New Route Alternate: Navigating Around Air Force Academy Closures

The American Discovery Trail's route through Colorado Springs includes a beautiful section along the New Santa Fe Trail that passes directly through Air Force Academy property.

When it's open, it's a highlight of the Colorado ADT experience.

The problem? It's not always open! 😠

When the Trail Closes, You Need Options

Trail closures are one of those realities of long-distance hiking that you can't always plan around. Weather, wildfires, road construction, and in this case, security protocols - they all create situations where your carefully planned route suddenly doesn't work.

That's exactly what Steve Gefell faced when he reached the Air Force Academy section this past summer.

The Santa Fe Trail section of the ADT through the Academy gets shut down periodically due to heightened security measures at the base. These closures can happen with little warning and no clear timeline for reopening, leaving hikers scrambling to figure out how to get around the secured military installation in the middle of their thru-hike.

With Steve's help, we mapped and verified a complete alternative route around the Academy property, and Steve became the first hiker to put it to the test.

Field-Tested and Hiker-Approved

The alternate does more than just solve a navigation problem - it actually offers some advantages even when the primary ADT route is open. The route passes through Colorado Springs neighborhoods with access to multiple Amazon Locker and Counter locations, restaurants, and lodging options.

Even an R.E.I location!

If you're hitting Colorado Springs at a point where you need resupply, a meal, or a rest day, this alternate turns a potential obstacle into an opportunity.

The Air Force Academy isn't going to change its security protocols based on hiking trail access - nor should they. Their mission takes priority, and closures will continue to happen as security needs dictate.

Integrated Into Your Navigation

The primary route through the Academy remains the default when it's accessible - it's a beautiful trail section worth experiencing if you can. But now you've got a proven alternate that works when that option isn't available.

We've now integrated this alternate into our GPS data and turn-by-turn guides, clearly marked for use during Academy closures. The waypoints include all the critical decision points, and notes indicate where you'll find services along the alternate route.

Planning Ahead

Ready to tackle Colorado with confidence? Our GPS data and turn-by-turn guides include both the primary Air Force Academy route and the verified alternate, so you're prepared regardless of which option you need. 🥾

Hike Your Hike - John.

News and Notes along the ADT

Maryland

Fun Fact: This Maryland County Has The Only Coast-to-Coast Trail Running Through It

The American Discovery Trail (ADT) is the nation’s only coast-to-coast, non-motorized trail. The trail passes directly through Caroline County, connecting

Conduit StreetAmanda Grosskrueger

Ohio

‘Banded’ showcases Avian Research Education Institute bird banding station

Andy Rice partnered with David Russell to create the documentary

Miami UniversityLauren Keller, Student News Bureau

Iowa

New historical sign on Great River Trail honors pre-Moline visionary David Sears