Intemann Trail

Overview

Six-mile traverse along the bluffs above Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs. Connects multiple trailheads with mostly gentle grade and big city-edge views. The full route covers 6 miles point to point with about 800 feet of climbing, and most hikers finish it in around 3 hours. It sits in the Front Range, near Manitou Springs in El Paso County, topping out at 7,100 feet.

Trail Highlights

How Hard Is It?

This is rated moderate. The long 6-mile distance paired with steady 800 feet of gain is what sets the effort level. It runs point to point, so you will need a shuttle or a second car at the far end. The elevation stays low enough that altitude is not a major factor for most hikers. If you hike regularly, plan for roughly 3 hours of moving time; add a buffer for photos, snack stops, and the slower pace at altitude.

Best Time to Hike

The best seasons here are spring, summer, and fall. Summer is the reliable window once the snow clears, though that also means the busiest trailheads and the daily afternoon thunderstorm risk. In Colorado the weather turns fast in the high country, so start early, aim to be heading down by early afternoon, and watch the sky. Lightning, not distance, is what turns most summer hikes around.

Getting to the Trailhead

The trailhead is in the Front Range, closest to Manitou Springs (El Paso County). No pass or permit is required to park, though popular lots still fill early on summer weekends. The parking coordinates are 38.8627, -104.9171; plug those into your map app rather than the trail name, since several Colorado trailheads share names. Mountain weather and road closures can change access, so confirm the access road is open before a long drive.

Dogs & Kids

Dogs are allowed, and they should stay leashed to protect wildlife and other hikers. Kids can handle it with breaks, especially given the 6-mile length. Bring extra snacks and water and let the pace be theirs.

What to Pack

Pack the Colorado basics: more water than you expect, layers for a 30-degree temperature swing, sun protection for the high-altitude UV, and rain protection for the afternoon. For a long, steady hike like this one, the gear that earns its weight most is comfortable footwear and a solid shell. Here is what we actually recommend for trails like this:

• ›hiking boots with real traction
• ›a packable rain shell
• ›a water filter for the longer day

Frequently Asked Questions