1,500-Mile Arizona Trail Project Announced

The statewide trail network aims to boost physical activity for all residents.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Hiking

Screen-print poster illustration of a winding dirt trail through a vast Arizona desert with saguaro cacti and mesas. — Northern Arizona University and the National Park Service have announced a collaborative 1,500-mile trail network project spanning across Arizona. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Northern Arizona University is working with the National Park Service and the Sun Corridor Trail Association to develop a 1,500-mile trail spanning Arizona. This project aims to expand outdoor access and improve community health for residents throughout the state.

Why it matters

Developing accessible, long-distance trail systems provides the infrastructure necessary to encourage consistent physical activity. By creating a continuous path, the initiative offers residents across the state new opportunities for cardiovascular health and outdoor recreation.

The project consists of a planned 1,500-mile trail network, supported by funding from a National Park Service grant. The exact route trajectory across state counties remains under development.

The players

Northern Arizona University

A public research university in Flagstaff that provides academic and research leadership for the trail development project.

National Park Service

A federal agency that provides grant funding and technical guidance through its Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance Program.

Sun Corridor Trail Association

An organization dedicated to the planning, advocacy, and implementation of the 1,500-mile trail network.

The details

Researchers from Northern Arizona University are collaborating with county officials and the Sun Corridor Trail Association to map the extensive path. The project utilizes support from the National Park Service Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance Program to organize and connect disparate local trail segments. By integrating land across various jurisdictions, the initiative seeks to create a cohesive corridor that supports sustained physical activity for hikers and the public.

October 23, 2026: The development of the Sun Corridor Trail was announced.

Health Landscape

This project marks a significant expansion of the National Park Service Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance Program's efforts to increase access to public outdoor recreation space. It follows a national trend of using large-scale trail infrastructure to promote active lifestyles.

Long-distance trails offer a low-impact way to improve cardiovascular endurance and mental wellbeing through consistent walking. As segments of the trail open, consider how such infrastructure can integrate into your regular exercise routine.

The takeaway

Large-scale trail projects provide a reliable, long-term resource for maintaining daily physical activity levels. Look for future updates regarding accessible trail segments in your local county to plan your next outdoor excursion.