The Manitou Incline

A couple of months ago, while I was researching Waldo Canyon and other hikes in the Colorado Springs area, I came across references to The Manitou Incline trail.  I had heard of The Incline before.  But, I didn't know a whole lot about it.  I didn't realize that the trail was the same path that the original railway and incline went up and that I remembered seeing when wandering the streets as a teenager living in Manitou Springs.  I knew people used it to train.  But, I didn't realize the extent of it's popularity.  I knew that it was a straight mile-long climb up the mountain.  But, I never made the connection that it was that ugly straight-lined scar that you could see from the highway.

When we went to Waldo Canyon, we started talking about doing The Incline.  Our friends told us about the people they knew who did it regularly.  Lori and I talked about trying to do it by the end of the Summer.  Well, a couple of weeks ago, Lori suggested we do it.  I had half expected that we wouldn't be doing it until next Spring.  But, I happily agreed.  As I read about it more, I wasn't sure that Lori knew what she was getting us in to.  When I called my friend Joel a few days before we were planning to go, he told me how "hard" it was.  My friend Joel is not a recovering fat person like myself and has always been in great shape.  So, hearing him say that was cause for some concern. 

We took off Saturday for The Incline with our friend and fellow willing masochist, Kelly Brude... albeit a little later than our previous hikes.  We were under the false notion that it was late enough in the year that we wouldn't be fighting for a parking spot or find many other people on the trail.  Maybe it was because of the unusually beautiful weather for this time of year.  Maybe, this trail and area is simply always busy.  We got lucky finding a parking spot or we would have had a good walk just to get to the trailhead.  There were still plenty of people on The Incline.  In fact, there were enough folks that it made me think that it must be crazy crowded in the middle of the Summer. 

The short climb from the Barr Trail parking lot to the bottom of The Incline trail is enough to get you breathing hard... and possibly make you regret what you have just committed yourself to.  The Incline is about a mile long and climbs 2,000 feet.  It is a 45-50 degree climb up old railroad ties with varying degrees of difficulty including some steps that are closer to climbing than stepping.  While there is an element that is a test of one's stamina and strength, I think the climb is more a test of will and determination.  While there are people running or quickly walking up, mere mortals like us breathe heavily and slowly feel are legs turn to rubber.

Yes, it is still illegal to hike The Incline.  Good thing there is strength in numbers!

This photo doesn't do the climb justice.  Plus, the summit you see above is a false summit... not very nice if you ask me!

Yes, that speck on the left is Lori.

That parking lot below is where we started.  This isn't even quite halfway up.

Some of the trail is not as well maintained as other parts.

It was her idea... she couldn't quit after suggesting it!  So proud of you Lori!

And, yes, it was definitely worth it!  The views are incredible.  The feeling of accomplishment even more so.  After a short rest and a snack, we actually continued on another 200 feet up to the true summit and eventually met up with Barr Trail. 



The climb down Barr Trail is the best reward for your efforts.  After climbing 2,000 feet over one mile, the descent is a meandering 3.5 miles down.  As we were walking, a young couple ran past me.  I don't think they meant to motivate me.  I imagine they gave me little more thought than a simple "move out of our way old man so we can keep our pace".  Knowing that Lori had a friend that she could walk and talk with, I decided to give trail running a try of my own.  I ran about 90% of the way, slowing only to maneuver around other people on the trail and an occasional rest.  It felt great and I couldn't believe how fast I got down the mountain!

And, yes, while  it doesn't yet fit like I want it too, that is indeed an Under Armour shirt that I am wearing!  Men's Health magazine, here I come!

The next day, my body didn't think that running down was such a great idea.  My thighs, hamstrings and hips were sore and only got more soar as the day went on.  They still hurt today.  But, you know what I am going to say next... it's a good sore.  The Manitou Incline is a great challenge and a great hike.  I don't think I am going to be breaking any sub-30 minute records any time soon.  But, I know we will be back.  Great idea Lori!  Here's to my wife foolishly believing that we are more in shape than we actually are...