Forest Service Invites Public Feedback on Turkey Creek Reopening

The Red Rock Ranger District has reopened the public comment period for Phase 2 of the proposed Red Rock Trails Access Plan, targeting the Turkey Creek area west of the Village of Oak Creek. This phase plans to introduce 21.2 miles of new trails, recognize 10.21 miles of existing trails, reroute 1.72 miles, and eliminate 10.57 miles of trails.

A public meeting held on December 5 prompted considerable feedback, particularly regarding the plan’s initial proposal to eliminate equestrian access. Many residents voiced their concerns, particularly those linked to local educational institutions.

Administrators from Verde Valley School expressed their worries about hiker proximity to the campus. This concern led the Forest Service to remove the proposed equestrian closure areas from the plan and separate various projects into distinct phases. While the first phase was approved on August 2, the Turkey Creek proposals have been designated as Phase 2.

The upcoming trail programs near Bell and Cathedral Rocks will proceed without closures, with expected completion by year’s end. Construction on the Doe Mountain Trail, featuring a new loop and maintenance on the access trail, is set to commence in March. Meanwhile, work on the Scheurman Trail Connector is scheduled for spring, followed by the construction of the Oak Creek School bike trail in Cornville, anticipated for fall 2025.

The proposed equestrian closures would have severely restricted Verde Valley School’s equestrian program, which has been in operation since the school’s founding in 1948. Ben Lee, Head of School, expressed satisfaction with the resolution, noting the Forest Service’s engagement with the school community during their planning process.

District Recreation Officer Phillip Walrod highlighted the importance of accommodating the school’s access needs while managing public traffic effectively. “We worked with the school to ensure usable entrance and exit points for their students,” Walrod stated during a meeting with the Big Park Regional Coordinating Council.

No public meeting is currently planned, as District Ranger Alex Schlueter indicated that feedback is unlikely to differ from the initial round. Schlueter emphasized efficiency, given that the same concerns have been expressed previously.

Additionally, Forest Road 216B is slated for closure and restoration to a natural condition. This decision addresses ongoing traffic issues at the Turkey Creek East trailhead, which often sees overflow parking during peak times.

The proposed plan includes a new trailhead capable of accommodating 35 vehicles and a separate parking area for equestrians, designed for five horse trailers. This infrastructure aims to alleviate congestion while improving access for horse riders.

Walrod plans to implement a reservation system for equestrian users, requiring them to contact the Forest Service for access information. Efforts to eliminate unauthorized social trails are also a critical part of the proposal, as these trails often lack appropriate sustainability measures.

Archaeological considerations are also at play; many user-created trails encroach upon significant cultural resource sites. The public can review the plan online at tinyurl.com/RedRockAccessPhaseII. Comments will be accepted until November 14, with a decision memo expected this winter.

For those wishing to submit feedback via traditional mail, comments can be sent to the Red Rock Ranger District, Attention: Red Rock Trails Enhancement, 8375 SR 179, Sedona, AZ 86351.