Monument, CO - 10 Great Things to Do, Part 6
Part 6 of 10
One of the really nice features that local government has put in place is the Santa Fe Trail Walking and Biking Path. The path, named after the old commerce trail runs through Colorado along Interstate Highway 25. In most places, the path is west of the highway by about a 1/4 to 1/2 mile. But, can dip below the highway, as it crossed to the east side.
The original Santa Fe Trail ran from the ranches in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to the meat markets in Missouri. Over 1200 miles, crossing the Mississippi river, and traveling through the states of New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Kansas. It was an important trade route for the natives, military, traders, settlers, and ranchers driving their cattle to market. It was heavily used until the railroads came in around 1881.
The walking path through Colorado, named The Santa Fe Trail runs 17 miles through El Paso County, encompassing the cities of Colorado Springs, Monument, and Palmer Lake. There are parking lots all along the trail, making it easy to enter and exit. The trail is heavily used by walkers and bikers, too. It's mostly flat, very wide, and all gravel. It runs through the United State Air Force Academy, so while on that property, you'll need to carry identification.
The Santa Fe Trail Walking and Biking Path runs through a variety of scenic topography. In Monument, it's close to the downtown area, and many street intersect it. In Palmer Lake, the trail runs past the lake in Palmer Lake. (Yes, there really is a lake in Palmer Lake!) In Colorado Springs, the trail follows Monument Creek through the middle of the downtown area.
So, whether you're a walker or a biker, check out the Santa Fe Trail. And don't forget to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and your ID.
Comments (7)Subscribe to CommentsComment