Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour

Discover the thrills and stunning scenery of the Colorado Rockies with the Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour. Priced at $120 per person and lasting about 1 hour 30 minutes, this adventure takes you soaring over Gregory Gulch, a scenic canyon at the foot of Pikes Peak. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll zip across five different lines, ranging from 225 to 650 feet, offering a mix of excitement, natural beauty, and a touch of rugged Colorado charm.

What we love most about this tour is how well it balances adventure with accessibility. First, the full gear and safety tutorials ensure even beginners feel confident, and the no-tower design offers a rustic, cliff-to-cliff experience that feels more authentic and less commercialized. Second, the spectacular views — especially flying high above the alpine canyon with a backdrop of Pikes Peak — make it a memorable way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Front Range.

One thing to consider is that ziplining is an active activity. It requires walking on uneven terrain, possibly hiking half a mile between lines, and landing speeds can reach up to 10 MPH. This might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or who prefer less physically demanding activities.

This tour is best suited for families with children over 6 years, adventure lovers, and anyone craving a safe but exhilarating outdoor experience. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and breathtaking vistas, you’ll find plenty to love here—based on glowing reviews from past participants.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Zipping over Gregory Gulch provides a unique perspective of Colorado’s rugged beauty.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids over 6, with safety as a top priority.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Nolan and James receive high praise for their knowledge and fun attitude.
• Safe & Well-Equipment: All gear is provided, and the course is fully licensed and insured.
• Active Experience: Requires walking, a half-mile hike, and active participation.
• Group Size: Small groups of up to 8 travelers allow for personalized attention.

A Closer Look at the Manitou Springs Zipline Experience

The Location and Setting

Starting in the charming town of Manitou Springs, this zipline tour offers a step away from crowded city streets into the peaceful, forested terrain below Pikes Peak. The town itself, often praised as “so cute” in reviews, makes a perfect base for exploring the area before or after your adventure. From the first moment, you’ll feel the contrast: urban life fades into natural tranquility as you head to Gregory Gulch for the real action.

The Itinerary and Course Details

Your journey begins with a round-trip shared transfer from Colorado Springs, making logistics straightforward for visitors staying in town. Once at the site, you’ll meet your local guide—applauded for their friendliness and expertise—who will gear you up and explain the safety measures.

The course itself is a rustic cliff-to-cliff style, with no towers involved—just natural terrain and a series of five ziplines. The lines vary in length from 225 feet to 650 feet, giving a mix of quick rushes and longer, more scenic flights. Between zips, there are short nature hikes, adding a bit of exploration and natural immersion.

What sets this course apart is its focus on freestyle moves, allowing thrill-seekers to try some basic tricks if they wish, all under supervision. This makes it appealing not only for families but also for those wanting a bit more adventure.

Guide Experience and Safety

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially Nolan and James, for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. Many reviews mention feeling very safe and well-supported, even for first-timers or those with specific health concerns. The gear, including helmets, harnesses, and trolleys, is provided, and the course is fully licensed and insured—a key point when choosing a reputable operation.

The Views and Experience

One of the biggest highlights? The spectacular vistas. As you fly over Gregory Gulch, you’ll catch sweeping views of the Rockies, with Pikes Peak looming majestically in the background. Several reviewers describe the experience as “so cool” and “a total blast,” noting that the views are unforgettable.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the atmosphere feels intimate and personalized. You won’t be rushed, and the guides can give plenty of attention to your safety and enjoyment. Many travelers appreciate the small group setting, which makes for a more relaxed, engaging experience.

Duration and Cost-Value Analysis

At just over an hour and a half, this tour offers a solid dose of adrenaline and scenery for $120. Considering the included gear, guides, transportation, and the thrill of flying across multiple lines, most guests agree it’s a good value—especially for a memorable outdoor adventure with professional oversight.

Who Will Love It?

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s accessible and safe, yet still provides an adrenaline rush and amazing views, this tour hits the mark. Families with children over 6 will find it particularly suitable, as well as solo travelers or couples eager to experience Colorado’s outdoors from a new perspective.

The Sum Up: Is the Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour Right for You?

This zipline experience offers a well-organized, safe, and scenic way to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty. The combination of expert guides, great scenery, and manageable physical requirements makes it stand out as a top choice for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. It’s especially fitting for families, first-time zipliners, or anyone who appreciates a mix of thrill and landscape.

You’ll love the sense of freedom flying over the forest, the friendly guides making everyone feel comfortable, and the picturesque setting that turns a simple activity into a highlight of your trip.

For those who crave a safe-to-explore outdoor activity that offers both adventure and stunning views, this tour delivers all that and more. Be sure to book in advance—most travelers plan about three weeks ahead—and prepare for a lively, scenic, and fun-filled half-day in Colorado’s breath-taking mountains.

FAQs

Is there an age limit for ziplining?
Yes, riders need to be at least 6 years old to participate, ensuring that children are sturdy enough for the active elements of the course.

What should I wear?
Guests are required to wear sturdy closed-toe shoes—flip flops or sandals are not allowed—since the activity involves walking and hikes over uneven terrain.

How physically demanding is the tour?
While the activity is active, it mainly involves walking, hiking about half a mile, and zipping. Participants should be able to walk and talk comfortably at high altitude (over 6,700 ft).

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, participants must weigh between 40 lbs and 250 lbs. This helps ensure safety and proper gear fit.

What about safety?
All gear is provided, and the course is fully licensed, insured, and inspected regularly. Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, aiming to make the experience safe and enjoyable.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The tour provider will offer a different date if weather conditions cancel the activity.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 travelers per group keeps the experience intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all gear, safety instructions, guides, and round-trip shared transportation from Colorado Springs.