The Sedona Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) meeting on August 6, 2025, spotlighted an exciting partnership between AllTrails and the U.S. Forest Service aimed at enhancing the management of local trails. This collaboration emerged from discussions initiated last fall between TAB members and the Red Rock Ranger District team, focusing on how to better support federal land management efforts.
A key takeaway from these discussions was the need to differentiate between official U.S. Forest Service trails and social trails on digital mapping platforms. The meeting revealed that a recent conference led to an agreement on modifying the visual representation of social trails on apps like AllTrails. This change will ensure that social trails are depicted with less prominence compared to designated trails, helping users navigate the area more effectively and responsibly.
This initiative not only aims to improve trail management but also enhances visitor safety and experience in Sedona's stunning natural landscapes. The TAB emphasized the importance of working closely with federal partners to maintain the integrity of public lands while promoting tourism. As this partnership develops, it is expected to lead to better-informed visitors and a more sustainable approach to trail usage in the region.