Manitou Springs Colorado Guide | Incline, Pikes Peak & Things to Do

Your Guide to Manitou Springs

Mineral springs and mountain challenges

Manitou Springs has always attracted free spirits. The Ute people considered the mineral springs sacred. Victorian-era health seekers came for the waters. Today's visitors find a quirky mountain town with a distinctly alternative vibe nestled at the base of Pikes Peak.

The Manitou Incline draws fitness enthusiasts from around the world. This former cable car track gains 2,000 feet in less than a mile—a brutal workout that's become a Colorado rite of passage. Reservations are required for the most popular time slots.

Garden of the Gods sits just minutes away, while the Pikes Peak Highway begins its climb from the edge of town. Downtown Manitou offers art galleries, metaphysical shops, and several of the historic mineral springs that gave the town its name.

Explore Manitou Springs

Springs, peaks, and adventure

INCLINE

The Incline

2,744 steps gaining 2,000 feet in 0.88 miles. One of America's most challenging urban hikes. Average grade: 41%. Reservations required for peak times.

PEAK

Pikes Peak

America's Mountain at 14,115 feet. Drive the Pikes Peak Highway, ride the Cog Railway, or summit on foot via Barr Trail.

SPRINGS

Mineral Springs

Eight public springs throughout town, each with distinct mineral content. Free to sample. Bring your own container or use the fountains.

CAVE

Cave of the Winds

Underground cave tours plus outdoor adventure activities. Discovery Tour for families, lantern tours for atmosphere, and Terror in the Deep for thrills.

TOWN

Downtown

Art galleries, crystal shops, and quirky boutiques line Manitou Avenue. Arcade games, local restaurants, and the Penny Arcade for vintage entertainment.

RUINS

Cliff Dwellings

Preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, relocated here in the early 1900s. Explore the rooms and learn about ancient Southwest cultures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Manitou Springs visit

How far is Manitou Springs from Denver?

About 75 miles, roughly 1.5 hours via I-25. It's immediately west of Colorado Springs, just off the highway at exit 141.

Do I need a reservation for the Incline?

Reservations are required before 3pm daily. After 3pm, it's first-come, first-served. Book through the city website. Arrive early for parking.

Is Garden of the Gods in Manitou Springs?

Technically in Colorado Springs, but right on Manitou's border. It's about a 5-minute drive from downtown Manitou. Free admission.

How difficult is the Incline?

Extremely. The average grade exceeds 40% with sections over 68%. It takes most people 1-2 hours to climb. Start early, bring water, and know your limits.

Manitou Springs, Colorado