Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Manitou Springs, Colorado
Manitou Springs sits at the mouth of Pikes Peak's front range, and the trail network here punches well above what you'd expect from a small town. With around 60 active hiking listings, the options range from flat, paved strolls to sustained climbs that will test your legs and lungs.
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Manitou Springs sits at the mouth of Pikes Peak's front range, and the trail network here punches well above what you'd expect from a small town. With around 60 active hiking listings, the options range from flat, paved strolls to sustained climbs that will test your legs and lungs. The Creek Path and Intemann Trail are the workhorses of the system — the Intemann in particular threads along the hillside above town and connects to multiple trailheads, making it a natural spine for longer outings. Families and casual hikers gravitate toward Section 16 and the High School Trail, both rated easy and accessible without a long drive. If you want elevation and views, the Barr Trail starts right in town and is the same route used to summit Pikes Peak on foot, so even hiking the first mile or two gives you a real sense of the terrain. The Gog and Magog Rocks Trail and Ute Pass Trail add moderate variety, and the Forrest Allen Overlook Trail and Santa COS Overlook routes are worth the effort for the sightlines over the Pikes Peak region. Most trailheads are walkable from downtown, which is genuinely rare and means you can leave the car parked and string together several trails in a single morning.
Frequently asked questions
What are the easiest hikes in Manitou Springs for beginners or families?
The High School Trail, Section 16, and the Intemann Trail are all listed as easy and are good starting points. The Creek Path runs through town and is flat enough for young kids. None of these require any technical skill, but the elevation in Manitou Springs sits above 6,000 feet, so give yourself time to adjust if you're coming from lower ground.
When is the best time of year to hike in Manitou Springs?
Late spring through early fall is the most reliable window, with May through October covering the bulk of good hiking days. Summer afternoons bring frequent thunderstorms, especially on exposed routes like the Barr Trail, so start early and plan to be off ridgelines by noon. Winter hiking is possible on lower trails like the Intemann and Creek Path, but snow and ice can linger on shaded sections well into March.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails accessed directly from Manitou Springs, including the Intemann Trail, Creek Path, and Section 16, do not require a permit or fee. The Barr Trail is a National Forest route and access is currently free at the Manitou Springs trailhead, though parking in the area can be tight on weekends. Always check current conditions with the Pike National Forest or the City of Manitou Springs before heading out, as access and regulations can change.
What gear should I bring for a day hike here?
Water is the priority — the dry Colorado air and elevation mean you'll dehydrate faster than you expect, even on easy trails. Bring more than you think you need, at least two liters for anything over two hours. Layers are worth carrying year-round because temperatures can swing significantly between morning and afternoon. Traction devices are useful on the Ute Pass Trail and Barr Trail in winter and early spring when ice is common.
Can I connect multiple trails for a longer hike?
Yes, and this is one of the strengths of the Manitou Springs trail network. The Intemann Trail connects to several other routes and can be combined with the Roundup Trail or Ute Indian Trail to build out a half-day loop. The Barr Trail intersects with other Pikes Peak area routes if you want to extend further into the mountains. A trail map from the Manitou Springs visitor center or the city's parks department will show you the connection points clearly.
