Nestled deep within Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs, NORAD short for North American Aerospace Defense Command is one of the most iconic and mysterious military facilities in the world. With its fortified tunnels, massive blast doors, and advanced radar systems, it has long captured the imagination of the public. People often wonder if it’s possible to take a tour of NORAD and what exactly lies inside this legendary command center. The answer is a bit more complex than a simple yes or no, and depends heavily on the area of NORAD in question and your status as a civilian or military personnel.
What is NORAD?
A Brief Overview
NORAD is a bi-national organization between the United States and Canada, responsible for aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America. Originally built during the Cold War, the facility was designed to withstand nuclear attacks and maintain critical defense operations even in the worst-case scenario. The most well-known part of NORAD is the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, which was the primary operations center for decades.
Strategic Importance
Today, NORAD plays a vital role in national security. It monitors and tracks aircraft, satellites, missiles, and other objects that enter North American airspace. Its role is both defensive and responsive, prepared to react to any aerial threat at a moment’s notice. While some of its operations have shifted to Peterson Space Force Base, Cheyenne Mountain remains a powerful symbol of strategic readiness.
Can Civilians Tour NORAD?
The Short Answer
Currently, civilians cannot take a public tour of the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, where NORAD is based. Due to its highly sensitive nature and ongoing military operations, the facility is not open for casual visits or tourism. This policy ensures the security of the base and the protection of national defense infrastructure.
Past Tours and Changes Over Time
In the past, limited tours were occasionally granted to civilians, primarily school groups, veterans, or government visitors. However, after the events of September 11, 2001, and the rise in global security threats, public access was severely restricted. The heightened security environment meant that NORAD had to close its doors to visitors entirely for safety and operational reasons.
Are There Alternatives to Touring NORAD?
Peterson Space Force Base Visitor Center
While Cheyenne Mountain itself is closed to the public, Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs where much of NORAD’s operations have moved is home to the Peterson Air and Space Museum. This museum is open to civilians and offers exhibits related to aerospace defense, NORAD’s history, and space exploration.
North American Aerospace Defense Command Displays
Throughout Colorado Springs, including at the Air Force Academy and public museums, you can find exhibits, educational materials, and interactive displays related to NORAD. These provide insights into how the organization functions, the technology it uses, and its historical significance.
Understanding the Cheyenne Mountain Complex
Structure and Security
The Cheyenne Mountain Complex is built 2,000 feet below the summit of Cheyenne Mountain. It consists of a series of tunnels, chambers, and buildings suspended on giant springs designed to absorb shock. This allows the complex to function even during seismic events or nuclear blasts.
Facilities Inside
Inside the mountain, the complex includes its own power plant, water reservoir, medical facilities, and even a dining area. It is capable of operating independently for extended periods, making it one of the most self-sufficient military installations in the world.
How NORAD Impacts the Public
Santa Tracker Program
One of the most beloved public-facing programs of NORAD is the annual NORAD Tracks Santa initiative. Every Christmas Eve, NORAD shares real-time updates on Santa’s journey around the globe. This family-friendly program is a major hit with children and families, and it offers a glimpse into the lighter side of the organization’s operations.
Emergency Response Capabilities
Though not visible to most people, NORAD plays a vital role in national emergency response. From monitoring incoming threats to assisting in search-and-rescue missions, its scope of responsibility is vast and critical to North American safety.
Why People Want to Tour NORAD
Pop Culture and Media Influence
Movies like WarGames, documentaries, and various conspiracy theories have contributed to the mystique of NORAD. The idea of a secret bunker hidden inside a mountain, full of supercomputers and military staff monitoring global activity, fascinates many. This allure naturally leads people to want to see it in person.
Historical Significance
NORAD’s origins during the Cold War make it a site of immense historical interest. It represents the tension, preparedness, and innovation of that era. Military history enthusiasts and researchers often wish to study the facility more closely, if only they could gain access.
Special Access Cases
Military Personnel and Contractors
Individuals with the proper clearance, such as active-duty military, defense contractors, or government officials, may be granted access to NORAD facilities depending on their role. These tours are not recreational and are typically part of specific duties or official visits.
Media Visits and Documentaries
On rare occasions, media outlets and documentary filmmakers have been granted limited access to specific areas within NORAD. These visits are heavily supervised and require long-term planning, background checks, and official approval from multiple agencies.
What You Can Do Instead
- Visit the Peterson Air and Space Museum: Get close to NORAD-related exhibits and learn about its aerospace defense missions.
- Take a Scenic Drive: Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers great views of the surrounding area and lets you imagine the fortress hidden inside the mountain.
- Participate in Educational Programs: Schools and universities sometimes host talks or lectures by retired NORAD staff or military historians.
While touring the NORAD facility inside Cheyenne Mountain may not be possible for the average civilian, there are still ways to explore its fascinating legacy and role in aerospace defense. Museums, educational exhibits, and special events like the Santa Tracker offer a small window into the operations of one of the world’s most secure and iconic defense institutions. The mystery and strategic importance of NORAD continue to capture public curiosity, making it a cornerstone of both military defense and American imagination.