Santa Fe Trail Through US Airforce Academy Restrictions
New Santa Fe Trail Through USAFA Open with Restrictions
The Santa Fe Trail and La Forete trail through the US AirForce Academy are currently open from sun up to sun down. Riders must stay on the trail.
Statement from USAFA Security Official:
“The trails close on the rare occasions that our threat posture increases, and we don’t want civilians on the property for a multitude of reasons. In this instance, the gate will be closed and locked and signs will be posted. The trails also close on graduation day due to the show box (thunderbird air show). We don’t want people under their operation area in case of an in flight emergency. This is an FAA requirement and we will also close and lock the gates in addition to posting signage.“
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 Jan 6 2025, and has since reopened from sun up to sun down with the restriction that trail users must remain on the trail. We are thankful for the reopening as there are limited safe bike detours available.
Info on accessing the USAFA available here
We are actively reaching out to the USAFA, El Paso County, and the City of Colorado Springs to gain a clearer understanding of the duration of this closure and explore potential solutions, such as safer cycling and walking routes on the east side of I-25, to minimize the impact of future closures on the New Santa Fe Regional Trail.
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.
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 – US Airforce Academy updated access requirements
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
