Conquering the Manitou Incline: Less Stairmaster of Doom, More Like Climbing Mount Awesome (But Sweatier)
So, you've heard whispers of a legendary hike near Colorado Springs. Maybe you saw a picture on social media and thought, "Hey, that looks like a fun walk in the park!" Buddy, let me tell you, that ain't no walk in the park. That, my friend, is the Manitou Incline.
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| How Hard Is The Incline Colorado Springs |
It's Not a Hike, It's a Character-Building Experience (Unless Your Character is Sloth from Goonies)
The Incline is basically a staircase forged by the sweat of determined souls gone before you. Clocking in at a casual 2,700 steps and a heart-stopping average grade of 45% (with sections as steep as 68%!), this isn't your grandpa's shuffle up to the mailbox. It's a full-on assault on your quads, a test of your lungs, and a guaranteed conversation starter for weeks to come (because, let's be honest, you'll be bragging about it for a while).
But Wait, There's More! (Because Seriously, There's a Lot Here)
Yes, the Incline is hard. Like, really hard. But here's the thing: the views? Unreal. The sense of accomplishment at the top? Unmatched. The bragging rights you'll earn? Legendary. So, while you might be questioning your life choices halfway up, the reward at the end is totally worth the struggle. Just imagine the epic social media post you can craft with that panoramic mountain vista as your backdrop. #WorthIt
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Here are some friendly tips to keep in mind before you embark on your Incline adventure:
- Be prepared to huff and puff. This ain't no stroll through a rose garden. Bring your A-game lungs and a positive attitude.
- Hydration is your BFF. Pack plenty of water and chug it like it's going out of style. Dehydration is a real party pooper at high altitude.
- Dress for success (and sweat). Breathable clothing and good shoes are a must. You don't want to be slipping and sliding in your flip-flops (although, that would make for a hilarious story).
- Take your time. There's no shame in going slow and steady. It's a marathon, not a sprint (unless you're a mountain goat, in which case, kudos to you).
- Enjoy the view! Take breaks, soak up the scenery, and appreciate the fact that you're conquering this beast.
Now, before you head out there and become an Incline legend, let's answer a few burning questions:
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How to train for the Incline? Regular cardio and leg workouts are your friends. Think stair climbing, lunges, and squats.
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How long does it take to hike the Incline? For most people, it takes between 1-2 hours to complete the round trip. But hey, it's not a race!
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How much does it cost to hike the Incline? There's currently a $10 permit fee required to hike the Incline.
How hard is the Incline, really? On a scale of 1 to "I think I saw my soul leave my body," it's a solid 8. But hey, challenge accepted, right?
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How do I feel like a badass after conquering the Incline? Easy. Strike a pose at the top, flex those now-tremendous quads, and know that you've just accomplished something pretty darn epic. High five!
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