Manitou Incline 2027: Reservations, Parking and a Local's Tips

Free reservations are still required. Here's where to park, the new winter hours, how long it really takes, and how to get down safely. From a longtime local.

Last Updated October 2026

The hardest mile in Colorado Springs, from someone who’s climbed it for 20 years.

I first heard about the Manitou Incline from another mom at my daughter's nursery school. I was training for marathons, and she said it was the best leg workout in town.

That was the early 2000s, back when the Incline was rusted pipe, broken railroad ties, and a sign that said hike at your own risk.

Twenty years later, I still climb it.

The steps are rebuilt, the crowds are bigger, and the rules have changed more than once. This guide covers what you need to know right now: reservations, parking, hours, and what each third of the climb actually feels like.

Still climbing it in 2026, twenty years after my first time up.

Quick Facts

  • Distance: 0.9 miles up

  • Steps: 2,768 (city count)

  • Elevation gain: about 2,000 feet, from 6,500 to 8,590 feet

  • Steepest grade: 68%

  • Time: 1 to 2 hours for most hikers; locals 30 to 50 minutes

  • Reservation: officially required (free, with a waiver), but not checked; most locals skip it

  • Hours: 6am to 6pm May through October; 6am to 3pm November through April

  • Best parking: Dillon Mobility Hub, $5 a day, with shuttle access

  • Dogs: not allowed

  • Way down: Barr Trail, about 3 miles. Never down the steps.

Where is the Manitou Incline?

Built on the side of Pikes Peak, 0.9 mile extreme outdoor workout attracts Olympians, ultrarunners, the athletic tourist and adventure hiker, making the Manitou Incline one of Colorado Springs premier challenge hikes.

These famous, or should we say infamous stairs in Colorado Springs are ranked as one of Colorado’s hardest hikes, located minutes from Manitou Springs breweries and restaurants. *Technically the Colorado incline is in Manitou Springs.

Love a challenging hike? Consider summiting nearby Mount Rosa.

Do you need a reservation for the Manitou Incline?

Officially, yes. Realistically, almost nobody books one.

The City of Colorado Springs requires a free reservation and an online waiver, but no one checks at the base, and most regulars stopped booking long ago.

The system is part of an ongoing back and forth between Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs over crowds and parking. If you want to go by the book, book on the City of Colorado Springs Incline page. Next month's slots open on the 1st.

Your time slot is a 30 minute arrival window, not a time limit. Take as long as you need on the climb. Groups max out at 8 people.

LOCAL TIP! Grabbing a free slot takes two minutes and covers you if enforcement ever comes back. Parking is the rule that actually gets enforced, so put your planning energy there.

Manitou Incline hours

  • May 1 to October 31: 6am to 6pm

  • November 1 to April 30: 6am to 3pm

The Incline is closed outside these hours, and closes now and then for races and maintenance. Check the city page before you drive over.

LOCAL TIP! People live right next to the trailhead. Keep car doors quiet and alarms off, especially at 6am.

How many steps are on the Manitou Incline?

The Incline has 2,768 steps, by the city's count. They climb about 2,000 feet in 0.9 miles, from 6,500 to 8,590 feet, with grades up to 68%.

Tackling this steep ascent is a true test of endurance and determination.

Marked as an official trail in 2013, the Manitou Incline has become a rite of passage for the adventurous visitor to Colorado Springs.

It is home base for local athletes, training ground for the Pikes Peak racer and badge of honor for the hiker.

BOOK YOUR FREE MANITOU INCLINE RESERVATION HERE

How hard is it to hike the Manitou Incline?

Most hikers reach the top in 1 to 2 hours. Plan about 3 hours round trip, including the walk down Barr Trail.

The Incline is rated difficult and for good reason! Starting at 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) and ending at 8,590 feet (2,620 meters), the Incline is an almost straight shot of about 2,750 steps.

For those wondering just how long is Manitou Incline in miles - that would be 0.9 miles!

About ¾ of the way up, after the steepest grade of 68%, many people feel they have reached the top – only to find that they have in fact reached the "False Summit." 

The Manitou Incline in Colorado is 500 feet taller than the Empire State building.

The Incline has become quite the tourist destination. You should be in good physical condition before attempting this hike!

Do not discount the altitude and Manitou Incline elevation changes.

If you feel dizzy and disoriented, turn around and head down immediately! In winter months, you must have proper traction for the icy steps near the top.

NOTE! Do not go into this Manitou Incline hike lightly. It is not a simple one mile sea level hike.

Can a beginner do the Manitou Incline?

Yes, if you're healthy, patient, and willing to turn around. It's rated hard: the air is thin, there's no shade, and the steepest pitch comes right before a false summit.

Having done the Manitou Incline Colorado hike repeatedly for over twenty years, my best answer is “probably.”

As with any hike, know your physical limits, wear the right gear, check the weather, hydrate and fuel correctly and take your time. Climbing the Manitou Incline steps is a rigorous activity.

This is a no nonsense, extreme hike! In winter, there are snow and ice covered steps. Summer months are hot, with no shade. Check out these beginner hiking tips to help get you on the path.

Two bailouts, at step 396 and step 1300, let you head down early.

How long does it take to hike the Manitou Incline?

As a local who started climbing the Manitou Incline in the early 2000’s, before its more recent repairs and popularity, my response is “it depends.”

While maybe not the answer you want to hear, how long it takes to hike the Manitou Incline is subjective for many reasons.

The Manitou Incline elevation is tough but the views are worth it!

If you’re a sea level dweller, the altitude for Colorado Springs will be one of your biggest enemies on the Manitou Incline.

The hike begins at 6,500’ above sea level and goes up from there.

It’s easy to find Manitou Incline Colorado records. A new trend, the Inclinathon has made news. This marathon of sorts is when hikers repeat the climb as many times as possible within 24 hours.

For the average hiker, it takes between 1 to 2 hours to get to the top of the Manitou Incline.

When I was hiking the Manitou Springs Incline weekly, I averaged 35 minutes from the base to the top. I consider myself fit and have lived at this altitude for almost 30 years. Most days I get to the top between 40-50 minutes.

Where to park for the Manitou Incline

There are a few options for Manitou Incline parking.

Park at the Dillon Mobility Hub ($5 a day) or Hiawatha Gardens, then ride the free shuttle. You can't park in the Barr Trail lot or on Ruxton Avenue.

There is no free parking near the Incline. The Incline starts at the top of Ruxton Avenue in Manitou Springs, about 15 minutes west of downtown Colorado Springs.

  • Dillon Mobility Hub (134 Manitou Ave). The city's preferred lot. $5 for the day, open 5am to 6pm, restrooms on site. Ride the bus to the Duck Stop, then catch the free Incline shuttle.

  • Hiawatha Gardens (10 Old Man's Trail). Newly renovated in 2026 with permanent restrooms. Pay at the meter and keep your receipt. The free shuttle leaves from the Duck Stop next door, 6am to 6pm.

  • Iron Springs Chateau (444 Ruxton Ave). The closest lot. $15 for 4 hours, cash only, first come first served.

LOCAL TIP! Skip the shuttle line and walk the 1.3 miles from Hiawatha up Ruxton. Call it your warm up.

Can you bring a dog on the Manitou Incline?

No. Dogs aren't allowed on the Incline, not even in a backpack. The steps are steep, crowded, and fully exposed to the sun, and there's no water on the way up. Keep Scooby at home, or take your pup on Barr Trail instead, on leash.

Hiker climbing the old Manitou Incline railroad ties in the early 2000s

Manitou Incline prior to a multi million dollar facelift.

Manitou Incline history

In 1907, the Manitou Incline in Colorado was built as a railway to haul construction materials to a nearby hydroelectric plant. A certain Dr. B (Brumback was his name) bought it several years later, turning this workhorse into a roller coaster ride. The tourists and residents alike loved this terrifying 16 minute ride up the Colorado incline.

In 1923, Colorado Springs mogul Spencer Penrose bought the Manitou Incline ride, making it a posh attraction with fine dining options. Touted as a fantastic date night (or so we surmise), Manitou Incline reservations got people up this fancy ride.

The incline Manitou Springs had was officially closed down in 1990, quickly becoming a secret ultrarunner workout for local Colorado Springs groups.

Taking on the Manitou stairs one at a time *early 2000s

Heading up the old Incline, early 2000s

In the early 2000s, Manitou Springs Incline was a true “HIKE AT YOUR OWN RISK” trail with rusted pipes and foot wide gaps in the rail ties.

In February 2013, the Manitou Incline became a recognized legal trail.

2014 brought a major facelift to the Manitou Incline, turning it from a “one shot away from tetanus disaster” to a smooth but still very challenging staircase Colorado is now famous for.

How do you get down from the Manitou Incline?

Not down the steps.

The city prohibits it, and with hundreds of people climbing toward you, it is the fastest way to hurt yourself or someone else. Take Barr Trail, about 3.5 miles of switchbacks back to Ruxton Avenue. (Then keep your Connector Trail and Scenic Route directions as they are.)

Bail out points

  • Step 396: cut over to the Ute Pass trail, about 1/3 mile back to the base.

  • Step 1300, the Bailout bench: the halfway mark. The Ute Pass trail takes you about 1.5 miles back down.

There is no shame in turning around. Search and rescue here is all volunteer, and they are busy enough.

Manitou Incline Rules and Trail Etiquette

Due to the popularity of the Manitou Incline, you can expect to encounter several other hikers coming down as you ascend these Manitou stairs. In order to ensure a pleasant experience for all, it is important that you follow appropriate trail etiquette.

PLUS, as a local who regularly hikes the Incline, Colorado newbies stand out!

Blend in by following a few simple tips when tackling these famous stairs in Colorado Springs.

  • Technically uphill ALWAYS has right of way on the trail. However, on the Manitou Incline, people come crashing down the steps, eager to smash records or grab a post climb brew.

    *Manitou Incline official rules are to go up the incline and down Barr trail. This rule is broken hourly with hikers sprinting down the Incline steps.

  • Hiking down Barr Trail, yield to downhill traffic. Step aside to let runners pass if they need it.

  • Keep your music to yourself - bring and wear earbuds.

  • Be mindful of other hikers is key to making everyone’s hike up the Manitou Incline more enjoyable!

  • Keep Scooby at home. No dogs allowed on the Manitou Incline.

  • Don’t park at Barr Trail Parking lot. It’s only for those on Manitou Springs hikes. As with surrounding Manitou Springs hikes, the weather on this Colorado incline varies.

Enjoying the Manitou Incline view from top

What to wear on the Manitou Incline

You’ll need to check the weather before you go. Colorado weather changes frequently, even in the summer. Expect icy conditions on this Colorado Springs incline climb in winter months. The middle section of this hike is completely exposed to sun and wind.

Bring a jacket to enjoy the Manitou Incline view from top - it is windy up there most days, no matter the time of year you hike this beast.

Winter hiking on the Incline Manitou Springs

  • Traction is key. Clip on a pair of microspikes, yaktrax, or “screw shoes” *Melody loves Kahtoolas for the Incline.

  • Layer up. Halfway through the climb you’ll be sweating. At the summit, the wind can get strong making that sweat turn into goosebumps in a hurry.

  • Barr Trail, canopied with large trees on either side, is often icy and snow covered all winter long. It can be a slip and slide the whole way down.

summer hiking on these colorado steps

  • Cover up with sunscreen and a hat.

  • Bring at least 24 oz water.

  • Low top gaiters (like these) keep gravel and small pebbles out.

year round gear

  • Headlamp for sunrise or sunset hike

  • Bring a windproof layer for the top of the incline

  • Small daypack/Fanny pack to stash your keys and energy bar

  • TELL SOMEONE where you’ll be and when you expect to be back.

Make sure to pack essential hiking gear for a day hike IF you plan on spending longer on Barr Trail. If this is your first time climbing the Manitou Incline, brush up on these beginner hiking tips

OUR GO-TO GEAR FOR COLORADO HIKING TRAILS IN 2027:

Osprey's Packfinder Tool

Head up this deceptively steep road to the Manitou Incline

What to expect on the climb

Where do i Start my hike up the manitou INCLINE?

From Manitou Springs town parking lots, follow Ruxton Avenue to a small asphalt road to the right, just before the Cog Railroad building.

LOCAL TIP! The free shuttle drops you off at Iron Chateau. Head to the right, up a few set of stairs and cross the street.

Head up a very short steep hill to the Broadmoor Basecamp building.

In the summer, this is open to sell Incline gear, souvenirs and snacks.

You’ll see a series of porta potties

USE THEM.

There is nowhere to go to the bathroom when hiking these famous Colorado stairs.

To the right of the potties, take the trail leading to the Incline base.

Grab a few pictures at the bottom of the Incline before you start up. If music helps you move, pop in those earbuds and stick to the right side of the Incline!

Hiking the first third of the incline Colorado style

Your adrenaline will be running, making you want to go fast on the Incline.

WORD OF CAUTION - DON’T!

The first 1000 or so steps are fairly simple to hike, mimicking regular stairs. It’s easy to get moving, burning a lot of energy.

GO SLOW!

Use the first part of hiking the Incline to get your cadence. Keep your steps even and regular. It’s easy to go faster. Trust us, you’ll regret it in the middle section.

When you see the No Dogs on the Incline sign, the elevation kicks up. The steps are not so wide, making it hard to keep a regular rhythm as hikers come down.

While it’s tempting to keep your head down, try to look up every few steps. On busy summer days, you must watch for the downhill runners. As you continue up, you’ll start asking just how long is Manitou incline going to take! It’s a short but long hike - an oxymoron considering the entire hike is just under 1 mile.

LOCAL TIP! Step to the right side for breaks and snap some pictures. It’s easy to stop right where you are as your heart pounds out of its chest.

Please, for the love of everyone behind you, MOVE TO THE RIGHT! You will stand out as an incline newbie if you don’t.

Rest break at the Bailout on this Manitou Springs stair climb

Tackling the Middle Third Incline Colorado Brags about

By step 1300, you might be swearing, “Dang Manitou Incline, how many steps are left?!” Your goal on this section is the BAILOUT!

You’ll know it’s the bailout when you spot a bench and trail to the left. Get there and know you are halfway to the top! WHOOP! This is a great time to take an extended break.

Sit down. Eat a high energy snack.

Get ready because the top third is STEEP, narrow and steady. If you have a fear of heights, DON’T LOOK DOWN.

I tackle the set of narrow steps as I would a stair climber, counting sets of ten on one side before switching to the other foot leading.

incline-bailout-sign.jpg

IF YOU FEEL FAINT OR TOO TIRED, BAIL OUT! The connector trail to Barr Trail is 1 1/2 miles from the base of the Incline. There is no shame in coming back to try again.

Step 2000 marks the toughest section. False summit ahead!

LOCAL TIP! Should anything happen, calling Search and Rescue is expensive and time consuming. PLEASE KNOW YOUR PHYSICAL LIMITS!

Conquering the colorado incline

The last third of the Incline is challenging. Right after the bailout, you’ll begin up a series of narrow steps. Looking up, the top seems near.

THERE IS A FALSE SUMMIT! As you take the last set of narrow steps, you’ll come over the edge and see the actual summit.

Take heart. Altitude in Colorado Springs will make this portion challenging. Maintain a consistent pace and take rest breaks. That should get you to the finish line.

LOCAL TIP! Stop about 20 steps from summit and turn around. Take in the Manitou Incline view from top, spotting Garden of the Gods rising from the valley floor and Manitou Springs town in the foreground.

Manitou Incline view from top

Manitou Incline View from top

YOU DID IT! Stop and catch your breath, hit off your watch and get a picture. Unless you’re hiking this on a very wintry snow packed day, there will be at least one person to take it for you!

One of my favorite things to do is stop and chat with the Incline finishers. You run into the most amazing people at the top of the Incline.

I’ve seen groups of military conditioning, soccer teams on a training hike, and weekly hikers who always come at the same time, same day.

Once you’ve arrived at the top, all the muttering and sputtering about how many steps is the Manitou Incline actually goes away.

During the hike, it feels like a million steps, but afterwards, the glow of conquering such a beast of a trail makes it all worth it!

And who knows? You might find yourself saying, just like the rest of us, “I’m ready to do that again!”

Manitou Incline Tips

Snowy trail at the Manitou Incline summit leading to Barr Trail

Incline summit in winter

  • Make a plan and stick with it

    Stop every 30 steps. Pick a spot, hike to it, rest, repeat.

  • Budget total hike time

    Plan at least 3 hours roundtrip.

    Athletes and locals tend to summit between 30 minutes to 1 hour. Manitou Incline average time for the regular hiker is least 90 minutes to two hours from base to the top.

  • Breathe

  • Take small sips of water

    Save the Nalgene glugging for the top. Hydrate no matter how hot or cold you are.

  • Have a mantra

    I can. I will. I did.

  • Take one step at a time

  • Take breaks

    This hike is about you, not the people around you.

  • Go SLOW

    The tortoise truly wins on this extreme hike. 

  • ADD ON to your hike

    Consider taking an extra hour to head up Barr Trail a bit. Pine trees and aspens flank the trail.

In summer months, wildflowers are abundant. In the fall, you walk through groves of orange and red aspens. About a mile from the connector trail, find a beautiful little creek to rest before turning around.

  • use the bathrooms before you start

Trust us on this one. Emergency bathroom break = no privacy at all!

  • Slow hikers stay to the right

  • Be aware of your surrounding

Earbuds are fine. People hike at different speeds. This is one trail you don’t want to be surprised on.

Incline Stair Techniques: success to the top

Rest Step

Rest Step

As you step forward on a climb, lock your rear knee and keep all of your weight on that rear leg.

As you're swinging your other leg forward, relax the muscles in that leg.

Double Step

Double step

Take a step up and meet it with your other foot.

You’ll have both feet on one step before you head to the next one. Once your forward foot comes to rest on the ground, keep it relaxed so that there's no weight on it.

Hands on Thighs. and Knees Step

Walk with Hands on Thighs and Knees

This technique is both effective and energy-efficient. By moving this way you use your arms to push down on your knees and thighs.

You get extra power to push down towards the ground and more power to propel forwards. Lean your upper body forward – getting into this position makes it easier to take in deep breaths.

incline-connector-trail-hikers.jpg

How to get down from the Manitou Incline

Well marked signs tell you where to go for Barr Trail

OPtion 1: The Connector Trail

Once you get to the top of the Manitou Incline, look left. You’ll see the well marked trail taking you to Barr Trail. This trail has been updated recently, making it impossible to miss!

PLEASE STAY ON THE TRAIL! You’ll arrive at a set of steps. Take a hard left to connect to Barr Trail.

Option 2: The Scenic Route

At summit, head straight ahead looking for concrete building ruins. Veer slightly right and take the upper trail between a set of trees. If you are heading downhill, you are on the WRONG path.

Trek uphill for around a quarter mile spotting large boulders along the right of the trail.

Round the corner and you’ll see several rocks on your left. Look straight ahead for a magnificent view of Pikes Peak’s summit.

You can spot the newly renovated summit house on top.

Wander down the path and you’ll arrive at Barr Trail. Turn left to go down.

Want more mileage?

Once you get to Barr Trail, head right. At this point in the trail, you’re 5 miles from Barr Camp, 8 miles from A Frame and 11 miles from Pikes Peak summit.

Red Mountain trailhead

Red Mountain Trail: a warm up hike near the Incline

4.5 miles | 1,161’ elevation gain | Out & Back

If you’re in the area and looking for a great training hike before tackling the Manitou Incline, or just want a different view of it, try the Red Mountain Trail. The trailhead is only minutes away from the Manitou Incline trailhead. You can park in town and use the same shuttle system to access this hike.

Expect some steps, though nothing like the Incline. The trail has a few spurs that allow you to add mileage (as we did). In the winter months, wear spikes as some sections are steep and can get slippery.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a beautiful stream flowing beside parts of the trail. The top section is rocky, but the views are worth it. This is a perfect hike to help acclimate if you’re visiting from out of town!

Hiker climbing the steep steps of the Manitou Incline

What type of Manitou Incline hiker are you?

The Tourist

Your goal is simple: Plug in the headphones, set the beats and get to the top. You take the obligatory Instagram picture, post to social media and run down Barr trail.

The Endurance Hiker

The Manitou Incline is Nature’s Stair climber. Regularly adding this quad burner, butt busting strength routine to your weekly exercise is the goal. You are on the Incline for through hike training, marathon racing hill workouts, and mountain climbing expeditions.

The Lookee Loo Hiker

The views are spectacular as you head up the 2,744 steps. The Lookee Loo likes to take the climb slowly, turning around often to take in the 180-degree views of Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods

The Socialite Hiker

You love hiking with other people. You love stopping on the way, chatting up the huffing puffing hiker next to you. Your number one goal is being part of Colorado’s nature and hiking community.

The Record Holder

You want to beat the record. It’s an ambitious goal. The records are changing daily. Join Friends of the Incline for most recent Incline records. Not only are hikers summiting this crazy Colorado Springs incline climb multiple times at day, they are breaking records pregnant, pushing peanuts and other crazy antics.

No matter what type of Manitou Incline hiker you are, hiking stairs in Colorado Springs will teach you a few lessons about yourself. Keep an open mind and be willing to learn like I did.

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My Manitou Incline lessons with a few views on the side.

Hiker on the Challenge Hill stairs at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock

Challenge Hill Castle Rock, Colorado

Train for the Incline: two mini inclines near Denver

If the Mac Daddy of all Inclines stresses you out, check out these two mini inclines within 40 miles of Colorado Springs and Denver.

Between 130 and 200 steps each, these family friendly trails offer great views and a solid workout while letting everyone, at every fitness level, hike together.

Tanya tackling Challenge Hill in Castle Rock

Challenge Hill in Castle Rock

This incline is perfect for an extreme outdoor workout. Throw in a few burpees at the top, do a few jumping jacks and head back down. Repeat for a buns busting workout.

Castle Rock Mini Incline at a Glance

  • Location: Challenge Hill, Philip S. Miller Park, Castle Rock
  • The Climb: 200 steps up Challenge Hill
  • Loop Distance: 0.6 mile total (climb plus a ½ mile trail back down)
  • Views: Devil's Head to the west, Pikes Peak to the south, the Rockies and the valley beyond the highway
  • Drive Time: About 30 minutes from North Colorado Springs or South Denver
  • More Trails: 7 miles of well marked trails in the park
  • Kid Bonus: Ninja style playground across from the Incline

You have a great outdoor workout, dead set between North Colorado Springs and South Denver (about a 30 minute drive either way.)  

Head back up again, adding training miles to your legs. Feel free to explore some of the other 7 miles of well-marked trails. Or better yet, take the kids to the Ninja style playground across from the Incline while you rest.

View from the top of Challenge Hill in Castle Rock

Parking and Trailhead Information

Take interstate 25 south from Denver to the town of Castle Rock, exiting at Wilcox/Wolfensberger exit, taking a right onto Wolfensberger.

At the roundabout, go around and take the left-hand exit (3rd option on the roundabout) onto West Plum Creek Parkway. Go 0.7 mile on West Plum Creek Parkway and the Phillip S. Miller Park entrance will be on the right.

Incline parking is on the left.

Family Fun Day Option

Check out the Adventure Park on site.

  • field house with turf fields

  • batting cages and a golf simulator

  • trampoline play area and pool

  • 10 of the area’s longest and fastest zip lines

  • three-story ropes course

Nearby Hikes

  • Castle Rock Park

    Free. Kid Friendly. Dogs Allowed. Easy 1.3 mile loop hike. Hiking Cred: Hiked “that crazy looking rock”

  • Castlewood Canyon

    Waterfalls. Family friendly trails. 14 hiking trail options. About 14 miles east of Castle Rock.

    LOCAL TIP! Do the Inner Canyon Loop. The waterfall is worth the 5.8 mile loop.

    State Park = not free. $10/vehicle or $4/person for any non-vehicle entry.

Rueter Hess Incline stairs seen from the parking lot

Rueter-Hess Mini Incline, Castle Pines, Colorado

Rueter-Hess Mini Incline

Check out southern Colorado’s newest incline, opened December 2020.

Rueter Hess Mini Incline at a Glance

  • Loop Distance: Just over 1 mile from the parking lot, up the stairs, and down the trail
  • Views: Rueter Hess Reservoir to your right at the summit
  • Reservoir Access: Not yet open to the public; docks for SUP and non motorized boats are in the works
  • Getting There: About 5 minutes off I 25. Head toward the Rueter Hess Water Purification Facility, turn left on Heirloom Pkwy, then take the first left onto the access road
  • Local Tip: If you reach a neighborhood, turn around. You've gone too far.
  • Amenities: Ample parking, two very clean porta potties, and a well labeled trail map

This trail boasts 132 steps of 232 feet of elevation. Lace up your shoes, grab your bottle of water and start climbing stairs. Few people know about this incline, making it the perfect solo stair climbing experience.

Located just north of Castle Rock and across the street from the Rueter-Hess Reservoir, it’s an easy drive from Denver and Colorado Springs.

This hill is the incline view from the parking lot.

Nearby Trails

Hikers at the base of the Rueter Hess Incline in Castle Pines

Bluffs Regional Park 10099 Crooked Stick Trl Lone Tree, CO 80124

  • 3 miles of trail

  • Stunning views of the entire front range, from Pikes Peak to Longs Peak and beyond.

  • Plenty of parking and restrooms as well as bike repair station

Waterton Canyon 12491 Waterton Canyon Littleton, CO 80127

  • Nice, flat wide trails

  • Biker friendly.

  • 13 mile loop trail.

  • Animal spotting. Check out the big horn sheep and their babies. 

  • It gets hot so take plenty of water!

No matter which incline you pick, you are sure to get a heart pounding, lung bursting experience. Do you have a favorite? Let us know!

pub-food.jpg

Where to eat and drink after the Incline

Manitou Brewing Company

Grab a beer flight and truffle fries. The chocolate stout is a must. Order the Bronco Burger for the complete package. 725 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

Swirl

With a large selection of beers and cocktails, Swirl has a laid back environment with a beautiful little outdoor patio. Check out their goat cheese salad and flatbreads. 717 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

The Key Lounge

Pub food at its finest. Order the Killer Cheesy Bread. They have one of the best Reuben sandwiches in town, made with real corned beef. Beers and drinks. 730 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

Need a coffee instead?

You've just climbed 2,744 steps. y\You've earned whatever you want. Head down into Old Colorado City and you'll find two of our favorite Colorado Springs coffee shops within minutes of each other. Frankly Coffee on Colorado Ave is the perfect post-Incline stop, with cold brew, local honey drinks, and a vibe that matches the mood. Carnelian Coffee is just up the street with honey lavender lattes and the most welcoming staff in the city.

See our full guide to the best coffee shops in Colorado Springs

Check out the Best Breweries in Colorado Springs Guide.

We’ve mapped out the coolest spots by neighborhood, from places with live tunes to the best breweries in Colorado Springs that serve up delicious food, cozy outdoor spots, and a warm welcome for your furry friends.

Castle Rock Hops

Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co  

Bavarian nachos are a must. Beers are great and unique. Try the Colorado Koolaid Hazy IPA or Peanut Butter Patty Oatmeal Cream Stout. 519 Wilcox St, Castle Rock, CO 80104

Burly Brewing Company  

Food trucks on site to go with your beer. Try the sours or the Amber Beer. 680 Atchison Way #800, Castle Rock, CO 80109

Castle Pines Hops

Downhill Brewery

Get the flights to get a great sampling of the beers they offer.  Thin crust pizza is outstanding. Very kid friendly and outdoor seating. 18921 Plaza Dr, Parker, CO 80134

Welcome Home Brewery  

Dog friendly with a warm and cozy atmosphere. The Stout is worth a taste. 19523 Hess Rd #103, Parker, CO 80134 

 
Colorado SpringsMelody Monberg2 Comments