Self-Guided Podcast Tour: The Gilded Waters of Manitou

Step into a narrow mountain valley where warring tribes once laid down their weapons to listen to the breath of the Great Spirit—and where Gilded Age tycoons later tried to bottle it. Join scholar Anna and local friend Sergio along Manitou Springs' winding canyon streets. Taste naturally carbonated waters from historic fonts, uncover Victorian health hustles, and explore stone spring houses that blend ancient folklore with Gilded Age ambition. - A 2.1 km self-guided tour with 6 stops over 84 min - Ideal for travelers interested in Spirituality, Myth & Nature and History & Memory - Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals - Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app

1. 1

   Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum

   10 min

   Houses historical artifacts, antique bottling apparatus, and records documenting tribal interactions and Gilded Age marketing of the mineral waters.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   10 min

   Located near Soda Springs Park, this spring was drilled in 1890 by mining tycoon Jerome Wheeler, exemplifying the commercial development of the waters during the town's Victorian boom.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   Famous for its high mineral and sulfur content, historically revered by Native tribes and later utilized in Victorian health regimens for its therapeutic qualities.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10 min

   A naturally bubbling sweet-water spring enclosed in a historic stone pavilion, revered by the Cheyenne and Ute as sacred ground where conflicting tribes laid down weapons.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10 min

   A naturally lithium-rich spring favored by modern residents for its mild effervescence and pleasant flavor, linking historic spring rituals to present-day local usage.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   10 min

   Situated in Ruxton Canyon, this iron-rich spring anchored Manitou's bottling industry and served as a focal point for early health seekers climbing toward Pikes Peak.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.