If you haven't read part 1 of our weekend trip to Colorado, check out all the fun restaurants and outdoor activities we covered. Part two covers the last 2-3 days of our trip: Hiking the Incline, the train ride of what dreams are made of + coffee + more coffee.
- The Royal Gorge Route Railroad: The most fun thing we had done ever, ever. The views are spectacular. It's about an hour or so from where we stayed in the springs but the views from the car ride were amazing, we had nothing to complain about and the food was amazing. We paid for the most expensive car but think we would've also had a great time in the less expensive cars as well. Order a flight of beer to try the local the brews + the salmon dinner (best salmon we've ever had!)
- From there we drove around a bit and made it to the top of the gorge. We could've paid a ridiculous amount of money to cross the bridge but we settled for views from the parking lot which were equally as good.
- Cerberus Brewing Company: Amazing burgers and brews-- try the Classic with white cheddar and roasted red pepper mayo on an artisan bun.
- Denver Biscuit Co. : Instagram-worthy breakfast sandwiches with a view. We loved the Lola (Buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, honey butter and maple syrup) and bottom-less cups of coffee
- Story Coffee Company: Stopped here on our last day. Super cute place. It's literally a trailer with a little deck and the most perfect view of Pike's Peak.
- Manitou Incline:
- I won't sugar coat it. This is a really difficult climb. There are a few areas to stop and catch your breath (while you watch the 70 y/o regulars that climb up with no problem at all). The last few hundred steps were by far the most physically challenging thing I'd ever done. I thought I was going to fall backwards and tumble down the steps a majority of the time.
- The entire hike up is about 2,000 ft. of elevation gain in just over 1 mile.
- Bring your A-game, bring your water and leave the whining at home so you can check this hike off your bucket list and marvel at the amazing views at the top.
- You may even meet some friends along the way! We met two other couples on the way up, close in age to us that also live near our hometowns.
///
We had SO much fun on this trip and can't wait to visit other areas of Colorado again, soon! Have you been to the Springs?
If you're planning a trip out to Colorado Springs soon, here are a handful of things we didn't get to on our list:
