MANITOU INCLINE IS BACK!

Sept 11-13th

A fitness challenge you will never forget!

Every year at Studio ME we talk about doing things that once felt impossible.

Lifting heavier.

Moving without pain.

Building consistency.

Becoming someone who shows up.

The Manitou Incline is just that idea…outside the gym.

This isn’t just a trip.

It’s a goal.

It’s something to train for.

It’s a shared experience with people who push each other to grow.

And yes…it’s hard.

And yes…you can absolutely do it.

What is the Manitou Incline?

The Manitou Incline is a legendary hiking trail in Manitou Springs, Colorado made up of 2,768 steps climbing almost 2,000 feet in elevation in less than one mile.

It’s considered one of the most challenging hikes in the country.

Most people take between 1.5 to 3 hours to complete it depending on pace and experience.

The starting elevation is around 6,500 feet and the top sits around 8,500 feet, which means altitude is part of the challenge too.

But here’s what most people don’t realize:

This isn't about speed.

It’s about pacing.
It’s about mindset.
It’s about doing something hard together.

Last year every Studio ME participant who attempted it made it to the top. We even had Kira carry her one year on her back the whole way up!

Why We Do This Trip

At Studio ME we don’t just train so you can be good at workouts.

We train so you can live fully.

We train so when opportunities come up… you can say yes.

This trip is about:

Having a goal to train toward
Doing something outside your comfort zone
Building confidence
Creating memories with great people
Celebrating what your body can do

And honestly…

It’s just really fun.

The climb is hard. The stories afterward are even better.

Who This Trip Is For

This trip is a great fit if you:

  • Want a big goal to train for

  • Like the idea of doing something challenging with a supportive group

  • Want a reason to stay consistent this summer

  • Enjoy hiking or want to start

  • Want a memorable experience instead of another typical vacation

This trip may not be ideal if you:

  • Currently cannot walk a few miles comfortably

  • Have an active injury that isn't managed

  • Strongly dislike early mornings

  • Prefer purely sightseeing trips

If you’re unsure, just ask a coach. We’ll be honest with you.’Can I Actually Do This?

This is the most common question.

Short answer:
Yes, if you prepare.

Most people who complete the Incline are not elite athletes. They are regular people who trained consistently and paced themselves well.

Last year our group included:

People in their 20s through 60’s.
People who had never done a major hike.
People who trained consistently but weren't extreme exercisers.

The biggest mistakes people make:

  • Starting too fast

  • Underestimating altitude

  • Not hydrating enough

  • Not training consistently

The biggest success factors:

  • Consistency

  • Strength training

  • Step volume

  • Patience

  • Smart pacing

Most of this is exactly what we already focus on at Studio ME.

How Studio ME Prepares You

This is where doing the trip with us makes a difference.

You won’t just show up and hope for the best.

We help you prepare through:

  • Strength training for durability

  • Single leg work for climbing

  • Cardio progression

  • Loaded carries

  • Step volume progression

  • Mobility work for ankles and hips

  • Training stair climbs

  • Recovery strategies

Training Timeline

Most people benefit from about 12–16 weeks of preparation. We’ll start our training stair climbs in June.

Trip Highlights From Last Year

Last year’s trip included:

Group hikes before the Incline
A celebration brewery visit after the climb
Cabin hangouts and grilling
Recovery breakfast
Lots of laughs
Some tired legs
Huge sense of accomplishment

The most common comment after finishing:

"I didn’t think I could do that."

This Year's Trip Plans

After the climb:

We will celebrate immediately after the Incline with a group stop at a local brewery.

Saturday evening:

Instead of going back out, we plan to grill at the cabins, relax, and spend time together.

Think recovery, good food, and great conversation.

Sample Trip Schedule

Thursday

Arrivals

Friday

Optional acclimation hike
Group dinner

Saturday

Incline climb
Brewery celebration
Cabin cookout

Sunday

Breakfast and departures

FAQ’s