Conquering the Manitou Incline: How Long Does This Stairway to Heaven (or Heck) Take?
So, you've set your sights on the Manitou Incline, the "not-your-average-stairmaster" challenge that's become a Colorado Springs legend. You've seen the pictures, the triumphant smiles at the top, and maybe even a few videos of people practically sprinting up those steps. But here's the burning question that's keeping you up at night (besides the altitude, maybe): how long does this bad boy ACTUALLY take?
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| How Long To Hike The Incline Colorado Springs |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: It Ain't a Race (But There Will Be Passing)
The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The Incline is a beast, a nearly mile-long staircase that conquers over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Think of it as a vertical marathon, except with much less Gatorade and way more existential dread (kidding... mostly).
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Here's the skinny on Incline ascension times:
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- The Superhuman Speedsters: We're talking Olympic athletes and mountain goats here. These folks can conquer the Incline in under 30 minutes. Don't worry, they're a rare breed.
- The Weekend Warriors: If you hit the gym regularly and have decent lung capacity, you're looking at a respectable 40-60 minute climb.
- The Casual Climbers: This is most of us mere mortals. Take your time, enjoy the view (and the occasional wheeze), and expect the hike to take anywhere from 1-2 hours.
Remember: This is just for the climb UP. Descending the Incline is not recommended (imagine tripping on those steps!), so factor in some chill time at the top and a leisurely hike down the Barr Trail for the full experience.
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Don't Be a Tourist Trap: Be Prepared!
While the Incline might be tempting to conquer on a whim, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some friendly tips to ensure your Incline adventure is epic, not epic-ly embarrassing:
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- Hydrate Like a Camel: This ain't a walk in the park (or should we say, climb in the park?). Bring plenty of water and plan to chug it like it's going out of style.
- Altitude Adjustment: Colorado Springs sits at a cool 6,000 feet. If you're coming from sea level, give yourself some time to adjust to the thinner air. Otherwise, you might be seeing stars before you even reach the halfway point (and not the good kind).
- Dress for Success (and Sweat): Layers are your friend. It can be chilly at the start, but trust us, you'll be working up a sweat. Sturdy shoes with good traction are a must.
Bonus Tip: Don't forget the sunscreen! Those Colorado rays are no joke, especially when you're practically ascending into the sky.
How To FAQ: Incline Edition
Convinced you're ready to take on the Incline? Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions:
How to get there? The Incline is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. There's parking available, but it fills up fast, so plan accordingly.How much does it cost? Currently, there's no fee to hike the Incline. However, parking fees may apply.How hard is it? The Incline is challenging, with a steep grade and lots of steps. Be honest with yourself about your fitness level.How many people can be on the Incline at once? There's a permit system in place to limit crowding. Be sure to check for reservations before you go.How many times can I say "wow" on the hike? At least a dozen. The views are THAT good.
So there you have it! With a little planning, the right attitude, and maybe a good playlist to keep you pumped, you'll be conquering the Manitou Incline in no time. Just remember, it's not about speed, it's about the journey (and the bragging rights at the top). See you on the incline!
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