About the Arizona Trail

The Arizona Trail, the dream of Flagstaff teacher and hiking enthusiast Dale Shewalter, is a nearly 800 mile non-motorized trail that traverses the State from Mexico to Utah (see trail description) The Arizona Trail is intended to be a primitive, long distance trail that highlights the state's topographic, biologic, historic and cultural diversity. Jody Sixkiller captured the Trail's beauty and wonder in her song The Arizona Trail.

The trail's primary users are hikers, equestrians and mountain bicyclists (outside of wilderness or other specially managed areas). Opportunities will also exist for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, joggers and pack stock users. Government agencies, businesses and volunteers are working together to make the Arizona Trail a reality.

As of late 2007 more than 750 miles has been signed and is open to the public. More than 700 miles of the Arizona Trail have been "officially" designated and signed (trail route map). The trail is made up of 43 passages ranging from 11 to 35 miles in length. In most cases, the Arizona Trail utilizes existing trails that are also known by their original name and number. In a few areas primitive roads are temporarily being used in areas where linkages are needed. However, new trail construction will eventually be done in these areas, especially to maintain the vision of a non-motorized trail. When completed, the Arizona Trail will become one of the premier long-distance trails in the country.

In late 1993, an Intergovernmental Agreement was established between Arizona State Parks, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management (known as the Arizona Trail Partners) that allows these agencies to cooperatively plan for the development and completion of the Arizona Trail. In 1995, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was developed for the Arizona Trail. Pima County, Walnut Canyon National Monument and the Arizona Trail Association became part of the "Arizona Trail Partners." Since then, numerous other cities, counties, businesses and non-profit agencies have become official and unofficial partners of the Arizona Trail Association.

In 1994 the Arizona Trail Association (ATA) was founded to promote the Arizona Trail as a unique and outstanding recreational and educational resource, and provide opportunities for citizens to become involved in the development, maintenance, use and enjoyment of the Arizona Trail. The ATA is primarily a volunteer group that helps guide the construction and maintenance of the trail. Volunteer labor, membership and donations help us build, maintain and promote the Arizona Trail.

There is still a lot of work to do to finish the trail. And, there are many ways YOU can help. Check out our work projects and events calendar to see if there is upcoming activity that interests you. Contact one of our trail stewards to learn about a specific trail segment and what needs to be done.

If you are interested in learning more about the Arizona Trail or would like to join the Arizona Trail Association please contact:

Arizona Trail Association
PO Box 36736
Phoenix, AZ   85067-6736
Phone (602) 252-4794
E-mail: