Manitou Incline & Ferns Diner
Details
Length 4.0 mi
Elevation gain 1,978 ft
Explore this 4.0-mile loop trail near Manitou Springs, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 14 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
• The Incline Trail requires a free reservation to enter. Reservations can be made here: https://cityofcoloradosprings.aluvii.com/store/shop/productdetails?id=1&productId=1
• ACCESS INFORMATION: In order to access the Manitou Incline, you will need to park in a specific lot and pay a fee for parking. For more information, please visit: https://cityofcoloradosprings.aluvii.com/store/shop/productdetails?id=1&productId=1#parking
The Incline Trail is the remains of a Cog railway that went to the top of Manitou Mountain. The trail gains about 2000 feet of elevation in about a mile with an average grade of 45%. Imagine climbing a rough uneven set of stairs that's a mile long. There are three bail-out points, the last one is about halfway up that will put you on Barr Trail. Once you're at the top it is recommended that you turn south and hike or run back down Barr Trail (hiking down the Incline is not encouraged).
The view from the top over Colorado Springs is worth the effort. Plan to arrive in time to find parking and allow plenty of time to get to the base on the Incline.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/the-manitou-incline?search=true
After the hike, we plan on meeting for lunch at
Ferns Diner - https://www.fernsdiner.com
They do close at 3pm. Depending on how long it takes the group to complete the hike, we have other places to check out in mind, any suggestions welcome.