Nation's first barefoot park opens in Flagstaff

The Barefoot Trail, the nation’s first grounding park, is now open in Flagstaff.

This 1-mile innovative park is designed to promote holistic health and well-being through grounding, also known as earthing, a press release explains. By walking barefoot on natural surfaces, individuals can reconnect with the earth's natural energy, which has been shown to reduce stress, inflammation, and improve sleep.

"Grounding has been a transformative practice for me, and I am excited to bring this experience to the United States," Leah Williams, The Barefoot Trail founder, stated. "Our park offers the unique opportunity for people to reconnect with nature, improve their health, and enjoy the beauty of Flagstaff."

Williams has traveled in Europe and lived in several countries where grounding and outdoor activities are integral to daily life. The Barefoot Trail has core values as a destination for visitors of all ages, including exercise through outdoor recreation, environmental education, outdoor youth development, therapeutic programs, and land conservation.

The trail is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Tickets are $10 for children and adults. Kids 2 and younger are free. Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

The seasonal park is open through September and is closed during colder months.

Visit thebarefoottrail.org/ or email barefoottrailaz@gmail.com .