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- Address:The Incline, Cascade, CO 80809
- Rating:4.8
- Hours:24 hours
The Incline
Reviews
Rated 4.8/5 based on 47 customer reviews.
David Dornbrack
March 10, 2020 22:57
A unique hike. No way to cheat this hike. Stop all you want, still a crazy tough hike. Get there early. If hotter then 60 then too hot for me. No shade. Very strenuous. Take Barr Trail down from top. Nice bailout to lower Barr Trail about 2/3 the way up. Free shuttle is great way to get there. Parking in Meladrama parking lot is reasonably priced if you don't want to ride shuttle.
Frank C.
February 12, 2020 19:41
Awesome, steep hike. It is a challenge, be in shape, bring water. It gets very steep at points. It gets snowy and icy so be careful. Great views at the top.
Larry Pacheco Jr
February 6, 2020 22:02
Amazing! We did it on a beautiful January day. It was a Saturday and even on the off-season it still gets crowded so be prepared. But boy was it worth it.
Definitely need to be in decent shape. First half was not too bad but once you get to the steeper sections it starts taking more of a toll on the legs.
Park in the shuttle parking lot and take the free shuttle up. Way less stressful and you get to meet your fellow climbers on the way up.
Zach Tullis
January 13, 2020 16:36
Decent little hike, if overrated. Not too difficult despite a sign at the entrance stating that it is not a walk in the park. Conditions of the park itself are excellent, nice upkeep considering the traffic, with a decent amount of parking spots.
jeffrey williams
January 2, 2020 16:34
Awesome for anyone that likes to hike. My 5 year old son made it to the top on his own so is ok for people of varying fitness levels
Charity Breed
July 10, 2019 09:08
Drove my car to the top, had some old fashioned famous donuts, made some Beaver friends, and was surrounded by exceptional views!! Pike's Peak Summit is surely worth the drive!! I love this mountain!
Joel Gonzales
September 26, 2018 23:36
Talk about an ass kicker. Check your ego at the first step and pace yourself. Listen to your body. It's a beast for sure. A must do. The panoramic views are breathtaking. Enjoy!
Jessica Nelson
September 25, 2018 01:04
Great work out! My 6 year old conquered it with me! Trail coming down was longer than I expected, but it was a great hike. Some of the steps were a little high to step up on, but I like how they are staggered to create variation.
andrew saetern
September 24, 2018 16:42
It's challenging, but well worth your time. The Incline is not a joke. If you're not active or somewhat fit, be careful. Take breaks on your way up. Those signs they have at the start of trail are a bit intimidating... lol
.88 Miles, 2000 Elevation Gain, 2768 Steps.... and the fastest completion time is 16:42. Your decent will be 4 miles. Run or walk, up to you.
I'm a pretty active person, so it took me about 45 minutes to reach the top. The struggle is well worth it. The view from the top is amazing. You'll also want to stop for some photos on your way down. I don't recommend you coming back down on the stairs....unless you want to damage your knees. Take the Barr Trail on your way back down.
There were quite a few couples on the Incline with children. They stopped and took rests along the way. I did notice that my breathing changed as I got higher and higher. The best part was the easiness of breathing on your way down. Huge difference. Be safe. Be smart. I could feel my legs get heavier as we continued up the stairs. I was a bit sore for a few days after this.
Bring a few bottles of water. You'll be drinking water on your way up and back down. Bring some snacks as well. If you're like me, you'll be eating as soon as you reach the top and then on your way back down. Wear light clothing, sunglasses, and hat.
Trust me...you'll feel amazing once you reach the top. It's not easy. Not everyone can do it.....but YOU CAN!!!
Bill Taylor
September 12, 2018 19:03
Park for free at Old Mans Trail parking lot. Shuttle is free plus it's great to do the hike, then take the shuttle back to town, have a bite to eat and shop. Sweet historic mountain village!
A Google User
August 22, 2018 11:26
I was visiting my son in Colorado. We always trained when he was younger. So before I left I told him let's go to the gym while I'm there. Instead he told me that he was going to take me for a walk just a mile walk up a flight of stairs. I'm from San Diego and live at the beach which is below sea level. Colorado is at a higher altitude and then we walk up the Manitou incline which is a 23000 foot altitude incline walking up the stairs. I yelled at him a couple of times while walking up the monstrous stairs but I made it!! What an enlightening experience that was. It was the best vacation ever I love you Iggy
Tz X
August 22, 2018 11:26
I was visiting my son in Colorado. We always trained when he was younger. So before I left I told him let's go to the gym while I'm there. Instead he told me that he was going to take me for a walk just a mile walk up a flight of stairs. I'm from San Diego and live at the beach which is below sea level. Colorado is at a higher altitude and then we walk up the Manitou incline which is a 23000 foot altitude incline walking up the stairs. I yelled at him a couple of times while walking up the monstrous stairs but I made it!! What an enlightening experience that was. It was the best vacation ever I love you Iggy
A Google User
August 15, 2018 00:24
Definitely not for the inexperienced hiker. Great workout though and super satisfying to get to the top. Only complaint might be that the trail back down was not very clearly marked but I'm still giving it 5 stars for the awesome experience
Cam Britt
August 15, 2018 00:24
Definitely not for the inexperienced hiker. Great workout though and super satisfying to get to the top. Only complaint might be that the trail back down was not very clearly marked but I'm still giving it 5 stars for the awesome experience
Daniel Orozco
August 4, 2018 20:46
Completing the Manitou Incline made me feel proud. And I haven't felt that proud of myself in a minute. Remember, rest when you wanna rest, it's not a race, and bring plenty of water. Catching the Barr Trail down is very scenic and peaceful. Have fun and be safe. Peace.
A Google User
July 31, 2018 15:10
How I had never heard of this before is a mystery. Not only is it the most prominent feature in the hills overlooking Manitou Springs, but it appeared to be one if the town's most popular attractions, judging by the number of people doing it with me at 6:15 in the morning on a Monday. I paid no attention to it's history, as a 2,000 foot vertical, 2,760 step stairway was enough appeal for me. I couldn't resist. Of course, I had to do it just to say that I did it, but it was so much more than a physical challenge. There are no stops, rests, pop stands, vendor booths, or other distractions. There is one bail-out point to a lower trail part way up, but otherwise once on it you either have to finish the ascent or return the way you came. It is meticulously well maintained, with lots of evidence of recent work. After the rewarding view and feeling of accomplishment at the top, there is a beautiful, red gravel trail with some wooden railings all they way back down to the origin. That trail alone was worth the trip up. Who knew climbing a set of stairs could be so much fun? If you go, take the warnings seriously. Apparently Search and Rescue has to haul a few overly ambitious, woefully unfit challengers off of it every year.
Satch Ludington
July 31, 2018 15:10
How I had never heard of this before is a mystery. Not only is it the most prominent feature in the hills overlooking Manitou Springs, but it appeared to be one if the town's most popular attractions, judging by the number of people doing it with me at 6:15 in the morning on a Monday. I paid no attention to it's history, as a 2,000 foot vertical, 2,760 step stairway was enough appeal for me. I couldn't resist. Of course, I had to do it just to say that I did it, but it was so much more than a physical challenge. There are no stops, rests, pop stands, vendor booths, or other distractions. There is one bail-out point to a lower trail part way up, but otherwise once on it you either have to finish the ascent or return the way you came. It is meticulously well maintained, with lots of evidence of recent work. After the rewarding view and feeling of accomplishment at the top, there is a beautiful, red gravel trail with some wooden railings all they way back down to the origin. That trail alone was worth the trip up. Who knew climbing a set of stairs could be so much fun? If you go, take the warnings seriously. Apparently Search and Rescue has to haul a few overly ambitious, woefully unfit challengers off of it every year.
Christopher Burns
July 25, 2018 18:17
This was, for me, not only on a bucket list, but one of the most challenging things I've ever done! I actually had to use my hands and feet to climb the second third of the stairs due to balance issues. I was determined to get to the top. I am from Maryland which is at a lower altitude. You will do it if you don't rush.
Take plenty of water. You must stay hydrated! It's almost a mile up and if you don't go back down the steps, it's almost four miles down the path. Either way, it's an achievement that you won't forget!
The view is awesome!
Recardo Brooks
July 23, 2018 20:59
This is a great challenge. If you want to see a beautiful site get some exercise as well as test your endurance this is the spot. We did this on a Saturday morning and it was a rewarding experience. A must do.
Jeff Taylor
July 23, 2018 17:41
This is a very tough climb! If your in average shape expect to take an hour or more to get to the top. Our party of six took from just over an hour to 2.5 hours. Once you get to the top there is a trail to go back down this is a four mile trail and took us just over an hour to do. Good luck and have fun!!! PS please take plenty of water with you.
A Google User
July 23, 2018 17:41
This is a very tough climb! If your in average shape expect to take an hour or more to get to the top. Our party of six took from just over an hour to 2.5 hours. Once you get to the top there is a trail to go back down this is a four mile trail and took us just over an hour to do. Good luck and have fun!!! PS please take plenty of water with you.
Jeff
July 23, 2018 17:41
This is a very tough climb! If your in average shape expect to take an hour or more to get to the top. Our party of six took from just over an hour to 2.5 hours. Once you get to the top there is a trail to go back down this is a four mile trail and took us just over an hour to do. Good luck and have fun!!! PS please take plenty of water with you.
Cristi Dozeman
July 14, 2018 20:47
I have never climbed up something so amazing.... Not gonna lie I am surprised we all made it to the top... You gotta try this.... It is a huge accomplishment to climb the incline.
Angelo Sapienza
July 12, 2018 10:34
Third time is easiest. Please take care of yourself and pace your way up this mountain, every iteration of "this is extreme" is not an exaggeration. You must be in great cardio shape to make this trek, but it is always a rewarding journey for those who are prepared!
Philip Levine
July 4, 2018 16:14
It's a heck of a workout and you need to be in good shape to do this climb. You just keep going and going... and going... and going... and going... stop and rest often and bring plenty of water. I'm 6'5" 185lbs and I went through 4 16oz bottles and I could have used more. Good luck
Greg Swartz
July 1, 2018 23:27
Very well maintained popular hiking location.
2768 railroad ties to the top. Just over 1 mile long with a 2000' elevation gain in that 1 mile. 41 degree grade on average with a 68 degree max.
Come hydrated. Bring lots of water with you. Take the 4 mile Barr trail down, that way it dosent clog the narrow but very busy trail. Besides, if you go down the incline, it is very easy to fall.
First timers should expect to take 1 - 1 1/2 hours to climb the 2768 railroad tie, 2000' elevation gain, 1 mile hike. And another 1 hour down Barr trail.
The only reason I rated it 4 stars instead of 5 was the $10 parking charge. I would have been fine with $5, but think $10 is too steep. (no pun intended)
Jason Kim
June 26, 2018 09:37
That was fun and rough at the same time. Fair warning: the second half of the climb is steep! Some times you can even touch the next step with you hands. Nice view all the way up!
Sasha Stewart
June 24, 2018 22:14
This is NOT your average hike. Be warned. This is considered Extremely Difficult Hike for a fit person. Bring water, change of clothing (jacket) and a friend in case your get discouraged. The hike is great for fit, semi-fit folks, please do not attempt if you are not in shape. According to the posted info there are over 100 people rescued from the trail annually!! Do not go along or during a warm/hot day...
Amit Shah
June 17, 2018 16:23
Awesome steps. At first it looks daunting, but take one step at a time and its very doable by the average hiker. I took the long way down which is a 3 mile hike. Very scenic views!! But a bit scary as there are minimal signs. Had to back track sever times as the fork has no indication on where to go.
adam sloan
May 22, 2018 14:47
Wow, what a hike (or should i say 'climb'). The incline starts out fairly mild then starts to get steeper about 1/4 of the way up. About 1/2 way up it gets really intense, then mellows out the last 1/4 mile.
Really fun and challanging, i highly recommend giving it a try if your in the area (very rewarding!)
Annik Rousseau
May 22, 2018 09:41
Wow! Nice challenge to hike those stairs. You definitely needs to breathe, take your time, enjoy the view. This place is unique. You can (and should) take the Barr trail down to avoid injuries and it is easier. I also know that there's a midpoint where you can take the trail down if you have enough.
chad klein
May 16, 2018 18:17
Great workout with a rewarding view at the top. Can be difficult to go back down the steps so I prefer to hike the side trail on the way down
Mason whillock
May 9, 2018 18:37
Fun experience but it was my first time so I only made it half way.
Joseph Dutko
May 6, 2018 23:53
When we first looked at this impressive test and read the statistics of the challenge, it was easy to determine this was not up our alley. First, you need to be really fit to take this on and cannot be faint-of-heart. It is a 2,000+ foot rise (summit is at 8550 feet and you start roughly at 6530 feet) with an average grade of 41%, but the truce challenge is the summit section where it increases to 68%. About 2/3, of the way up before the steepest part of the accent, you have an opportunity to use 'Bailout Point' and take the Barr Trail back down the mountain. If you do go and successfully make the climb we salute you as you are in much better shape than we are..... Enjoy
marisel boneta
May 4, 2018 12:17
The incline has been on my list for quite a while, never thought I could make it , up those challenging stairs but after living in the springs for 18th years, finally made it. Totally worth it, my favorite part was going down on Barr Trail.
Charles Matos
April 19, 2018 21:00
A must on anyone's bucket list! Very challenging but worth all of the pain just for the amazing view and sense of accomplishment on you reach the top!
Phillip Skelton
March 23, 2018 17:08
I did the Incline with my girlfriend, friend and coworker. We all had a great time
Nakashia Dunner
January 5, 2018 14:30
Amazing workout with great views. I won't lie - this is a challenging, but not impossible incline. I saw people of all ages and fitness levels out on a quiet Thursday morning conquering the mountain. Take your time and enjoy the scenery on the way up and don't get psyched out by the folks who RUN up this thing - truly impressive!
We parked at the lot directly below the incline and it was $5.00 for a few hours, more than enough time to do the incline at a comfortable pace, take some photos, and come back down.
Kashia Dunner
January 5, 2018 14:30
Amazing workout with great views. I won't lie - this is a challenging, but not impossible incline. I saw people of all ages and fitness levels out on a quiet Thursday morning conquering the mountain. Take your time and enjoy the scenery on the way up and don't get psyched out by the folks who RUN up this thing - truly impressive!
We parked at the lot directly below the incline and it was $5.00 for a few hours, more than enough time to do the incline at a comfortable pace, take some photos, and come back down.
sam zanco
December 25, 2017 22:07
It's intense, but not that bad if you take your time. The views are great on the way up, and even better at the top and during the descent. If it's your first time bring plenty of water and a snack, it will drain you.
Jennifer Estep
October 24, 2017 14:40
I live in the Denver area so assumed doing a bunch of stairs would be a piece of cake. I was wrong. This was a pretty intense little climb. I went on a humid day and had to take LOTS of breaks but made it! The trail down is very scenic and beautiful. Well worth it!
Nick NIjkamp
October 24, 2017 14:40
Very fun for a work out. Free and very will maintained.
Google Subscriber
October 24, 2017 14:40
Sorry folks, don't waste your time going to the incline, as it is closed for an ongoing project until sometime in 2018. We were extremely disappointed as tourists coming to experience this attraction. Of course there is also no where to park for free either. If you do the right thing, you have to call some automated # and pay $10 for 1 hour of parking just to utilize the incline. Very ridiculous for all practical purposes.
Valarie G
October 24, 2017 14:40
This climb is not for the faint of heart. It's a great place to continually come to measure progress in terms of physical fitness, but it is pretty difficult in some spots. There's some slippery gravel most of the way up, so be sure to wear good shoes and be aware! Once you start getting higher up, there are great views, and the top connects to Barr Trail, so you don't have to take the stairs down if you make it all the way up. Definitely tough if you're not used to climbing, but the feeling of victory at the top definitely makes it worth the trouble!
Google Subscriber
October 7, 2017 13:10
Sorry folks, don't waste your time going to the incline, as it is closed for an ongoing project until sometime in 2018. We were extremely disappointed as tourists coming to experience this attraction. Of course there is also no where to park for free either. If you do the right thing, you have to call some automated # and pay $10 for 1 hour of parking just to utilize the incline. Very ridiculous for all practical purposes.
Valarie G
September 3, 2017 23:29
This climb is not for the faint of heart. It's a great place to continually come to measure progress in terms of physical fitness, but it is pretty difficult in some spots. There's some slippery gravel most of the way up, so be sure to wear good shoes and be aware! Once you start getting higher up, there are great views, and the top connects to Barr Trail, so you don't have to take the stairs down if you make it all the way up. Definitely tough if you're not used to climbing, but the feeling of victory at the top definitely makes it worth the trouble!
Jennifer Estep
August 1, 2017 23:50
I live in the Denver area so assumed doing a bunch of stairs would be a piece of cake. I was wrong. This was a pretty intense little climb. I went on a humid day and had to take LOTS of breaks but made it! The trail down is very scenic and beautiful. Well worth it!