The Manitou E-Bike Tour

In short: Manitou Springs: Garden of the Gods E-Bike Tour lasts 2 hours in English, with up to 16 per group, and meets at 306 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs. According to its listing, a safety briefing and bike tutorial come first, then bike paths and trails through Garden of the Gods, a taste of mineral spring water and a visit to the Victorian Miramont Castle. The listing gives ages 13 to 80.
What it is
A guided e-bike ride that starts in Manitou Springs, the town next to the park's south-west side, and takes in both the park and the town. The guide covers the geology and history, and the listing mentions a view of the historic train from a distance.
The ride, as the listing gives it
- Safety briefing and bike tutorial: at the Manitou Ave meeting point.
- Bike paths and trails through Garden of the Gods: with stops for commentary.
- The historic train: seen from a distance.
- Mineral spring water: a sample. Manitou Springs has free public mineral springs; Colorado Public Radio counts 8.
- Miramont Castle: the Victorian castle begun in 1895, built in nine architectural styles.
What it adds to a free park
Garden of the Gods is a free city park, owned by the City of Colorado Springs since 1909, and a National Natural Landmark since 1971. Entry needs no ticket, parking is free, and anyone with a car can drive the park's one-way loop of about 6 miles at 20 mph; is it free covers the details. The park roads have paved bike lanes, and e-bikes can be rented at the Visitor Center for a self-guided ride. This tour adds a guide, a route that joins the park to Manitou Springs, and the stops in town. Manitou Springs covers the town.
Who it suits, and who should look elsewhere
Suits
- Riders aged 13 to 80 who are comfortable on a bike.
- Visitors staying in or around Manitou Springs: the tour meets on Manitou Ave.
- Visitors who want the park and Miramont Castle in one outing.
Look elsewhere if
- Children under 13, people with back problems or non-cyclists: the listing states that it is not suitable.
- Anyone who wants a smaller group: the listing allows up to 16. The Segway tour is limited to 5.
- Wheelchair users: the listing does not state wheelchair access.
Included, and not stated
Included
- Electric bike
- Helmet
- Bottled water
- Safety briefing and bike tutorial
Not included or not stated
- Photos
- Meals
- Entry inside Miramont Castle: not stated in the listing
What travellers mention
Gary from the United States describes an exhilarating two hours and top equipment. Kevin from the United States says the guide felt like a friend. Ellyce from the United States mentions a day out with her husband, and Rebecca from the United States says the guide made sure everyone was comfortable on the bikes before setting off.
Practical notes
Start times: check the calendar in the booking widget. The listing asks riders to bring a hat, a camera, sunscreen and water, and it uses a mobile ticket. Manitou Springs sits at 6,412 ft and the park at about 6,400 ft, so the sun is strong; summer afternoon storms can form within minutes, according to the park.
The listing includes bottled water but not meals, so lunch before or after the ride is a separate plan.
Two alternatives
Max 5 guestsColorado Springs: Garden of the Gods Segway Tour
Max 6 guestsColorado Springs: Garden of the Gods and Foothills Jeep Tour
Frequently asked questions
Where does the e-bike tour meet?
At 306 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, according to the listing. Manitou Springs is next to the park's south-west side.
What ages can join the e-bike tour?
Ages 13 to 80, per the listing. It states that the tour is not suitable for children under 13, people with back problems or non-cyclists.
Does the e-bike tour visit Miramont Castle?
Yes. The listing includes a visit to the Victorian Miramont Castle in Manitou Springs, along with a sample of mineral spring water.
Can e-bikes be rented without a tour?
Yes. E-bike rentals are available at the Visitor Center, according to the park, and the park roads have paved bike lanes. The best way to see it covers riding the park independently.