Special to Independent Newsmedia
The Barefoot Trail, the nation’s first grounding park, is reopening for its second season in Flagstaff.
Celebrated for its unique approach to holistic wellness and outdoor recreation, The Barefoot Trail invites individuals and families to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, all while experiencing the scientifically supported benefits of grounding.
“We are living in a world that’s overwhelmingly digital, and it’s taking a toll on our health,” Leah Williams, The Barefoot Trail founder, shared in a press release. “The Barefoot Trail is here to remind us that nature is powerful medicine. Simply spending time outside, unplugged and connected to the earth, can have profound effects on our well-being.”
With children now spending an average of 7.5 hours per day in front of screens, physical activity and outdoor engagement are at an all-time low, the press release reports, noting also that rates of childhood obesity, anxiety, and depression continue to climb.
New in 2025:
- ESA Fund Eligibility – Arizona’s Education Savings Account (ESA) funds can now be used for tickets and passes, making The Barefoot Trail an accessible outdoor education experience for homeschoolers and students.
- STEAM Booklets: These educational booklets introduce those attending to grounding and reflexology, featuring a reflection art page and a detailed foot reflexology map.
- Trail Refresh & Revamp – Enhanced surfaces and enhanced reflexology stations provide greater health benefits.
- Streamlined Online Booking – Adult tickets reserved online are now $14, children’s tickets $12, and children under 2 enter free. Same-day walk-up tickets are $15. Special $10 pricing is available for groups larger than 10.
- Now Open 7 Days A Week –The Barefoot Trail is now open every single day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 14 through Oct. 13.
Walking barefoot neutralizes the effects of positive ions absorbed from electronics, helping to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even alleviate chronic pain, the press release explains. Research has shown that grounding can help regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and enhance cardiovascular health.
Visit thebarefoottrail.org.
