Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour

If you’re considering adding a splash of adventure to your Colorado Springs visit, the Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour might just be what you need. Though I haven’t tried it myself, this tour consistently earns glowing reviews and seems to pack quite a punch. It’s advertised as a family-friendly activity, but with enough adrenaline and scenic beauty to satisfy thrill-seekers of all ages.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views of the alpine canyon, which seem to leave most travelers with big smiles and a desire to do it all again. Plus, the fact that gear, hydration, and some tutorials are included makes this a hassle-free experience. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is about an hour and a half long, and the group size maxes out at just 8 people – which keeps things intimate but might feel a bit rushed if you’re craving a longer course.

This tour is probably best suited for those who want a fun, safe adventure with professional guidance, especially if they’re new to ziplining or traveling with family. If you’re okay with the active nature of the activity and have no issues at high elevations, it’s a solid choice. Now, let’s walk through what you can expect from this adventure in more detail.

Key Points

• Stunning scenic views of Colorado’s foothills and Pikes Peak foothills with ziplines over alpine canyon.
• Experienced guides who prioritize safety and keep the experience fun.
• All gear included—helmet, harness, trolley—plus tutorials, making it accessible for first-timers.
• Group size limited to 8 for personalized attention and smoother experience.
• Duration of about 1.5 hours makes it a manageable addition to your day.
• Age and weight restrictions ensure safety, so check if it’s suitable for everyone in your group.

The Experience at a Glance

The Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour takes you away from the city buzz and into the rugged beauty of Gregory Gulch. The whole setup is designed to offer a flexible, fun experience—whether you’re a thrill junkie or just looking to see some breathtaking views from a different angle.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start in Manitou Springs. This charming little town is the perfect launching pad, known for its quirky shops and historic charm. You’re then transported to the zipline course, perched high above the foothills at the base of Pikes Peak. The ride begins with a safety briefing, where guides explain the process and ensure everyone is comfortable before heading into the forested zone.

The course features five ziplines ranging from 225 to 650 feet. These are cliff-to-cliff, rustic-style lines with no towers—meaning you experience a more natural, less manufactured setting. Some reviews mention the ability to perform freestyle moves safely, which adds a touch of personal flair to the ride. Between ziplines, you’ll enjoy short nature hikes that offer a breather and the chance to soak in the scenery.

What You’ll Actually Do

Once geared up with helmets, harnesses, and trolleys, you’ll start with a quick tutorial—crucial for first-timers or anyone unfamiliar with ziplining. The guides make sure everyone knows what to do, and most reviews highlight their professionalism and friendliness.

The ziplines themselves are fast and exhilarating, with landing zones reaching speeds of up to 10 MPH. The views are consistently praised; reviewers rave about flying over the alpine canyon and enjoying vistas of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains. The course’s design, with no towers and a cliff-to-cliff approach, seems to provide a more natural and less intimidating experience for beginners, which explains why families with children find it especially appealing.

Safety and Comfort

Most reviews emphasize feeling safe, thanks to guides’ attentiveness and professionalism. The activity is active and involves walking around, with hikes totaling around half a mile. Participants need sturdy, closed-toe shoes and should be comfortable at high elevation (around 6,700 feet). The activity’s physical demands are modest but worth noting—being able to walk and talk comfortably is a must.

Group Dynamics and Duration

The tour is intimate, capped at 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. It lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, which is perfect for fitting into a day without it feeling too rushed or too long. Most travelers find this duration perfect for experiencing the thrill without fatigue or boredom setting in.

The Value for the Price

At $120 per person, this zipline adventure offers good value, especially considering all gear, safety measures, and guides are included. When you compare it to other outdoor activities in the area, it’s a fairly straightforward, hassle-free way to add some excitement. Reviews suggest that the guides are not only knowledgeable but also fun, keeping the mood light and lively, which adds to the overall value.

A common tip from reviewers is to book well in advance—about 19 days ahead on average—so you can secure your spot, especially during peak times. Also, since they offer souvenir photos (seasonally), those add a little extra but are optional.

The Downsides

The main consideration for many travelers is the speed of the experience. Some wish the course was a bit longer or had more ziplines. The hike and zipline sequence is efficient, but if you’re craving a more extensive course, this might feel a bit brief. Plus, as with all adventure activities, there are inherent risks—guides emphasize safety, but impacts during launch and landing do occur, so those with concerns about impacts or high-impact landings should consider this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This zipline tour is best for beginners, families with children over 6 (and over 40 pounds), and anyone seeking a scenic thrill in a safe environment. It’s also great if you want a half-day adventure that combines nature, excitement, and easy logistics. If you’re looking for a more extended, intense zipline experience, you might look elsewhere, but for a balanced, enjoyable outing, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old and weighing at least 40 pounds can participate, but they must wear sturdy shoes and be comfortable walking and talking at high elevation.

What is included in the price?
All gear—helmet, harness, trolley—plus tutorials and a local guide are provided. Transfers are shared round-trip, making it convenient.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which includes the safety briefing, ziplining, and short hikes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 19 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure their spot.

Are there any health or fitness requirements?
Participants should be able to walk and stand comfortably, as the activity involves hiking and active participation at high altitude.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour offers a compact, scenic, and enjoyable way to see Colorado’s stunning landscapes from above. With knowledgeable guides and a safe, well-maintained course, it’s an ideal choice for those new to ziplining or families looking for a memorable adventure. While some might wish for a longer course or more ziplines, most feel the experience’s quality outweighs its duration.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and well-organized outdoor activity that won’t stretch your day too thin, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially great for first-timers, travelers with kids, or anyone wanting a taste of Colorado’s rugged beauty with a side of adrenaline.

Remember

Always check age, weight restrictions, and physical readiness before booking. And don’t forget to book ahead so you can secure a spot on this popular adventure. Happy flying!