Explore the Best of Colorado on a Manitou Springs eBike Tour
Pete Averson
Imagine a place where nature's grandeur meets rich history, all nestled in the vibrant heart of Colorado. Welcome to Manitou Springs — a quirky, artistic mountain town that serves as the gateway to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the American West. And there's no better way to experience it all than on a guided eBike tour with Ride Colorado.
Why Choose an eBike Tour of Manitou Springs?
Manitou Springs is a town bursting with character. From its eclectic downtown filled with independent galleries and shops to its famous healing mineral springs that have drawn visitors for centuries, there's something magical around every corner. But the town's location at the base of Pikes Peak means the terrain can be challenging — steep hills, winding roads, and significant elevation changes.
That's where pedal-assisted eBikes change everything. With an eBike, you can conquer any terrain Manitou Springs throws at you without breaking a sweat (unless you want to). You'll cover more ground, see more sights, and arrive at each stop feeling fresh and ready to explore. Our premium eBikes make it possible for riders of all fitness levels to enjoy the full Manitou Springs experience.
Natural Wonders
### Garden of the Gods
No visit to the Manitou Springs area is complete without experiencing Garden of the Gods. This free, public park features towering red rock formations that were pushed up millions of years ago by the same geological forces that created the Rocky Mountains. The park was sacred to Native American peoples long before European settlers arrived, and it's easy to understand why — the dramatic sandstone formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
On our eBike tour, we ride through the park and stop at several iconic viewpoints, including the famous Kissing Camels formation and the awe-inspiring Balanced Rock. Your guide will share the geological history of these 300-million-year-old formations and the stories of the people who have called this place sacred.
### Pikes Peak — America's Mountain
Towering over Manitou Springs at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is one of Colorado's most famous fourteeners. Known as "America's Mountain," it inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful" after reaching its summit in 1893. On a clear day, you can see the peak from nearly every point on our tour, and your guide will share the mountain's rich history — from the Gold Rush prospectors who used it as a landmark to the daring engineers who built the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
Historical Landmarks
### Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Step back in time more than 800 years at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. These remarkable structures were built by the Ancestral Puebloans and later relocated to Manitou Springs in the early 1900s for preservation. Walking through these ancient rooms gives you a tangible connection to the people who thrived in the challenging landscape of the American Southwest centuries before European contact.
### Miramont Castle Museum
Perched on a hillside overlooking Manitou Springs, Miramont Castle is one of the most unique buildings in Colorado. Built in 1895, this extraordinary structure features 33 rooms showcasing an astonishing 9 different architectural styles — from Romanesque and Gothic to Tudor and Shingle Style. Now a National Historic Landmark and museum, Miramont Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the gilded age of Colorado Springs society. The castle also houses a charming tea room where you can enjoy refreshments with a view.
Unique Attractions
### The Manitou Springs Incline
The Manitou Springs Incline is one of the most famous — and challenging — hikes in Colorado. This steep ascent follows the route of a former cable car railway, climbing nearly 2,000 feet in elevation over less than a mile. While we won't be riding our eBikes up the Incline (that would be something!), we stop at the base to take in the incredible sight of hikers making their way up the near-vertical trail. Your guide will share the history of the original Mount Manitou Scenic Incline Railway and how this abandoned railway bed became one of Colorado's most popular hiking destinations.
### Pikes Peak Historical Street Railway
Manitou Springs has a deep connection to railway history. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which has been carrying passengers to the summit since 1891, is a marvel of engineering. Your guide will point out historical railway landmarks throughout the town and share stories of the adventurous souls who first made the journey to the top of America's Mountain by rail.
Fun Stops Along the Way
### Penny Arcade
Step into a time machine at the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade, a beloved landmark that has been entertaining visitors with vintage games and amusements since 1930. From antique pinball machines to classic skee-ball, the Penny Arcade is pure nostalgic fun. It's free to enter — just bring some quarters!
### Patsy's Candy
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Patsy's Candy, a Manitou Springs institution since 1907. Famous for their handmade saltwater taffy, Patsy's has been crafting candies using the same traditional recipes for over a century. Watch the taffy being pulled and stretched on vintage machines, then pick up a bag (or three) to take home.
Manitou Springs Mineral Springs
Manitou Springs is named for its natural mineral springs, which have been celebrated for their healing properties for thousands of years. The town features multiple public springs, each with its own unique mineral composition and flavor. Some are fizzy, some are flat, some taste earthy, and some are surprisingly sweet. On our tour, we stop at several springs so you can taste for yourself and learn about the Ute and other Native American peoples who considered these waters sacred.
Tour Details
Our Manitou Springs eBike Tour is approximately 2 hours long, with our meeting point in Manitou Springs. The tour is designed to be accessible to riders of all skill levels — our pedal-assist eBikes make even the hilliest sections feel manageable.
### Full Itinerary — 17 Stops
1. Briarhurst Manor (10 min) — Start at this stunning Tudor-style estate, built in 1876 by the founder of Manitou Springs. Learn about the town's origins as a health resort.
2. Free Manitou Shuttle (5 min) — Learn about the town's free shuttle system that connects major attractions.
3. Sunwater Spa (5 min) — Pass by this unique spa that uses the town's natural mineral waters for soaking pools.
4. Cog Railway (10 min) — Stop at the base station of the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the highest railway in America.
5. Manitou Incline (10 min) — View the famous Incline trail and learn its history from cable car route to hiking phenomenon.
6. Wheeler Town Clock (5 min) — Admire this historic clock tower in the heart of downtown Manitou.
7. Penny Arcade (10 min) — Explore this vintage amusement hall with games dating back to the 1930s.
8. Patsy's Candy (5 min) — Sample handmade saltwater taffy at this 100+ year-old candy shop.
9. Cliff House Inn (10 min) — Learn about this grand Victorian hotel that has hosted presidents and celebrities since 1874.
10. Miramont Castle (10 min) — Take in the incredible architecture of this 33-room castle featuring 9 different styles.
11. Stratton Springs (5 min) — Taste the mineral spring water and learn about its unique properties.
12. Craftwood Inn (10 min) — Pass this charming 1912 building, originally a coppersmith's workshop.
13. Pikes Peak (10 min) — Stop for photos with America's Mountain towering in the background.
14. Kissing Camels (5 min) — View this iconic rock formation in Garden of the Gods.
15. Scenic Overlook (5 min) — Take in panoramic views of the red rocks and mountain landscape.
16. Balanced Rock (10 min) — Marvel at this gravity-defying geological wonder.
17. Garden of the Gods Trading Post (10–15 min if time permits) — Browse Native American art and souvenirs at this historic trading post.
What to Bring
- Jacket or layers — Mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures vary with elevation
- Sunscreen — Colorado's high altitude means stronger UV rays, even on cloudy days
- Water bottle — Stay hydrated, especially at elevation
- Closed-toe shoes — Essential for safe and comfortable riding
- Camera — You'll want to capture every moment of this stunning tour
Safety First
Your safety is our top priority. Every rider is provided with a helmet and a thorough safety briefing before we set out. Our trained guides are certified in first aid and know these routes inside and out. Our pedal-assisted eBikes are regularly maintained and inspected before every tour, ensuring a smooth and reliable ride.
Book Your Manitou Springs eBike Tour
Manitou Springs is a place where every turn reveals something new — a hidden spring, a stunning rock formation, a piece of living history. And experiencing it all from the saddle of an eBike, with the wind in your face and a knowledgeable guide by your side, is truly something special.
Ready to explore? Book your Manitou Springs eBike Tour with Ride Colorado today and discover why this is one of our most popular rides. Visit our website to reserve your spot and start your Colorado adventure!


