Pikes Peak Inn is the closest lodging to historic downtown Manitou Springs. Local shops and unique restaurants are right next door.
Manitou Springs
Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is a charming mountain town known for its natural mineral springs, vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, indulge in local cuisine, or embark on scenic hikes. It's the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Packages
The adventure starts now
Pikes Peak
Hike or drive to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains, standing tall at 14,115 feet. This majestic peak, often referred to as “America’s Mountain,” offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, from the expansive plains to the distant Rocky Mountains. Whether you choose the scenic route by car or prefer the challenge of a hike, there’s something for everyone. For those who want a more leisurely experience, the Pikes Peak Highway is the perfect option. The 19-mile drive offers numerous pull-off points to take in the stunning vistas along the way. As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically from lush forests to alpine tundra, and the views become more striking with every turn. At the summit, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view that includes the city of Colorado Springs, distant mountain ranges, and even views as far as Kansas on clear days. The summit also features a gift shop and a café serving the famous Pikes Peak donuts – a must-try treat after your drive.
Garden of the Gods
Just a short drive from the charming town of Manitou Springs, Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking public park that attracts visitors with its striking red rock formations and natural beauty. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities like hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. With over 15 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging hike. Popular trails such as the Perkins Central Garden Trail offer stunning views of the towering rock spires, while more rugged paths like the Gateway Trail lead you deeper into the park, where you can explore its unique terrain and diverse wildlife. The park’s iconic sandstone rock formations, some reaching heights of over 300 feet, make it one of the best places in the region for photography. The vibrant red and orange hues of the rocks, set against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak, create a stunning contrast, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the colors are most vivid. The unique geological formations, such as the Balanced Rock and the Siamese Twins, have become symbols of the park and offer fantastic photo opportunities for visitors.
Manitou Springs Incline
One of the most famous and challenging hikes in Colorado, the Manitou Springs Incline offers a steep vertical ascent of 2,000 feet over less than a mile, making it a favorite for hikers seeking an intense workout. Originally built as a cable car track in 1907 to transport materials to the top of the mountain, the incline is now one of the most iconic trails in the region. With its relentless ascent, the hike consists of over 2,700 wooden steps, offering both a physical challenge and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. The trail’s steep grade and elevation gain make it a popular destination for fitness enthusiasts, but it’s not for the faint of heart—expect to feel the burn as you push yourself to the top. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic views of Manitou Springs, Pikes Peak, and the surrounding foothills, with breathtaking vistas visible as you climb. The incline’s difficulty is matched by its beauty, as you pass through various stages of forested terrain and open areas that offer spectacular perspectives of the landscape below. The incline’s popularity has only grown in recent years, and while it provides a demanding challenge, it also offers a great sense of camaraderie among those who brave the ascent. Many hikers choose to take breaks along the way, especially at the halfway point where there’s a resting area and an opportunity to catch your breath before completing the climb.
Hike to Seven Falls
About 15 minutes from Manitou Springs, Seven Falls is a stunning natural wonder, featuring a series of seven majestic waterfalls cascading down a narrow canyon. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the falls create a striking contrast against the lush greenery of the canyon floor. The picturesque location is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty, with each waterfall offering its own unique charm as the water plunges down the rocky terrain. The falls are particularly enchanting after rainfall, when the water flow is at its most powerful, adding to the drama and allure of the scene. Visitors can choose to hike up the 224-step staircase that winds its way alongside the falls, offering close-up views of the cascading water and the vibrant flora around it. The hike provides a rewarding experience for those seeking a more active adventure, with various scenic spots to stop and take in the views. For those preferring a more relaxed visit, an elevator takes you up to a scenic overlook, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire waterfall sequence and the canyon below. Whether you’re hiking the stairs or enjoying the falls from the overlook, Seven Falls is an unforgettable destination that showcases the raw beauty of Colorado’s natural landscape.
Cave of the Winds
Located just outside Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds offers an incredible opportunity to explore a stunning underground world through guided tours of its vast cave system. As you venture through the cave, you’ll witness fascinating rock formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones, formed over millions of years. The tours lead you through narrow passages, expansive chambers, and dramatic geological features, all while an expert guide shares insights into the cave’s history, formation, and the unique ecosystem that thrives in its cool, dark environment. The experience is both educational and awe-inspiring, providing a rare glimpse into the beauty and mystery of underground landscapes. For those seeking more adventure above ground, Cave of the Winds also offers the Wind Walker Challenge Course and the heart-pounding Terror-dactyl ride. The Wind Walker Challenge Course is a ropes course that challenges participants with a variety of obstacles set high above the ground, offering incredible views of the surrounding area. For an adrenaline rush, the Terror-dactyl ride launches thrill-seekers 1,500 feet above the canyon floor, offering a jaw-dropping view before plunging them into a thrilling, free-fall experience. Whether you’re exploring the cave’s depths or facing the excitement of the adventure courses, Cave of the Winds offers something for everyone, combining natural wonder with high-energy thrills.
Manitou Springs Penny Fountain
Manitou Springs is renowned for its natural mineral springs, which have been attracting visitors for centuries due to their purported healing properties. One of the most popular spots in the town is the Penny Fountain, located in the heart of the town center. Here, you can sample the mineral-rich waters that flow freely from the fountain. The water, which is high in minerals like iron, magnesium, and sodium, is said to have various health benefits, from improving digestion to boosting energy. Visitors can bring a cup or bottle to taste the water, and many enjoy the quirky tradition of making a wish by tossing a penny into the fountain. It’s a fun, interactive experience that connects you with the history and charm of the town.
