Manitou Springs

• Use the free shuttle or park on the outskirts of town and walk in, especially during peak season. Make sure you hydrate enough and eat well to keep your energy high.
• Pack layers so you can add or shed clothing as conditions change; a warm coat in Winter and a rainproof jacket/windbreaker in other seasons.
• In Summer, a brimmed hat will keep the sun out of your eyes. In the Winter, a nice hat will keep your ears warm. Be sure to wear sunglasses and apply strong sunscreen all year; at 6,306 feet you are closer to the sun and sunburn, even in winter.
• Last but not least, choose sturdy shoes that have grip if you plan to hit up any of the local trails.

• Many residents and visitors come for spiritual or healing reasons—from Indigenous traditions to New Age energy work. Be mindful at ceremonial sites, especially during public solstice events or water blessings. No mockery or disruption.

• Manitou is small and walkable, but parking is limited:

  • Use free shuttle lots when visiting during weekends or events.
  • Do not park in front of private homes unless clearly marked public.

• Follow signage carefully—ticketing is frequent due to high traffic.

• Manitou Incline and nearby trails are physically demanding. The incline gains ~2,000 feet in less than a mile—not recommended for unprepared hikers.
• Stay hydrated, wear proper footwear, and know the signs of altitude sickness: dizziness, headache, nausea.
• Colorado weather is famously unpredictable—bring layers, even in summer.
• Thunderstorms with lightning can roll in fast. Get off ridgelines and high areas during storms.
• The mineral springs are safe to drink, and each has its own flavor and mineral content. That said, don’t overdo it at once—some springs have high mineral levels, which can affect sensitive stomachs.

Dog friendly with plenty of patios, parks, and businesses that welcome dogs. Leashed dogs are allowed on most trails, just clean up afterwards.

• Free ADA Parking is available in all paid municipal parking spots (not private ones), with display of a valid placard or plate required; standard time limits still apply.
• Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) serves Manitou with accessible fixed-route buses, a free Incline/Cog Railway shuttle, and paratransit (Metro Mobility) service.
• Accessible trail loops include Palmer, Cabin Canyon, Strausenbach, and Central Gardens—rated wheelchair-friendly.

• Adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (effective mid‑2023), requiring “solar-ready” structures and EV-charging infrastructure in new construction.
• Deploying electric trams and mini‑EVs for enforcement and downtown circulation—part of the pilot toward a zero‑emissions fleet.
• Uses a vacuum “vactor” truck that recycles water—it consumes ~2,700 gal/week vs 20,000 previously.
• Introduced a community "Food to Power" composting program (2021 initiative)
• Certified as the world’s first Municipal Pollinator District (2022), partnering with the CAWG and pollutant protection programs

1. A few sellers or private guides may exaggerate the health benefits of the spring water or sell bottles of “local spring water” for high prices.

   Tip: The real mineral springs are free and public—no one needs to sell them to you. Refill your own bottle at the springs marked by official stone or iron pavilions.

2. Some private lots pose as public parking with unclear signs and higher-than-city rates.

   Tip: Look for official City of Manitou Springs meters or lots. ADA placards allow free use of paid public spaces, but not private lots.

3. During big events like the Coffin Races or summer markets, some street vendors may charge festival premiums for basic food, drinks, or crafts.

   Tip: Walk around first to compare prices, and bring cash to avoid credit card “convenience fees.”

Emergency: 911 Police Non-Urgent: (719) 390-5555 Parking: (719) 685-2600 City Hall: (719) 685-5481 Fire Dept: (719) 685-1444 Library: (719) 531-6333 ext 7004 Park Rental: (719) 685-2601 School Dist 14: (719) 685-2024​