Climbing the Incline with my mom

September 1, 2023

This summer my mom came to visit us. She had never experienced the summer in Colorado so we were able to do a lot more this time around. As the years have passed we have learned that we value our time together and sharing unique experiences.

I was looking for things to do in Colorado Springs and I came across a video of people hiking the Incline. As I read about it and watched more videos I thought there is no way we’ll finish this but we can at least attempt it. Let me be very clear, the videos I saw didn’t remotely prepare us for this experience. It was incredibly exhilarating.

We scheduled our hike, HERE. We went in August I would suggest the earliest time you are willing to start. The earlier the better because once it heats up the climb becomes a lot tougher. We parked at a meter in downtown Mantiou Springs. There is are two lots you park at: the Hiawatha Gardens Parking Lot, located at 10 Old Man’s Trail or the Iron Springs Chateau, located at 444 Ruxton Ave but you should make a reservation. We didn’t and it was full once we arrived.

Once we parked we walked about a mile to the check-in at the foot of the incline. Once we checked it we took a short walk to the foot are the Barr Trail to you the indoor bathroom. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it (especially if you are like me and you’re terrified of potter potties). There is also lockers inside of this restroom if you have a lock with you!

We walked but to the foot of the incline and started our trek.

My mom and I both went through of moments of doubt, exhaustion, and gasping for air. I had to keep telling myself I could do it. It was a very mentally and physically exhausting task. The joy I felt when my mom and I locked arms and reached the top was unbelievable.