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Top 5 things to do now that the Cadet Chapel is closed

(U.S. Air Force photo)

By Ray Bowden, Sept 30, 2019

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — The Cadet Chapel might be closed for renovations, but there’s still a lot for visitors to do and see on the Air Force’s only academy.

(U.S. Air Force photo)

Falcon Football

Football season is in full swing, with four more home games to host during in the regular season. The Falcons take on Fresno State, Oct. 12; Utah State, Oct. 26; Army, Nov. 2; and Wyoming, Nov. 30.  Visit aftickets.com/Online/default.asp for more information.

Eagles Peak

The Academy was built on some prime real estate, and that includes Eagles Peak, which takes hikers 9,368 feet above sea level if they make it to the top. To get to this popular trail, enter the base through the North Gate and head West on North Gate Boulevard. Follow North Gate Boulevard as it curves south and becomes Academy Drive. Look for the dirt road directly across from the Visitors Center and park in the Visitors Center lower lot. Head up that dirt road and follow the signs for Trail 713.

(U.S. Air Force photo/Trevor Cokley)

The Planetarium

The Academy’s planetarium was renovated top to bottom and features state-of-the-art technology, including advanced projection and immersive surround sound. Stop by and see our free films highlighting space flight, the Solar System, the environment and many other subjects, Monday through Friday.

Visit www.usafa.edu/academics/facilities/planetarium for more information.

Sky-high activities

Nothing’s guaranteed, but if you drive 1.5 miles into the base on South Gate Boulevard and park at the overlook just east of the road, you might get a great look at some high-altitude activities. Barring poor weather, you’ve got a solid chance of seeing our cadets fly powered aircraft and gliders, not to mention our parachute team jumping into the nearby drop zone.

Visitor Center

Ever wondered what cadet life is like at the Academy? Visitors can view a 20-minute film showcasing the cadet experience. The viewings are free and visitors can purchase the longer version of the film. Several other displays at the center focus on cadet life through the years.

Along with all this, several artifacts highlighting our religious diversity are scheduled to be moved from the Cadet Chapel and placed on display at the Visitors Center while the renovations at the chapel take place.