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Welcome to the Manitou Incline!

Stock image of the Manitou Incline during sunrise

The Manitou Incline—affectionately known as “The Incline”—is one of Colorado’s most iconic and challenging hiking trails. Gaining 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile via 2,768 steep steps, it offers a heart-pounding workout with unmatched views as your reward.

Originally constructed as a cable car track to transport materials for building pipelines on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, the Incline later became a scenic ride for visitors eager to take in the panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the eastern plains.

In 1990, a rockslide damaged part of the track, leading to its closure. The rails were removed, but the remaining railroad ties soon became an unofficial stairway for adventurous locals seeking a serious physical challenge. For years, access was limited due to private property concerns—until February 2013, when a unique public-private partnership finally made the Incline legally accessible to all.

Today, the Manitou Incline stands as a bucket-list experience for fitness enthusiasts, travelers, and locals alike—offering both a demanding ascent and a deep connection to the region’s natural and historical landscape.

Free Reservations Required

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Leave No Trace - Gold Standard Site Logo


By receiving this highest standard of recognition, Gold Standard Sites are exemplary models, encouraging other public lands to ensure that Leave No Trace education is part of everyone’s experience when spending time outdoors. Learn more about what it means to be a Gold Standard Site here.