Conquering the Manitou Incline: A Stairway to Heaven (or at Least Really Sweaty Knees)
So, you've heard whispers of a legendary hike in Colorado Springs. A place where calves scream, lungs wheeze, and the view from the top is so worth it, you'll swear you can see aliens making snow angels on Mars. That, my friend, is the Manitou Incline, and you're curious about its most intimidating feature: the steps.
How Many Steps Is The Incline In Colorado Springs |
Step Up Your Step-Counting Game: How Many Are We Talking About?
Here's the thing about the Incline's steps: they're like a rogue sock in the dryer - the number seems to fluctuate. Officially, it's somewhere around 2,744 steps. But trail maintenance, erosion by over-enthusiastic hikers (looking at you, Gary with the neon spandex), and the occasional rogue squirrel with a penchant for rearranging things can cause the count to shift.
Think of it like this: There are enough steps to make your Fitbit go into cardiac arrest, enough to impress your grandma who walks five miles a day, and definitely enough to leave you wondering if you accidentally signed up for a stairwell marathon.
But Wait, There's More! The Incline's Stairway to...Pain? Glory? Both?
The step count is just the tip of the iceberg, my friend. The Incline is a brutal (yet beautiful) beast. It's a straight shot up at an average incline of 41%, with sections as steep as 68%. Imagine walking up a ski slope on a particularly ambitious day. Yeah, it's like that.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
But fear not, intrepid stair-climber! The reward at the top is a panoramic vista of Colorado Springs that'll knock your socks off (assuming you haven't sweated them clean off by then).
Conquering the Incline is a badge of honor, a right of passage, and a guaranteed conversation starter at your next cocktail party (because let's be honest, you'll need a drink after that).
Frequently Asked Incline Inquiries: How to Not Look Like a Tourist
How to train for the Incline?
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
This ain't a walk in the park (or should we say, climb?). Stair workouts, hill repeats, and a healthy dose of self-delusion ("This won't be that bad!") will be your best friends.
How long does it take to hike the Incline?
For the average hiker, 1-2 hours to get up, and maybe slightly less coming down (because, you know, gravity). But remember, this is your hike, not a race. Take your time, enjoy the views, and don't forget to breathe (unless you're going for that whole "become one with the mountain" vibe).
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
How hard is the Incline?
Let's just say your glutes will be begging for mercy by the time you reach the top. But hey, that's what makes the accomplishment so sweet, right?
How much water should I bring?
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Hydration is key, my friend. Pack more water than you think you'll need, especially on hot days. There are no fountains on the Incline, so plan accordingly.
How do I get to the Incline?
The Incline is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. There's parking available, or you can take the Manitou Springs Incline Cog Railway (because who doesn't love a good train ride before a butt-kicking hike?).
So there you have it, folks. The Manitou Incline: a stairway to challenge your fitness, test your willpower, and reward you with epic views. Now lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and get ready to conquer those steps!
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