Greater Observatory Mesa Area Trail Plan
 

Background
The Observatory Mesa Natural Area is a vital ecological and recreational asset for the City of Flagstaff. The land was acquired in 2016 using voter-approved bond funds from 2004, matched with an Arizona State Parks Growing Smarter grant. A conservation easement held by Arizona State Parks mandates that the property remains preserved while allowing certain recreational and educational activities. The area is adjacent to the Lowell Observatory and Coconino National Forest, making it an essential part of Flagstaff's Open Space System.
 
Plan Development
The Greater Observatory Mesa Area (GOMA) Trail Plan was developed through a collaborative effort between the City of Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory, and Coconino National Forest. The planning process included:

• Reviewing guiding documents such as conservation easements and management policies.
• Assessing current conditions, including user-created trails and environmental impacts.
• Identifying key issues such as archaeological sites, wildlife corridors, and fire management concerns.
• Incorporating public input through multiple phases of outreach and stakeholder meetings.

Plan’s Purpose
The primary objective of the GOMA Trail Plan is to establish a formal, managed trail system that provides sustainable recreational opportunities while protecting natural and cultural resources. The plan addresses:

• Habitat and watershed conservation.
• Unauthorized trail use and environmental degradation.
• Community demand for improved recreational access.

Public Process
The plan development involved extensive public outreach, including:

• Public engagement through social media campaigns, press releases, flyers, community calendars, property postings, physical mailer, and mass email notifications.
• Three public surveys conducted in 2022, 2023, 2024.
• Three public meetings at various locations in Flagstaff.
• Direct engagement with stakeholders, including land managers, local neighborhoods, advocacy groups, tribal consultation, commissions, and environmental organizations.

Trail Plan Elements
The GOMA Trail Plan outlines a phased approach to trail implementation and management. Key elements include:

• Designation of approximately 20 miles of sustainable single-track trails.
• Approximately 8 miles of trail for adaptive uses.
• Addition of two formal access points, bringing the total to eight.
• Restoration of 4.1 miles of unauthorized trails and 10.5 miles of abandoned roads.
• Development of two educational zones for interpretive signage and experiential learning.
• Expansion of parking facilities and wayfinding signage.

Next Steps

• Opportunity for Council input and direction
• Review for potential plan adoption via resolution June 3, 2025
• Arizona State Parks and Trails plan review
• Develop interagency agreements with partners
• Design and mark trail alignments
• Cultural resource review and clearance with partners
• State Historic Preservation Office review
• Grant applications to support implementation
• Begin phased implementation of the trail plan in FY 2028-2029 (FY 28-35)

Online Material: Observatory Mesa Natural Area Guiding Documents

• https://flagstaff.az.gov/4870/Greater-Observatory-Mesa-Trail-Plan

Plan Adoption Process
After the Council reviews and potentially provides feedback, the plan will be formally presented for adoption via resolution tentatively on June 3, 2025. If approved, implementation will proceed in collaboration with relevant land management agencies and partners. This comprehensive plan balances recreation with conservation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Observatory Mesa Natural Area.