Expert Tips for Hiking the Manitou Incline

Practice Hikes

Whether you’re a new hiker or an experienced athlete here are some hikes to help you prepare for Manitou Incline.

• Red Rock Canyon Open Space - features several trails from easy to moderate
• Almagre Mountain - moderate trail with one of the tallest summits
• Pulpit Rock Park Loop - moderate trail
• Ute Valley Park Loop Trail - moderate trail
• Helen Hunt Falls - difficult hike with stairs
• Seven Falls - moderate hike up the falls
• Blodgett Peak - difficult trail

Other Training Suggestions

Aside from going on hikes, jogging and running up hills or training on flights of stairs are great practice. You will need to carry supplies with you when you make the ascent. If this isn’t something you’re used to we recommend carrying extra weight on alternating workouts.

Packing list

1. Water (at least 2 liters but more is better)
2. Electrolytes
3. High-energy, high-protein snacks
4. Sunscreen
5. First Aid Kit
6. Trail running shoes and/or hiking boots
7. Layers (many people start wearing a light jacket and take it off as they make their way up the incline)
8. Trekking Poles (many people complete the incline without but they are helpful for balance)

If attempting in winter be sure to bring extra layers and foot traction.

Night Before Prep

The night before you hike Manitou Incline be sure to carb load and drink plenty of water and electrolytes. Then head to bed early to make sure you’re well rested in the morning.

Day of the Hike

If you are hiking during the Summer begin your hike in the early morning to avoid the heat. The stairs of the incline are not even, some are as high as two feet, so pace yourself and be sure of your footing. Take breaks as often as you need and make friends along the trail!

Three bail-out points

1. Northern Incline Return Trail, railroad tie #395
2. Northern Incline Return Trail, railroad tie #1300, approximately mid-way
3. Cut through to Barr Trail and Ute Pass

The False-Summit

About 300 steps below the final summit and marks the beginning of the 68% grade and is your last chance to leave the incline before reaching the summit.

When you reach the summit follow the Barr Trail and it will return you to the base of the incline, this is a 4 mile-long, moderately difficult trail with switchbacks and loose rocks.

After the Incline

Once you complete your hike be sure to drink a lot of water and electrolytes to rehydrate and eat plenty of food to refuel. Hold off on any more exercising for the day and spend the evening relaxing.

Congratulations, you made it! No matter if you had to use a bailout or made the summit you took on and completed an impressive feat. If you can't get enough of hiking the Manitou Incline consider challenging yourself and set a record.