The crown jewel of outdoor recreation in Manitou Springs and referred to by locals as simply ‘the Incline’, this popular but strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart. It climbs over 2,000 vertical feet in less than a mile with sections as steep as 68% grade. Don’t forget to watch your step; they range in size and height to keep you on–or knock you off–your toes. At the summit, the Incline Trail connects to Barr Trail, which offers a steep but scenic 3-mile path back down to the base.
A historic building and a parking lot located East of Downtown that offers paid parking and a frequent free shuttle which travels to-and-from the Incline. Parking Kiosks located at Hiawatha Gardens will print a receipt which is required for access to the Incline.
Situated near the base of the Manitou Incline and the COG Railway, the Iron Springs Chateau is a historic building that provides entertainment as well as parking locations to access the Incline. This is a private business, and not operated by the City of Manitou Springs.