Explore
Your adventure begins the moment you step outside The Outrider. Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak in historic Manitou Springs, our boutique hotel puts you within minutes of Colorado's most iconic natural wonders and outdoor experiences.
Garden of the Gods
Just a 3-minute drive from your room, Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado's most photographed landscapes — ancient red rock formations towering against a backdrop of Pikes Peak.
Explore Garden of the Gods
Pikes Peak — America's Mountain
At 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak dominates the skyline and captures the imagination. This is the mountain that inspired "America the Beautiful."
Explore Pikes Peak
Downtown Manitou Springs
Step out our door and you're immediately in the heart of one of Colorado's most charming mountain towns, where artistic character meets genuine mountain hospitality.
Explore Downtown Manitou Springs
Manitou Incline
The Incline isn't just a workout — it's a rite of passage. This intense trail climbs 2,000 feet in less than a mile, with an average grade of 41%.
Explore Manitou Incline
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Journey 100 feet underground into a living cave system where stalactites and stalagmites have been forming for millions of years.
Explore Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Step back 800 years into the world of the Ancestral Puebloan people. These preserved cliff dwellings offer a hands-on encounter with ancient architecture you can actually walk through.
Explore Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The world's highest cog railway departs right from Manitou Springs, carrying passengers over 14,000 feet to the summit of Pikes Peak in vintage-style rail cars.
Explore Pikes Peak Cog RailwayPlan Your Perfect Day
The Classic Colorado Day
- 01Morning at Garden of the Gods (2-3 hours)
- 02Lunch in downtown Manitou Springs
- 03Afternoon drive up Pikes Peak Highway
- 04Return to The Outrider for sunset s'mores by the fire pit
Adventure Seeker's Day
- 01Early morning Manitou Incline attempt
- 02Recovery brunch downtown
- 03Afternoon mountain biking at Garden of the Gods trails
- 04Evening soak in Manitou's natural hot springs
Family Fun Day
- 01Morning hike on easy Garden of the Gods trails
- 02Picnic lunch
- 03Afternoon Cave of the Winds tour
- 04Penny Arcade games & ice cream on Manitou Avenue
Relaxed Explorer's Day
- 01Leisurely sunrise photography at Garden of the Gods
- 02Gallery browsing in downtown Manitou
- 03Scenic Pikes Peak Cog Railway ride
- 04Afternoon relaxation at the hotel & dinner at a local favorite
Seasonal Considerations
Spring
April – May
Wildflowers bloom in Garden of the Gods, but afternoon thunderstorms increase. Pikes Peak Highway typically opens fully by late May. Perfect temperatures for hiking.
Summer
June – August
Peak season with warm days and afternoon thunderstorms. Book Incline reservations and popular activities in advance. Early morning adventures beat the heat and crowds.
Fall
September – October
Colorado's secret best season. Aspen groves turn gold, crowds thin out, and weather is stable and gorgeous. Prime photography season.
Winter
November – March
Pikes Peak Highway closes seasonally, but Garden of the Gods is spectacular with snow-dusted red rocks. Fewer crowds, magical light, and cozy après-adventure vibes at The Outrider.