The Manitou Incline

Heck NO, I didn't go!

In 1907, the Manitou Incline was constructed as a one-mile, funicular, cable tram to aid in the construction of a nearby hydroelectric plant and waterline. Typical  wooden boxcars were used to haul materials and pipe up to the top of Mount Manitou. Shortly after it was constructed, the Railway was purchased by Dr. Newton M. Brumback who quickly converted it to a tourist attraction boasting a 16-minute ride to Mount Manitou Park on the "longest and highest incline on the globe."

"This is an EXTREME workout and not for the faint of heart. It is recommended that you give yourself ample time to adjust to the Colorado altitude before tackling the Incline. Once you feel acclimated and ready, be sure to bring water and sip it along the way. Remember that Incline Base Camp has water, energy drinks and nutritional bars if you need extra energy. Take your time reaching the top. Wear plenty of sunscreen as the sun will beat down on you and shade is limited. Don't forget to step to the side and rest if you need to. Most importantly, DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE DEEPLY!"

The Incline is very impressive because of its sheer height and straight up uneven steps with no shade or rest areas.  Lots of people have to be rescued off it each year.  I didnt climb it.  I did reach the halfway point and get photos both up and down from there, but that's another story from the Sunday Marathon.  The city closed the incline Thur-Sun for the Marathon.  (when someone reaches the top, or halfway point of the Incline, they return DOWN via the Barr trail.  But that's where the Marathon runners were coming up, so close the Incline to avoid crashes)

Sunday, when the Incline was closed, Marathon staff clim down to remove trash. *note the uneven steps and long strides necessary to climb.  

It's a real monster!