minutes, transporting visitors to the Cog Railway and the base of the incline.

Tip by

3.57 km

Manitou Incline Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

This marks the beginning of the 2,768 steps, which will lead you through almost 2,000 feet of elevation change in less than a mile. The climb is extremely challenging, so it's essential to come prepared with appropriate footwear and plenty of water. Fun fact, the world record, held by Remi Bonnet, is 17 minutes and 25 seconds from first to last step.

It's important to note that a reservation is required to access the incline, and this is the location where you can check in before beginning your ascent. You can make a reservation at the following link: cityofcoloradosprings.aluvii.com/store/shop/productdetails?id=1&productId=1

Tip by

4.22 km

Northern Incline Return Trail at Step 1300

Highlight • Trail

At step 1300, you have the option to take a hard dirt trail back down rather than going down on the steps if you choose not to reach the summit. This offers a more gradual descent and an alternative route for those who prefer not to complete the entire climb.

Tip by

4.46 km

Manitou Incline Bailout Point (Barr Trail Intersection)

Highlight • Trail

This point is commonly known as the bailout spot, where Barr Trail intersects with the Incline. From here, you have approximately 1,000 more steps remaining, making it your final opportunity to exit the incline before reaching the summit.

Tip by

4.68 km

False Summit of the Manitou Incline

Highlight • Climb

Do not be fooled by the false summit ahead. Although it may appear to be the top as you ascend, remember that beyond this point, you still have another 500 steps to conquer. Stay determined and press on towards the true summit.

Tip by

4.90 km

Summit of the Manitou Incline

Highlight • Summit

Be prepared to take a few moments to catch your breath and recover when you reach the summit. Afterward, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of Colorado Springs and the Front Range. If you have the opportunity to start on an early ascent for sunrise, the additional effort will be rewarded.

Tip by

6.64 km

Viewpoint on Barr Trail

Highlight • Viewpoint

14.3 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.83 km

3.29 km

3.14 km

1.77 km

1.27 km

Surfaces

6.06 km

3.52 km

3.03 km

1.35 km

345 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (2,670 m)

Lowest point (1,900 m)

Weather

Tuesday 28 July

30°C

16°C

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Manitou Incline Trailhead – Summit of the Manitou Incline loop from Manitou Springs

Manitou Incline Shuttle Parking (free shuttle to the Cog Railway and base of the Incline)

Manitou Incline Trailhead

Northern Incline Return Trail at Step 1300

Manitou Incline Bailout Point (Barr Trail Intersection)

False Summit of the Manitou Incline

Summit of the Manitou Incline

Viewpoint on Barr Trail

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