The Manitou incline is a fun adventure that will for sure challenge all aspects of your being.  You will gain just over 2,000 feet in elevation in just under a mile.  It is important to hydrate the day before and while climbing, bring and wear easy on/easy off layers, and expect amazing views.

There is a false summit as you make your way up the steps, keep that in mind.  The false summit is roughly ¾ of the way up.  Janae feels the false summit to the actual summit is a bit easier- just to offer some optimism.  Every so often gain your footing and turn around to take in the amazing views.

Once at the top and you have caught your breath and taken in the amazing view and accomplishment, there are 2 main ways to get back down.  You are welcome to travel back down the way you came up, taking one step at a time going down.  This option tends to be hard on the knees and please use caution as some steps are steep.  The second option is to take the Barr trail connector which is about .4 of a mile and then head down Barr Trail which is about 2.25 miles.  This option is longer, but a bit easier on the knees.  Both ways need cautiousness as there are rocks, steps, and such to navigate.

Parking is in 2 main spots.

Iron Springs Chateau:  Located right next to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway Station on Ruxton Parkway.  Parking is hit or miss and plan on a miss if you are climbing the incline on the weekend or summer months.  Parking is usually full by 6:00am.  The cost $15 cash only.

Manitou Springs, Hiawatha Gardens Parking Lot:  Parking is easy and there is a shuttle bus that runs about every 20min to take you to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway on Ruxton.  You will have a short hike to the Manitou incline trail head.  Pay for parking at the Kiosk or online through your phone.  Parking rates change but expect to pay by the hour.  The shuttle bus can take you back to your car when you are done with the incline.