Riding the Front Range: Zipping Over Gregory Gulch at Manitou Springs
Five cliff-to-cliff zips above Gregory Gulch—fast, scenic, and perfectly sized for a Front Range day trip.
The first line wastes no time. You clip in, lean back, and the world rearranges itself: the jagged nose of Pikes Peak slides into the frame, the roofs of Manitou Springs shrink below, and a canyon wind nudges you forward. For 225 to 650 feet at a stretch you are suspended between Colorado stone and sky, a human arrow arcing above scrub oak and sandstone ledges. The course—carved along the cliffs of Gregory Gulch—moves with a pulse: brief hikes that reset your senses, then the sudden lull and rush of another zipline. In ninety minutes the Front Range teaches you a few lessons about scale and speed and the clean, immediate thrill of being outdoors.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Hydrated
Drink water before you show up—altitude plus adrenaline drains your reserves fast.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy sneakers with good grip keep you stable on rocky approach trails and at landing platforms.
Book Morning Slots
Mornings are cooler and less windy, which makes the ziplines ride smoother and the views clearer.
Bring Thin Gloves
Thin, dexterous gloves increase comfort when handling harness hardware and braking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Barr Trail viewpoints for close-up Pikes Peak perspectives
- •The Manitou Incline viewing areas (watch from below if you don’t climb)
Wildlife
Red-tailed hawk, Mule deer
Conservation Note
The course is sited to minimize new construction—stay on established trails and avoid disturbing cliff-side vegetation and bird nesting sites.
Manitou Springs grew around natural mineral springs in the 19th century and served as a gateway to Pikes Peak tourism and early Colorado railway routes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers, Cooler temps for activity
Challenges: Variable spring storms, Occasional muddy trails
Spring brings green shoots in the gulch and moderate temps, but be ready for sudden showers and wet trail sections.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Clear views of Pikes Peak
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers, Afternoon thunderstorms
Summer is peak season—book ahead and favor morning runs to avoid afternoon storms and crowds.
fall
Best for: Crisp air and color, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Cool mornings, Shorter daylight hours
Early fall offers stable weather and clearer horizons; temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
winter
Best for: Snow-dusted scenery, Lower crowds
Challenges: Cold temps and icy platforms, Occasional cancellations due to weather
Winter can be magical but cold—operators may cancel if winds or ice make lines unsafe.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Trail ShoesEssential
Provide traction on approach trails and stable landings at platforms.
Thin Leather or Synthetic Gloves
Improve comfort while handling harness attachments and braking.
Lightweight Wind LayerEssential
Keeps you warm between lines when canyon winds pick up.
Hydration Pack or Water BottleEssential
Altitude and activity dehydrate quickly—bring water for before and after the tour.
Common Questions
How long is the zipline tour?
The full experience takes about 90 minutes including safety briefing, short nature hikes between lines, and the five ziplines that range from 225 to 650 feet.
Are there age or weight limits?
Specific age and weight restrictions are set by the operator—check their booking page when you reserve. Children are typically allowed when accompanied by an adult and meeting weight/minimum height requirements.
Is previous zipline experience required?
No—guides provide a safety briefing and practice runs. Basic comfort with heights and short hikes is helpful.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection are recommended; bring gloves if you have sensitive hands.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be delayed or canceled for high winds, lightning, or icy conditions; operators prioritize safety and will offer rescheduling or refunds per their policy.
Can I bring a camera or phone?
Most operators restrict loose items on the lines for safety; some offer photos or have guide-held cameras—ask at check-in about options.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes, thin gloves, water bottle, layered wind/sun protection
Did You Know
Pikes Peak inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write ‘America the Beautiful’ after visiting the summit in 1893.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots to avoid afternoon winds; drive from Colorado Springs (20–25 minutes); carry cash for small local purchases; check operator cancellation policy before booking.
Local Flavor
After your zips, stroll Canon Avenue in downtown Manitou Springs for local cafes and breweries—Adam’s Mountain Cafe and Manitou Brewing Company are reliable post-adventure picks for hearty fare and cold beer.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Colorado Springs Airport (COS); Trailhead/meeting point: Manitou Springs (Gregory Gulch area); Driving distance from Colorado Springs downtown: ~15–25 minutes; Cell service: generally good in town, variable on canyon trails; Permits/Passes: none required for the tour itself—reserve in advance.
Sustainability Note
This course uses established anchors and existing trails—pack out what you bring, stick to marked paths, and avoid disturbing cliff and riparian habitats to keep the gulch healthy.
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