Manitou Incline | Colorado Springs

The Manitou Incline is a steep, challenging hiking trail located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. It follows the path of an old cog railway bed up the side of Pikes Peak.

Visual Characteristics

The trail consists of approximately 2,744 steps constructed from railroad ties and ballast. The incline rises over 2,000 feet in elevation over a distance of about one mile. The surrounding vegetation is primarily Ponderosa pine forest, with rock outcroppings visible along the ascent.

Location & Access Logistics

The trailhead is located at 10 Old Ruxton Road, Manitou Springs, CO 80829. It is approximately 10 miles west of downtown Colorado Springs. Parking is available at the Hiawatha Garden of the Gods parking lot (3300 North 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904), with a free shuttle service operating to the trailhead. Public transport options to Manitou Springs are limited; the closest major airport is Colorado Springs Airport (COS).

Historical & Ecological Origin

The incline was originally the route of the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, built in 1889. The railway ceased operations in 2017. The trail itself is the former track bed, now a popular hiking challenge.

Key Highlights & Activities

Ascending the Manitou Incline is the primary activity. Hikers can track their progress using mile markers and step counts. Descending the incline is prohibited; hikers must use the Barr Trail for descent.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the trailhead. Shade is limited along the incline itself, with denser tree cover at the base and top. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent on the incline. No food vendors are present at the trailhead or on the incline; visitors should carry all necessary food and water.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh overhead sunlight. The best months for hiking are typically May through October, avoiding winter snow and ice. The incline is open year-round, but conditions can be hazardous in winter.

Facts & Legends

The Manitou Incline is known for its extreme gradient, with some sections reaching a 68% grade. A common visitor goal is to complete the ascent in under an hour.

Nearby Landmarks

• Garden of the Gods Park (1.5km Northeast)
• Miramont Castle Museum (0.8km West)
• The Broadmoor Seven Falls (4.2km Southeast)
• Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (4.8km Southwest)