Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs is the antidote to Colorado Springs' conservative reputation. This small mountain town, tucked into Ute Pass at the base of Pikes Peak, has cultivated an artsy, alternative vibe since the 1960s. Natural mineral springs bubble up throughout town, Victorian buildings house eclectic shops and galleries, and the legendary Manitou Incline attracts fitness enthusiasts from around the world.

The mineral springs that give the town its name have drawn visitors since the Ute Indians recognized their healing properties. By the late 1800s, Manitou was a fashionable health resort. Today the springs are free to visit, the penny arcades still operate, and the town maintains a character distinctly different from its larger neighbor.

The Manitou Incline

The challenge: 2,744 steps climbing 2,000 feet in less than a mile. That's an average grade of 45%, with sections approaching 68%. The former cable car railway bed is now one of the most popular fitness challenges in Colorado.

The experience: It's exactly as brutal as it sounds. Most first-timers take 1-2 hours to climb. Seasoned athletes complete it in 20-30 minutes. Everyone finishes breathless. The views of Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs below expand as you climb.

Logistics: Free, no reservation required. Parking is extremely limited at the base—arrive early or take the free shuttle from downtown. The Incline is one-way up; you descend via Barr Trail (adds about 3 miles). Open sunrise to sunset (7 PM in summer).

Preparation: This is a serious workout at altitude. Bring water, wear proper shoes, and know your fitness level. People have died on the Incline from cardiac events. It's not a casual tourist activity.

The Mineral Springs

Eight public springs are scattered throughout downtown Manitou Springs, each with a different mineral composition and distinct taste. They range from mildly mineral to intensely sulphurous. Free to visit and sample.

Taste test: Bring your own cup and try several. Some are pleasant, others are acquired tastes, and a few are frankly unpleasant. That's part of the experience. The Ute supposedly considered the springs sacred; you might understand why after tasting them.

Historic context: The springs made Manitou a Victorian-era health destination. The Grand Pavilion and other historic structures remain from that era. The Spa of the Rockies continues the wellness tradition with modern spa services.

Downtown

Manitou Avenue is the main street—a walkable strip of Victorian buildings housing galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and oddities. The character leans alternative: crystal shops, vintage stores, eclectic art, and a general vibe of "anything goes."

Penny Arcade is a throwback—a vintage arcade with original machines, some dating to the early 1900s. Genuinely charming and worth a few quarters.

The Cave of the Winds is nearby, offering guided tours of limestone caverns. A solid family activity if you want to add variety to a Manitou visit.

Cliff Dwellings (relocated Ancestral Puebloan structures) are also nearby—more of a historical curiosity than an authentic site, but interesting for families.

Gateway to Pikes Peak

Cog Railway depot is located in Manitou Springs, making the town the natural starting point for a Pikes Peak journey. Combine a summit trip with lunch or shopping in downtown Manitou.

Barr Trail trailhead begins near the Cog Railway depot. This is where hikers start the 13-mile trek to Pikes Peak's summit.

Garden of the Gods is a 10-minute drive from Manitou Springs. Easy to combine both attractions in a day.

Practical Information

Parking: Limited street parking and several small lots. Weekends get crowded. The free shuttle from downtown Manitou to the Incline trailhead helps with that specific bottleneck.

Crowds: Summer weekends and holidays are busy, especially around the Incline. Weekday mornings offer more breathing room downtown.

Food scene: Several good restaurants for a town this size. Adam's Mountain Café is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. Sahara Café offers Mediterranean fare. The Loop for Mexican.