Manitou Mineral Springs
Discover 8 unique natural mineral springs, conquer the challenging Manitou Incline, and explore a charming town with a spiritual vibe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Manitou Mineral Springs
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 8 unique natural mineral springs, conquer the challenging Manitou Incline, and explore a charming town with a spiritual vibe.
"Manitou Springs offers a unique blend of natural wonders, from its effervescent mineral waters to the iconic Incline climb."
💧 Bring Your Own Cup!
Carry a reusable cup or water bottle to sample the mineral springs for free.
👟 Incline Prep is Key
Reservations needed for the Incline! Pack plenty of water, snacks, and wear good shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 8 Natural Mineral Springs
Throughout Manitou Springs
Embark on a unique tasting journey, sampling naturally carbonated waters with distinct flavors and historical significance.
Manitou Incline
Base of Pikes Peak
Conquer this iconic, steep climb for breathtaking views and a serious physical challenge. Reservations are a must!
SunWater Spa
Manitou Springs
Relax and rejuvenate in mineral-rich soaking tubs with stunning mountain vistas. A perfect spot for wellness.
Penny Arcade
Manitou Springs
Step back in time at this classic arcade filled with vintage games, skee-ball, and pinball for nostalgic fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Springs Adventure
+1The Incline Challenge
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Your Own Cup!
Carry a reusable cup or water bottle to sample the mineral springs for free.
👟 Incline Prep is Key
Reservations needed for the Incline! Pack plenty of water, snacks, and wear good shoes. +2
🗺️ Get a Springs Map
Pick up a map at the Visitor Center to easily find all 8 unique mineral springs.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; consider the bus option or arrive early. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Your Own Cup!
Carry a reusable cup or water bottle to sample the mineral springs for free.
👟 Incline Prep is Key
Reservations needed for the Incline! Pack plenty of water, snacks, and wear good shoes. +2
🗺️ Get a Springs Map
Pick up a map at the Visitor Center to easily find all 8 unique mineral springs.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; consider the bus option or arrive early. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Town
Manitou Springs is very welcoming to dogs, with trails and parks to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of tasting the 8 natural mineral springs and the charm of Manitou Springs. The Manitou Incline is a challenging but rewarding adventure for the fit. Some find the town's unique vibe and shops delightful, while others might find parking and crowds a bit much during peak times.
"A really beautiful little park nestled below the mountains in Manitou springs. Natural mineral spring water that many locals use to fill up their water jugs.
It has a gazebo and a small little concrete amphitheatre surrounding that. Many events are held here including drum circle on Thursday evenings.
Lots of beautiful flower gardens here and nearby."
Jessie E
"Great little spring across from the park, which is right next to a creek. The spring tastes wonderfully fresh and is revitalizing on the skin. I would definitely recommend stopping to see it."
Brett Moniz
"After completing the Mineral Springs walking tour, I have to say Seven Minute Springs is my favorite. It’s got a mild taste and it’s just so refreshing on a hot day.
Here’s a tip for your Manitou Spings tour: grab some collapsible stainless steel cups from the Chamber of Commerce. They’re only $5 for two cups, and they’re super convenient to carry in your pocket."
John H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manitou Springs is a short drive west of Colorado Springs, typically about 15-20 minutes. You can drive yourself, or use ride-sharing services. Some visitors opt for the local bus system for convenience.
The town is very walkable, especially the main avenue with shops and springs. For the Manitou Incline, there's a shuttle or parking available. +1
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during events. Arrive early or consider parking further out and walking. +1
Yes, there are parking options and a shuttle service available for the Manitou Incline, which is recommended to avoid parking hassles. +1
The drive itself offers beautiful mountain views as you approach Manitou Springs, especially if coming from Colorado Springs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a reservation is required to hike the Manitou Incline. Make sure to book in advance through their official website. +2
No, exploring and tasting the 8 natural mineral springs throughout Manitou Springs is a free activity.
The Manitou Incline is typically open 24/7, but reservations are required for access. Check the official website for any specific time restrictions.
The parks themselves, like the one with the gazebo and gardens, are generally free to enter. The main cost might be for parking.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Manitou Incline trail. However, many other areas in Manitou Springs are dog-friendly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a very strenuous hike with 2,768 stairs and a 2,000-foot elevation gain. It's a significant physical challenge, but the views are rewarding. +1
The time varies greatly depending on fitness level, but typically takes 2-4 hours round trip.
There are 8 natural springs with different tastes and mineral compositions. Locals often fill jugs to take home.
Explore the unique shops, art galleries, the Penny Arcade, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of the town.
Yes, the parks often host events like drum circles on Thursday evenings, and have beautiful gardens and art installations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Manitou Springs offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, many with a charming, local feel.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks for the Incline hike. +1
While not formal picnic areas, the parks offer benches and grassy areas where you can enjoy a packed meal.
You'll find a mix of American fare, cafes, and some unique local eateries reflecting the town's eclectic vibe.
Most restaurants in tourist towns like Manitou Springs will have vegetarian options, and often vegan choices are available. It's best to check menus or ask.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique architecture, the vibrant mineral springs, the mountain backdrop, and the charming street scenes. The parks offer lovely garden shots.
Yes, the springs are publicly accessible and often have interesting signage or natural settings that make for great photos.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the town and surrounding mountains.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private businesses and individuals.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the mountain scenery and townscapes. A macro lens could be fun for close-ups of the spring water's effervescence.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The mineral springs tasting tour can be turned into a fun scavenger hunt, encouraging kids to try different flavors and learn about the town's history. While the Manitou Incline is likely too strenuous for young children, families can enjoy the scenic drives and the charming downtown area. Consider bringing a stroller or carrier for younger children as you explore the town on foot. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great destination for a family day trip or a longer stay.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Exploring the charming downtown shops and parks is also free of charge. The Penny Arcade offers affordable entertainment, allowing you to play classic games without breaking the bank.
While the Manitou Incline requires a reservation, it's a relatively low-cost activity for the immense physical challenge and views it provides. 🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
+1 Many visitors also find therapeutic benefits from drinking the mineral spring waters directly from the town's fountains, believing in their healing properties. The town's spiritual and artistic atmosphere also contributes to a sense of well-being. You can find yoga classes and other wellness activities offered in the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Manitou's Mineral Springs
+1 The springs are scattered throughout the town, making a self-guided tasting tour a fun and free adventure. You can pick up a map from the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau to locate them all. Each spring offers a unique flavor profile due to varying mineral content. Some are described as having a mild, refreshing taste, while others can be quite pungent or metallic. Popular choices include the Seven Minute Spring, often cited for its pleasant taste, and Shoshone Spring. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own cups or water bottles to sample the waters, and many locals regularly fill up jugs to take home, a testament to the perceived quality of the water.
+1Beyond tasting, the springs are often located in or near charming parks with amenities like gazebos, sculptures, and amphitheaters. These areas provide a pleasant setting to rest, people-watch, and enjoy the natural beauty of Manitou Springs. The SunWater Spa offers a more curated experience, allowing visitors to soak in mineral-rich waters for ultimate relaxation and wellness.
+1Conquering the Manitou Incline
Preparation is key for a successful Incline hike. Visitors are strongly advised to bring more water than they think they need, along with electrolytes and snacks to maintain energy levels.
While the climb is demanding, the panoramic views from the top are a significant reward. The descent is typically done via the Barr Trail, which offers a less strenuous, albeit longer, route back down.
Exploring Manitou Springs' Unique Charm
+1A major draw for families and those seeking nostalgic fun is the Penny Arcade. This classic arcade features vintage games, skee-ball, pinball, and other amusements that transport visitors back in time.
The town is also situated at the base of Pikes Peak, offering stunning mountain landscapes and opportunities for outdoor exploration. The Fountain Creek runs through the town, adding to its scenic beauty and providing lovely walking trails. Manitou Springs is also known for being dog-friendly, with many establishments and trails welcoming canine companions.
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