Sedona Introduces Exciting New Annual Pass for Recreation Sites

The Coconino National Forest has announced a significant change to its pass system. Effective January 2024, the $45 Grand Annual Pass will be discontinued in favor of a new Sedona Pass. This decision, made in conjunction with concessionaire ExplorUS, aims to simplify access to the Red Rock Ranger District’s popular locations including Call of the Canyon, West Fork, Crescent Moon Ranch, and Grasshopper Point.

According to a press release from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Grand Annual Pass will no longer be sold after December 31. However, pass holders can continue to use their existing Grand Annual Passes at all fee sites through 2025, even if purchased before the end of 2024.

Red Rock District Recreation Officer Phillip Walrod explained that the original purpose of the Grand Annual Pass was to grant access solely to concession-run sites. Over time, however, it was inadvertently accepted at other U.S. Forest Service locations. This led to a review and a subsequent decision to create a new, more localized pass.

The upcoming Sedona Pass will be priced at $50 and allows entry for one vehicle and up to five passengers. It encompasses all sites under the Grand Annual Pass, in addition to the Beaver Creek and Lower Lake Mary day-use areas. ExplorUS district manager Chris Lusby noted that the name may change again in the future to better represent its offerings, which could potentially include Lockett Meadow north of Flagstaff, pending operational decisions.

The existing $20 Big Three pass, granting access to Grasshopper Point, West Fork, and Crescent Moon Ranch, remains unaffected, although ExplorUS may review it later.

Lusby emphasized that a portion—about 20%—of each pass sold is reinvested back into park improvements. This revenue will facilitate ongoing projects, including restroom renovations at Crescent Moon and Grasshopper Point, which are expected to cost approximately $250,000. Lusby acknowledged that current restroom facilities are struggling to meet visitor demand.

Additionally, discussions regarding increasing parking spaces at Crescent Moon and Grasshopper Point have not taken place. In January, the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors implemented expanded no-parking zones to address ongoing congestion issues.

Visitor capacity has become an ongoing challenge for the area. According to Lusby, increased foot traffic often exceeds the designed limits of Crescent Moon sites. They are making efforts to manage this by optimizing staff resources and ensuring efficient parking operations, though external factors remain a hurdle.

The new pass will feature a compact design, similar to a credit card, rather than the hangtag format of its predecessor. Each pass will come with a unique QR code linked to its purchaser, simplifying the purchasing process at participating sites.