Things to do in Manitou Springs, Colorado (CO): The Best Nature & Parks

May 14, 2022 Marianna Hollaway

The city of Manitou Springs is a home rule municipality located in El Paso County, Colorado, United States. The town was founded for its scenic setting and natural mineral springs. The downtown area continues to be of interest to travelers, particularly in the summer, as the downtown area consists of many one-story, adjoining, small shops, restaurants, and pubs, as well as a creekside city park with a children's playground made from unusual materials. Among other services, shops cater to tourist interests such as clothing, candy, souvenirs, and outdoor recreation. The main road through the center of town was one of the direct paths to the base of Pikes Peak. Barr Trail, which winds its way up Pikes Peak, is accessible from town. The subdivision Crystal Hills was added to the municipality in the 1960s.
Restaurants in Manitou Springs

1. Manitou Springs Incline

Manitou Springs, CO http://www.pikes-peak.com/want-climb-manitou-incline
Excellent
81%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
2%
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5.0 based on 804 reviews

Manitou Springs Incline

Reviewed By AshBernadette88 - Colorado Springs, United States

I've hiked the Manitou Incline several times over the past decade, but this was my first time hiking it since renovation. All of the dilapidated steps have been replaced, making for a much safer ascent, and markers are located every 100 steps allowing hikers to track progress. As always, this was very physically challenging but rewarding. The views of Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods are spectacular throughout the hike. There is plenty of room at the top for hikers to rest and have a snack. If you hike a bit further on (take a right at the fork, hike for a quarter mile), you will reach an outlook that provides unmatched views of Pikes Peak. Note that hikers who summit are discouraged from going DOWN the Incline; there is a connector trail that starts left of the summit that hooks up to Barr Trail for an easier descent. Make sure to bring water and a snack for the top, and dress in layers. If you are not fit or have an underlying health condition (i.e. asthma or diabetes), THIS HIKE IS NOT FOR YOU. For many hikers, however, the mental game provides the biggest challenge. Put away the ego, take breaks as needed, and you'll make it!

2. Barr Trail to Pikes Peak

Manitou Springs, CO
Excellent
77%
Good
23%
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5.0 based on 30 reviews

Barr Trail to Pikes Peak

Reviewed By dhauptli

This is the best local hike outside of Garden of the Gods, as there are less tourists and the view is incredible. Take crampons or microspikes with you, as well as walking poles if you hike in winter months; Snow and ice in spots today, but worth the venture! Wear layers and bring some gloves as it's cold when you are not hiking in the sunshine. You or your friend may slip once or twice on ice, but you'll be alright. Still, this trail is worth the hike even if you only go for an hour or two. No one needs to hike 13 hours round trip to Pikes Peak and back to enjoy this trail. - Just get out there! Park the car in Manitou and walk up to the trail head, or find the free parking with free bus from town up to the Cog Railway and walk from there to the trailhead. The Incline meets the Barr Trail up the side of the mountain about 3 miles, but doesn't need to be hiked in winter as the snow and ice make it hazardous for most folks. If you are a thrill seeker, take the Incline Trail with spikes on your shoes. Wonderful view either trail you hike. ENJOY

3. Intemann Trail

422 New York Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Excellent
50%
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50%
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4.5 based on 2 reviews

Intemann Trail

4. Rainbow Falls

Serpentine Drive, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/RainbowFallsManitou/
Excellent
50%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
6%
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6%
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4.5 based on 16 reviews

Rainbow Falls

Reviewed By dwaynea3 - Parker, United States

We went before it started really getting cold. Whether you want to fish, or hike this place is amazing.

5. Manitou Springs Memorial Park

Manitou Ave & El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs, CO
Excellent
44%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
19%
Poor
1%
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4.0 based on 68 reviews

Manitou Springs Memorial Park

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