Santa Fe Trail Closed Through US Airforce Academy – 2026
The Airforce Academy Santa Fe Trail segment is currently closed due to heightened security measures, disrupting the crucial trail link between Monument and Colorado Springs. This closure began March 1 2026 with the KKTV article stating that Santa Fe Trail through the USAFA “will be closed until further notice.” Read USAFA Press Release here .
Absence of Safe Detours Presents Significant Challenge
While we understand the security rational, this highlights the importance of additional bike connections in northern Colorado springs as this is the only safe trail connecting Colorado Springs with Monument. As with previous, temporary closures, the severity of this situation is worsened by the lack of safe, convenient detours for cyclists and pedestrians. The immediate shutdown of this vital trail segment underscores the urgent necessity for redundant and resilient bike routes within our region; in this case an additional north/south trail near I-25. Such infrastructure is crucial to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
Info on accessing the USAFA available here/press release here
Importance of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail
It’s important to remember that seven miles of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail traverse the USAFA facility via an easement and are maintained by El Paso County Parks. This trail, along with the Pikes Peak Greenway and Fountain Creek Regional Trail, are integral parts of the Front Range Trail, a visionary project aimed at connecting Wyoming to New Mexico along Colorado’s Front Range.
Advocating for Enhanced Infrastructure
Bike Colorado Springs will continue to strongly advocate that local and regional leaders prioritize the development of redundant bike routes. Here’s how we’re pushing for change and how you can help:
- Get involved with the 2026 Colorado Springs Parks Master Plan: Your input shapes the future of trail projects.
- Advocating for new connections: We’re asking for the creation of safer north/south bike/pedestrian connections east of I-25. (how to voice your support)
- Expediting projects: We’re pushing to accelerate existing and new trail projects to minimize the impact of future disruptions and ensure resilient transportation options for our community.
Stay Updated
We will diligently monitor the situation and provide updates on this website and our social media channels as soon as information regarding the trail’s reopening becomes available.
Links and Sources
Fox 21 News – Enhanced security measures implemented at U.S.A.F.A.
KKTV – Air Force Academy adjusts access procedures
El Paso County Parks – New Santa Fe Regional Trail page
US Air Force Academy – New Santa Fe Regional trail information page
Colorado Springs Parks – Legacy Loop Page (Including Pike Peak Greenway)
El Paso County Parks – Fountain Creek Regional Trail Page
Trail and Open Space Coalition – Front Range Trail information page
Colorado Sun – Front Range Trail article from 2021
