The best cycling routes around Air Force Academy
4.9
(27)
902
riders
52
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…
Last updated: August 31, 2026
65
riders
20.5km
02:07
390m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
35
riders
48.4km
04:08
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
38
riders
31.5km
02:00
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
riders
30.4km
02:10
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Go early to get a parking spot around Palmer Lake.
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Anyone know when AF will open up the portion of Santa Fe Trail?
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Palmer Lake Recreation Area is a 36-acre recreation site at the foot of Ben Lomond Mountain and is a popular spot to enjoy fishing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
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This park features a serene pond with a soothing waterfall, where you're likely to spot ducks and geese. It also offers amenities such as a basketball court, tennis court, and open green space.
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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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This 6 mile long trail of paved concert runs along Cottonwood Creek and passing by Cottonwood Creek Park. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Front Range.
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This park offers a variety of sports activities, including soccer, baseball, and football. The highlight is the Frisbee golf course that runs through the area. The park features diverse terrain, ranging from paved pathways to rugged gravel and dirt trails that run alongside Cottonwood Creek.
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This trail stretches for 14 miles from Woodmen to Monument. The section between Lee Lake and the South Gate entrance of the Air Force area offers a well-maintained gravel trail with some pleasant hills and follows alongside Monument Creek.
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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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