The Manitou Incline

...built as a cable car to carry materials to build pipelines on Pikes Peak. After the pipelines were finished, it was turned into a tourist attraction. A rock slide damaged a section of track in 1990, so the Manitou Incline was closed down and the rails removed. Some locals started using it for a tough workout. Until February 2013, a portion of it was private property and it was illegal to hike up the ties of the old cable car. It is known as one of, if not the most popular, hike in the Colorado Springs area.

This is considered an extreme trail and is an advanced hike! The Incline gains almost 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. It's not for the faint of heart, but people from all walks (or climbs) of life have given it a go. It is, perhaps, the most unique and challenging trail in the country, attracting runners, Olympic athletes and cyclists. The trail is also used by military personnel and even soccer moms. More than anything, the Manitou Springs Incline is famous for dishing out a tough workout. "I can’t think of any particular workout, route, or activity that forces you to push your boundaries quite like the Incline does," said Cameron Chambers, national mountain bike champion.

For a successful experience, consult your physician, bring plenty of water and energy snacks and be sure you've adjusted to the high altitude of Colorado Springs (6,035 ft). Pace yourself and rest when you need to. About three-quarters of the way up, the Manitou Incline intersects with Barr Trail and you can take that way back down if you like. Don't be fooled by the false summit. After you crest it, there are still about 300 steps to go. Once you've made it to the top - or rather if you make it to the top - you can either come back down the incline or hike down the bottom four miles of the Barr Trail.

It's a true Colorado workout that is enjoyed by many. If you're inclined, give it a try!