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A regional access trail that parallels Interstate 25 from Palmer Lake to northern Colorado Springs.


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Map Key

19.9

Miles

32.0

KM

Point to Point

7,237' 2,206 m

High

6,199' 1,889 m

Low

1,120' 341 m

Up

89' 27 m

Down

1%

Avg Grade (1°)

4%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Public access to the Air Force Academy's trails and trailheads varies and may be restricted due to the base's Force Protection conditions and other random security measures. Trail users are encouraged to recreate with a partner or in a group. Cyclists must wear a helmet.

Description

The New Santa Fe Regional Trail connects the Tri-Lakes area (Palmer Lake, Woodmoor, Monument) and northern Colorado Springs following the historic, right-of-way of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. The wide, gravel trail offers a panoramic view of the Rampart Range and Air Force Academy grounds.

Sections follow along Monument Creek and some of the best remaining riparian habitat in the region. This regional pathway largely parallels Interstate 25 and continues along an easement through the eastern portions of the Air Force Academy. Be sure to stay on the trail for the seven mile stretch that runs through the Air Force Academy.

As part of the American Discovery Trail, the New Santa Fe Trail provides access to numerous trails east and west along the corridor between Palmer Lake and Colorado Springs. You'll enjoy view of the mountains and Pikes Peak along the way.

Contacts

Land Manager: El Paso County Parks

Shared By:

Brian Mihlbachler

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 6 votes

#23424

Overall
  3.7 from 6 votes
5 Star
17%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
50%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1,806

in Colorado

#23,424

Overall
8 Views Last Month
2,193 Since Mar 1, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

67%
17%
0%
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17%
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Photos

Aug 14,1909 there was a head on collision involving a north and south bound train at this site. The remains are still there.
Aug 22, 2016 near Air For…, CO
Scenic run along the creek
Jan 11, 2020 near Air For…, CO

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Check-Ins

Feb 2, 2021
Debbie Ross
Teresa lunch Speed Trap — 1h 45m
May 2, 2020
Colin Sandlin
Sep 5, 2019
Private User
Sep 11, 2018
Greg Stewart
Started at the designated trailhead near the south. Jogged 1.6 miles north, then turned around. Saw a snake! 3.2mi
Apr 29, 2018
Private User
Feb 22, 2018
Eric Most
Great trail! 4.9mi
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