Manitou Incline capacity increases, reservations still required
MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- For hikers set on taking on the Manitou Incline, the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services department reminds hikers reservations are still required.
The free online reservation system, which began last year, is still in place. Hikers will have to show proof of their reservation plus proof of parking to an onsite attendant.
“The first principle of Leave No Trace is to plan ahead and prepare,” said Gillian Rossi, park ranger supervisor. “I can’t think of more important advice to follow when it comes to the Incline. From making your free reservation to having a parking plan, bringing enough water and snacks, to checking the weather ahead of your hike, your entire experience will benefit if you take the time to plan ahead and prepare.”
People can make a reservation up to one week in advance. The capacity increased to 65 people allowed every thirty minutes from 6 a.m. through 10 a.m.
Paid parking is available at Hiawatha Gardens and the Iron Springs Chateau. Incline hikers are prohibited from parking in the Barr Trail parking lot or along Ruxton Avenue and Winter Street. Barr Lot is meant only for those hiking into the Pike National Forest.
There is also a free shuttle from Hiawatha to the Incline that runs every 20 minutes. Without the shuttle, the walk from Hiawatha to the Incline is more than a mile.
