Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour

If you’re looking for a way to mix adventure with breathtaking scenery during your visit to Colorado Springs, the Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour could be just what you need. This guided ziplining experience offers a chance to soar over rugged terrain, enjoy stunning views of the Front Range, and engage in a fun activity that’s suitable for many ages and skill levels. While it may not be a long or extreme course, it’s packed with enough excitement and natural beauty to leave a memorable impression.

What we like most about this tour is how accessible and well-organized it is. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which adds comfort whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrill-seeker. Plus, the stunning mountain vistas and the chance to zipline over Gregory Gulch offer a unique perspective of Colorado’s natural splendor. The only potential downside is that the experience is somewhat short—about 90 minutes—and might leave avid zipliners wishing for a longer course. Still, for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a safe yet exhilarating taste of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

This adventure is best suited for those who want a taste of Colorado’s outdoor thrill without a lengthy commitment. It’s perfect for families with children (most ages 6 and up), couples looking for a fun day out, or anyone curious to try ziplining for the first time in a safe environment. Prepare for a lively, scenic, and well-supported experience that keeps safety and fun front and center.

Key Points

• Guided experience with knowledgeable and friendly guides.
• Breathtaking views of Colorado’s foothills and Pikes Peak.
• A course designed to be accessible, safe, and customizable for different thrill levels.
• Includes all necessary gear and safety tutorials.
• Short, approximately 90-minute adventure perfect for families and beginners.
• Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

The Setting: Manitou Springs and Gregory Gulch

Located at the foot of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is a charming mountain town known for its mineral springs, quirky shops, and vibrant arts scene. The zipline course itself is perched atop Gregory Gulch, offering an exhilarating way to view the area’s rugged natural beauty. You’ll get a different perspective compared to traditional sightseeing—launching from cliff to cliff across a natural terrain, with no towers to climb, just a rustic, cliff-to-cliff style course.

This natural setting makes the tour particularly appealing. Instead of a manufactured amusement ride, you’re zipping across real rocky outcroppings, with the forest and canyon below providing a stunning backdrop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Manitou Springs

The adventure begins in the town of Manitou Springs, a delightful base for your day of outdoor fun. After a short shared transfer (which makes logistics simple), you arrive at the course perched in Gregory Gulch. Here, your guides will gear you up and explain what to expect, ensuring you’re comfortable before heading out.

The Zipline Course: Five Rides, Varying Lengths

The course features five ziplines with lengths ranging from 225 feet to 650 feet. This variation means you’ll experience a mix of quick, adrenaline-pumping rides and longer, more scenic flights. The course’s rustic design—cliff to cliff, no towers—adds a touch of adventure and authenticity. Between ziplines, there are a couple of short nature hikes, giving your legs a break and allowing you to take in the scenery.

The Experience: What to Expect

As you zip across the canyon, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the alpine landscape. The guides encourage a freestyle approach, so if you’re feeling brave, you might try some fun moves as you fly through the air—safety first, of course, but it’s nice to know you’re encouraged to be a little adventurous.

Reviewers mention feeling safe and well-supported throughout. One noted, “The guides were great. Felt safe and they were very knowledgeable,” which highlights the professionalism of the staff. Others rave about the fun atmosphere: “They kept us laughing the whole trip,” showing that this isn’t just a safety experience but also a fun social activity.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, which is enough time for multiple rides, gear-up, and some breaks. The maximum group size is eight travelers, making it a more intimate, personalized outing. This small group size tends to foster a relaxed environment where guides can give more attention and keep safety tight.

Gear, Safety, and Accessibility

All necessary gear—helmet, harness, trolley—is included, so you don’t need to worry about packing anything special. The tour is designed to be accessible for most people, with most travelers able to participate. However, there are some restrictions: riders must be between 40 and 250 pounds, over 6 years old, and able to walk and stand at high elevation (about 6,700 feet). Guests are required to wear sturdy closed-toe shoes—flip-flops or sandals are not allowed.

The guides are praised for their safety knowledge and friendly attitude, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. One reviewer mentioned, “Ben and Eric were fun, they were good at keeping it fun. I felt very safe,” which underscores the importance of good instruction and support.

Pricing and Value

At $120 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes all gear, a guide, and shared transportation. It’s a half-day of fun that provides a memorable outdoor experience, especially for those new to ziplining. Compared to longer or more extreme courses, this one strikes a balance between thrill, scenery, and safety—a good choice for many travelers.

Authentic Reviews and What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating from 71 travelers. Common praise points include the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, the safety measures in place, and the stunning views. Several mention that it’s great for families: “This was my kids and husband’s first time ziplining and they all loved it,” or “It was their favorite part of the trip.”

Some reviewers note the experience feels a little fast-paced, wishing for a longer course, but they still recommend it highly. Others appreciate the personal touch: “Nolon and James kept us laughing,” and “The guides were great,” reinforcing that the staff make a big difference.

Practical Details for Travelers

• Confirmation is received immediately upon booking.
• The tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather may lead to cancellation and rescheduling.
• Cancellation policy offers a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
• Most participants find the activity manageable, but those with health concerns should consult their doctor beforehand.
• The maximum group size of 8 ensures a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

This zipline adventure appeals most to those seeking a manageable yet exhilarating outdoor activity. Families with children over 6 will find it accessible and memorable. First-time zipliners will appreciate the safety focus and supportive guides. Adventure seekers who want a short but scenic experience will enjoy the combination of adrenaline and spectacular views. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized service rather than large tour buses.

The Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour offers a well-rounded adventure that balances safety, scenery, and fun. It’s particularly suited for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a quick, scenic thrill in the Colorado Springs area. With knowledgeable guides leading the way and views that make your heart race—in a good way—this tour provides an authentic taste of Colorado’s outdoor spirit.

While it’s not the longest or most extreme zipline course, its intimate size and natural setting make it an engaging experience. If you’re looking to add some adventure to your trip without committing to a full-day expedition, this tour will give you a memorable dose of Colorado’s rugged charm, all wrapped up in a safe, cheerful package.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old can participate, provided they meet the weight requirements (at least 40 lbs) and are able to walk and stand at high elevation.

What should I wear?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes are required. Avoid sandals or flip-flops. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and possibly variable weather conditions.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Participants must weigh between 40 and 250 pounds to ensure safety on the zipline.

How long does the tour last?
The entire adventure lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, including gear-up, transfers, and the zipping experience itself.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip shared transfers are part of the package, simplifying logistics.

What do I need to bring?
All gear is provided, so just arrive prepared to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for outdoor activity.

Can I buy photos of my experience?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase from Labor Day through Memorial Day.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.

Whether you’re seeking a safe introduction to ziplining or simply want a scenic outdoor thrill, the Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour offers an engaging, well-run outing that’s worth considering for your Colorado Springs visit.