Manitou Incline Training Program for Women in Colorado
Ladies:
Are you ready...to
STEP UP?
WOMEN STEPPING UP
Women Stepping Up is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping women seeking motivation to step up to the challenge of climbing the Manitou Springs Incline to be empowered to do so with support, training, and companionship. We are seeking both Novice program participants and Veteran program participants
so please read on if you are interested in applying as either!
The way our program works is that for a nominal fee of $20, Novice program members will be paired with experienced Incline Veterans and after eight weeks of progressive physical training and mentoring, participants will successfully climb the 2768 steps of the Incline together!
Our hope is that those who successfully step onto the top stair of the Manitou Springs Incline at the end of the program will not only have improved fitness and strength but will also feel empowered to maintain regular physical activity and have the courage and confidence to pursue the next challenge that awaits!
DETAILS ABOUT THE PROGRAM
If you've never climbed the beautiful but challenging Manitou Incline and would like to do so with a group of supportive women and in a state of improved fitness and strength, this program is for YOU and you will be a NOVICE participant. Requirements are that you commit to spending 8 weeks improving your fitness for the climb as you follow a simple and progressive training plan with guidance and support from your Incline Veteran AND that you are available to achieve the climb on the chosen date. Some of the training will need to be done on the days and times that work for you - in a setting that is convenient for you. Additionally, there will be weekly opportunities to hike, climb stairs, and strength train with others in the group during the training period. Coming alongside each novice, is a supportive and encouraging female who has climbed the Incline successfully before (an Incline VETERAN) who will provide personalized advice as you train and will then be at your side on the day of the Incline ascent.
This is a rare opportunity - please join us if you are ready to step up!
NOVICE CLIMBERS: (you've never climbed the Incline):
Please use the link below to apply after you've confirmed your availability for the two mandatory dates.
VETERAN CLIMBERS: (you are an experienced Incline user): and are interested in offering support, encouragement and companionship to a beginner, please apply to the program using the link below as a VETERAN, after you have confirmed that you are available for the two mandatory program dates listed below.
IMPORTANT DATES
2/15/2026-2/27/2026
Applications for both novice and veteran participants are accepted.
3/4/2026
Selected applicants are notified of acceptance into the program
Week of 3/23/2026
Training begins and continues through 5/16/2026
​
5/13/2026 at 6:00 PM
***MANDATORY ATTENDANCE***
Stepping Up Send Off Meeting
5/16/2026
***MANDATORY ATTENDANCE***
Stepping Up to the top of the Incline Day!
READY TO JOIN US?
Apply Now!
NOVICE CLIMBERS:
Applications will be open here on 2/15/2026 - 2/27/2026
​
VETERAN CLIMBERS:
Applications will be open here on 2/15/2026 - 2/27/2026
Hear from Past Participants
"I moved to Colorado Springs in 2021 and making it to the top of the famous Manitou Incline was a dream I wasn't sure was possible and I kept pushing it off. Finding the program, applying and being accepted to climb with Women Stepping Up was truly life changing for me. The program prepares you mentally and physically for the climb but the most amazing part is getting to be a part of a group of strong women with the same goals and ambitions and witnessing everyone tackle the challenge of the Incline alongside each other. The support provided by my veteran was also absolutely invaluable. She helped me to believe in myself and helped me overcome fears that held me back from attempting the Incline on my own. The entire experience helped me grow in ways that were completely unexpected. I will forever be grateful for my experience with Women Stepping Up and will always carry the memories, confidence and lessons learned from my amazing journey to the top! " Victoria - 2025 Novice
Questions?
Please feel free to contact our program administrator at the email listed below or you may fill out the form here. We will get back to you as soon as we can!