Today I’m sharing about Flagstaff’s Barefoot Trail, a kid-centric mile trail that engages kids to explore the forest in a new way.
This adventure park is incredible for kids from tots to teens, and we’re sharing everything to know before experiencing it yourself (spoiler alert: we’re obsessed with this and can’t wait to go back).
The Barefoot Trail is just what it sounds like: a one mile loop trail in Flagstaff pines that guides participants to experience barefoot walking through the forest over dirt, mud, water, sand, stone and rocks.
Barefoot walking may sound a bit strange, but this adventure trail for kids has been designed specifically for barefoot walking (shown to reduce anxiety, depression, chronic pain, fatigue and help improve cardiovascular health); We walked the trail with four and 12-year old kids and both, although unsure at first, they both ended the trail proud that they had done it.
Keep reading for more about this incredible outdoor adventure park near Flagstaff.
XO,
Amy
Is the Barefoot Trail good for kids?
Yes, yes, yes! The trail is designed with young kids in mind–my four year old completed the full adventure course and had so many fun experiences along the trail. And our 12-year-old buddy with us equally enjoyed the trail–it truly meets kids ability levels and challenges them each at developmentally appropriate levels.
Sprinkled throughout the mile trail are more than 15 activity stations to keep kids engaged, from a kids zip line between trees (there’s even a baby zip line!), to a tire mountain and ninja challenges. 
How much is the Barefoot Trail?
Currently tickets are $10/person for everyone over two years old.
The adventure park opened in July 2024 and is a nonprofit organization; Their hope is that in the future, through generous donations and support, they’ll be able to lower the ticket price and add more challenges to the course.
Already planned as an addition for next year are STEM stations for kids (in collaboration with NAU) along the trail.
Is Barefoot Trail stroller friendly?
Although kids two and under are free, the trail doesn’t allow strollers or wagons. Additionally, pets are not allowed.
However, I’d say confident walking littles have fun on the trail, even as little as 18 months I’d say would love it.
When is Barefoot Trail open?
It’s a seasonal operation, so it will close in September 2024 and open again in May 2025. Memberships will be available starting for the 2025 season as well.
The trail is currently open Wednesday – Sunday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
