The best cycling routes around Air Force Academy
5.0
(22)
919
riders
60
rides
Touring cycling routes around Air Force Academy traverse the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, featuring a mix of paved multi-use paths and gravel sections. The landscape includes open plains, creek beds, and areas of scrubland, with moderate elevation changes. Many trails provide views of the surrounding mountains and the Air Force Academy grounds, connecting urban parks with natural corridors.
Best touring cycling routes around Air Force Academy
- The most popular touring cycling route is Falcon Trail Loop, a 12.7 miles (20.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 7 minutes to complete. This moderate loop offers varied terrain within the Air Force Academy grounds.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is New Santa Fe and Cottonwood Creek Trails, a moderate 30.1 miles (48.4 km) path. This route follows creek beds and offers a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces through varied scenery.
- Local touring cyclists also love the John Venezia Community Park & Cottonwood Creek Park loop via Mary Kyer Park, a 22.2 miles (35.7 km) trail leading through urban parks and natural creek areas, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Air Force Academy is defined by foothill trails, creekside paths, and paved multi-use trails. The network offers options for easy family-friendly bike routes as well as more challenging moderate trails.
- The routes in Air Force Academy are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Air Force Academy's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
64
riders
20.5km
02:07
390m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
39
riders
30.5km
01:57
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22
riders
30.2km
02:07
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
14.6km
00:59
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Monument Creek is a 27‑mile stream flowing south from Mount Deception. This section of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail follows the creek for several miles.
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The New Santa Fe Regional Trail is an 18‑mile rail‑trail from Palmer Lake down to northern Colorado Springs. The trail is made of crushed stone and has great views of the nearby mountains.
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One of the three lakes located in the Tri-Lakes area, this lake is the northernmost and is situated in the town of Palmer Lake. There's a pleasant trail encircling the lake, where you'll often find people fishing and enjoying the surroundings. If you plan to fish here, be sure to have your Colorado State fishing license.
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Embark on the trail to witness the Academy's natural and man-made wonders. Crossroads provide shorter riding options. Encounter the historic Burgess Cabin, erected in 1870, with five nearby Capps family gravesites. Leash your dogs, and cyclists, ride with a partner. Opt for the less strenuous clockwise route.
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One of the three lakes located in the Tri-Lakes area, this lake is the northernmost and is situated in the town of Palmer Lake. There's a pleasant trail encircling the lake, where you'll often find people fishing and enjoying the surroundings. If you plan to fish here, be sure to have your Colorado State fishing license.
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When you're at Palmer Lake Regional Recreation Area, you're halfway there. Its lake, lawns and picnic area are perfect for a short break before heading back.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Air Force Academy?
There are over 65 touring cycling routes around the Air Force Academy, offering a diverse range of experiences. This includes 24 easy routes, 30 moderate routes, and 11 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes here?
The routes around Air Force Academy traverse the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, featuring a mix of paved multi-use paths and some gravel sections. You'll encounter open plains, creek beds, and areas of scrubland, with moderate elevation changes. Many trails offer views of the surrounding mountains and the Air Force Academy grounds.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Air Force Academy area offers several easy and family-friendly touring cycling routes. These often utilize paved multi-use paths and have moderate elevation changes. A good option for a family-friendly ride is the John Venezia Community Park & Cottonwood Creek Park loop via Mary Kyer Park, which leads through urban parks and natural creek areas.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
While many routes are moderate, there are 11 more difficult touring cycling routes available for experienced riders seeking a greater challenge. These routes may feature more significant elevation changes or longer distances.
Are the touring cycling routes mostly paved or gravel?
The touring cycling routes around Air Force Academy offer a mix of surfaces. You'll find many paved multi-use paths, but some routes also incorporate gravel sections, particularly those following creek beds or traversing more natural areas. Routes like New Santa Fe and Cottonwood Creek Trails provide a good example of this mix.
What scenic views can I expect on these routes?
Many touring cycling routes in this region offer picturesque views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and the Air Force Academy grounds. You can also find viewpoints like the View of Pikes Peak from Austin Bluffs Open Space, providing stunning vistas of the iconic peak.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes?
Yes, several circular touring cycling routes are available. A popular option is the Falcon Trail Loop, which offers varied terrain within the Air Force Academy grounds. Another loop option is the Palmer Lake loop from Gleneagle.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see while cycling?
Along the touring cycling routes, you can encounter various points of interest. Highlights include natural features like Pulpit Rock and the Rampart Reservoir. You might also cross the Pedestrian Bridge Over Monument Creek on Pikes Peak Greenway.
Can I find places to eat or drink along the routes?
Yes, some routes pass near amenities. For example, the Criterium Bike Shop and Crit Cafe is a highlight that cyclists might find convenient for a break or refreshment.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling around Air Force Academy?
The region experiences four distinct seasons. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for touring cycling. Summer can be warm, while winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder conditions and potential snow.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in the Air Force Academy area?
The touring cycling routes around Air Force Academy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic views, and the network of trails that connect urban parks with natural corridors.
Is the Falcon Trail suitable for touring cyclists?
Yes, the Falcon Trail Loop is a popular moderate touring cycling route. It's a 12.8-mile (20.5 km) trail that takes approximately 2 hours 7 minutes to complete, offering varied terrain within the Air Force Academy grounds.
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