Conquering the Manitou Incline: How Long Does it REALLY Take?
So, you've heard the whispers, the legends: a grueling staircase straight to the heavens, a butt-kicking challenge that separates the tourists from the titans of fitness. You're itching to tackle the mighty Manitou Incline in Colorado Springs, but a burning question lingers: just how long will this self-inflicted torture take?
Fear not, intrepid adventurer! This guide will shed light on the incline's timey-wimey ways, from elite speedsters to those who prefer a more leisurely (read: gasping for air) ascent.
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| How Long Does It Take To Do The Incline In Colorado Springs |
The Incline in a Nutshell (or Should We Say, Bolts?)
The Manitou Incline is no walk in the park. This bone-fide beast is a nearly one-mile long series of railroad ties with an average spine-tingling incline of 41%. That's right, folks, you'll be hiking straight up a near-vertical mountainside.
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
But hey, with great challenge comes great reward! The views from the top are legendary, offering a panoramic vista of Colorado Springs and the majestic Pikes Peak.
How Long Does This Bad Boy Take, Then?
The answer, my friend, is it depends. Buckle up for a breakdown that's more exciting than a Netflix queue:
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
- The Sub-30 Minute Marvels: For the superhumanly fit and those with lungs that could power a jet engine, times under 30 minutes are achievable. Think Rocky Balboa training montage, but with less montages and more sweat.
- The Average Joe (or Jane): Most hikers conquer the incline in 1-2 hours. This is a solid timeframe to aim for, allowing you to enjoy the challenge without feeling like your heart is about to explode.
- The Leisurely Lookers: For those who prefer a more scenic (and let's be honest, slower) approach, take your time! There's no shame in soaking up the views and stopping for plenty of breath-catching breaks. Remember: The incline is a journey, not a race (unless you're racing a sloth, that is).
Important Note: These times are just for the uphill battle. Don't forget to factor in some chill time at the top and the descent (which can be surprisingly tiring on those quads!).
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Bonus Round: Taming the Incline Like a Pro
- Hydrate Like a Camel: This one's a no-brainer. Colorado sunshine is no joke, and dehydration is a recipe for misery. Pack plenty of water and sip frequently.
- Layer Up: The weather in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable. Bring layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
- Mind Your Footing: The incline can be uneven, so watch your step and wear proper hiking shoes. Going up is a feat, but coming down can be treacherous too!
- Respect the Incline: This is a challenging hike, so be honest with yourself about your fitness level. Don't push yourself too hard, and take breaks whenever you need them.
Frequently Asked Incline Inquiries:
How to train for the incline? Build your leg strength and endurance with hikes that have significant elevation gain. Stair workouts are your friend too!
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
How hard is the incline? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. But hey, the sense of accomplishment at the top is worth it!
How much does it cost to hike the incline? Currently, there is no fee to hike the incline. However, a free reservation is required.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How do I get to the incline? The incline is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. There are several parking options nearby, or you can take the Manitou Springs Incline shuttle.
How many times can I hike the incline in a day? There is no limit on the number of times you can hike the incline in a day, but be sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
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