Barefoot Trail Foundation

The Barefoot Trail Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 883143703, dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and outdoor education through grounding experiences. It operates America's first grounding park, located just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Mission and Objectives

The foundation's mission centers around reconnecting individuals with nature while fostering a healthier, happier community through outdoor recreation and environmental preservation. It emphasizes the importance of grounding, which involves walking barefoot to enhance physical and mental well-being by reducing stress, improving sleep, and alleviating chronic pain.

Activities and Programs

The Barefoot Trail offers a unique 1-mile path where visitors can walk barefoot across various natural surfaces, including dirt, mud, water, sand, stone, and rocks. The trail is complemented by adventure stations that challenge both mind and body while promoting grounding. The organization provides educational experiences, such as STEAM booklets that introduce grounding and reflexology concepts to visitors.

Community Engagement and Impact

The foundation's initiatives have been designed to combat the increasing rates of childhood obesity, anxiety, and depression by encouraging physical activity and mindfulness in connection with nature. The Barefoot Trail supports outdoor education for homeschoolers and students through eligibility for Arizona's Education Savings Account (ESA) funds. It also engages the community by offering flexible ticketing options, including individual and season passes, and promoting group activities.

Facilities and Operations

The trail is now open seven days a week from late spring to fall, offering an immersive experience that supports holistic well-being. The organization is committed to sustainable practices that preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

[1] https://fopmn.org/initiatives/petersons-path-to-nature-the-barefoot-trail-experience [2] https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/travel/americas-first-grounding-park-expands-offerings-and-welcomes-families-using-esa-funds-1009899 [3] https://thebarefoottrail.org [4] https://www.oraclegirl.org/article/the-barefoot-trail-foundation [5] https://greatnonprofits.org/org/barefoot-trail-foundation