The Manitou Incline - Is It Really As Tough As It Looks?

Join us on an unforgettable family adventure as we tackle the famous Manitou Incline in Colorado! In this vlog, I went with my husband, brother, and sister-in-law on a ridiculously challenging yet rewarding hike. Despite feeling nauseated by the time I reached the top, our trek was filled with laughter, breaks, and well...more breaks.
Physically, it was the hardest thing I've ever done outside of childbirth, and if it hadn't been for the promise of snacks and a long break at the top, I might not have finished! 🫠
At the beginning, we all agreed to make it to the top no matter how long it took and no matter how many breaks we had to take. Having that freedom kept us from feeling rushed or stressed. 
⛰️ Climb Details:
• Duration: It took us three hours to ascend and two hours to descend using the trail.
• Preparation: We packed light backpacks with essentials like trail mix, a phone charger, battery pack, phone, sunglasses, sunscreen, chapstick, a light jacket (which wasn’t needed but good to have), ID, a small tripod, and a baseball cap. Pro tip: next time, I’m bringing a CamelBak, more water (at least 64 oz per person), Kleenex, and maybe a can of oxygen for easier breathing.
🥾 Gear & Tips:
• Footwear: Comfort is key! We wore athletic shoes and were quite comfortable. Choose moisture-wicking hiking pants and a light-colored hat to keep cool.
• Reservations: Essential and nearly missed! Book at least a couple of weeks in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
⏰ Timing:
• Total Time: Allocate around five hours for the complete hike, including breaks and a rest at the top.
• Best Time to Go: We suggest starting mid-morning or earlier to enjoy cooler temperatures and less crowded paths.
👟 Trail Experience:
• The descent is easier but lengthy, taking us about two hours without breaks.
👕 Fun Tip: Wear a fun t-shirt! It adds levity to the challenge and makes for great photos and interactions.
🍽️ Post-Hike Treat: After conquering the Manitou Incline, we treated ourselves to a creekside lunch at Wines of Colorado. Don’t miss their legendary carrot cake-expensive, but utterly delicious and a perfect reward for your efforts.
💪 Fitness Levels: Regardless of fitness levels, everyone found the Manitou Incline challenging. If you’re not used to high elevations, allow a few days to acclimate before attempting the climb.
Safety First: Always check the weather before your hike and inform someone of your plans. Safety is paramount in such challenging terrains.
Engage with Us:
• Drop a comment below with your own hiking experiences or tips for the Manitou Incline!
• Share this video with anyone you know who loves an adventure!
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#ManitouIncline #FamilyHike #ColoradoAdventures #HikingVlog #DayHike
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[@user-tc9ny4nm5l]

I understand. I did it on 7-24-24 and I was glad to see the parking lot too. I wouldn’t trade the experience for nothing but the last mile and a half on Barr Trail, I was ready to get off the mountain

[@35disguisedas76]

I'm 77 and just completed the incline. I refused to go back down.

[@cindymve]

Does anyone know what the rise measurement is between the top of one step to the top of the other near that steep part??? Like a typical staircase is roughly 6-8 inches. Reason I ask is I want to do this hike but have a weird meniscus tear that has pretty much healed. I work out almost everyday lift weights can jog a mile even with this weird knee but going up a ladder can be an issue and it breaks my heart. 2 years ago I could go up regular steps without doing the step-step granny steps using my good knee. Now I can do regular steps but ladders are an issue still. Thanks in advance. Glad you guys had a blast and did it!!🎉

[@tinaennis3607]

All I could think was "no way I'd go DOWN those stairs!"

[@themicrotraveler]

They highly discourage it, but there were still several people going down them as we climbed up. There was no way I was going to put myself through that, though!

[@tinaennis3607]

All I could think was I'd fall down all of them!!! 😂

[@willienillie6337]

I agree. Don’t wait for retirement. You’ll be too old to do any of these things.

[@JoshuaColbert-zy5co]

I hope my log is still there at the top right. I’ve ticked every time I’ve done it.

[@JoshuaColbert-zy5co]

I hope my log is still there at the top right. I’ve ticked every time I’ve done it.