Discussion of the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve dominated the first meeting of Oro Valley’s Trails Stakeholder Group. More than a dozen residents and trail users joined the virtual March 12 meeting to kick off the public input phase of the Town’s Trails Connect study.
Strong resident focus on that one trail area
Out of the 74 minutes of trail-related discussion, roughly two-thirds of the time (about 50 to 55 minutes) focused specifically on the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve. Residents praised the trail’s accessibility, safety, and value to nearby neighborhoods. At the same time, concerns were raised about access points, signage, and trail etiquette. One participant noted that informal entry routes pose safety risks and contribute to off-leash dog issues. Others brought up long-term needs such as trailhead parking, revegetation, and how future maintenance and improvements would be funded.
Participants also acknowledged other key trail areas in Oro Valley. These included the Loop, Honeybee Canyon, Big Wash, and Panorama Park. Attendees praised the Loop for its accessibility and connectivity, while Honeybee Canyon was recognized for its scenic desert trails that attract regional users. Big Wash was noted for the quality of its trailhead and paths, and Panorama Park was highlighted as a natural area with exceptional views.
Town planner Vella encourages a town-wide focus
Town Planning Manager Bayer Vella worked to ensure the discussion reflected the full scope of the Trails Connect study. He began the meeting by explaining that the plan includes both unpaved trails and paved multi-use paths throughout the town. He pointed to examples like the Loop, Big Wash, and future connections to regional areas such as Catalina State Park and Pinal County. When the discussion returned often to Vistoso, Vella acknowledged those concerns but reminded participants that the plan’s purpose is to develop a comprehensive trail network that benefits all users. “My hope is that everyone in this meeting can view this as all boats rise,” he said, “not a competition in terms of funding and who gets what.”
What’s next...You need to be involved
There is no doubt that Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve is a very important town recreational asset. There's no doubt that it needs to actually be created. Still. The next meeting ought to have a broader focus. That meeting is scheduled for April 23. At that time, the group will focus on reviewing initial findings from surveys and stakeholder input, and begin shaping draft goals for the Trails Master Plan. It would be good to get broader participation from residents who use trails across different parts of Oro Valley. Interested in joining or learning more? Visit www.OVTrailsConnect.com.
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Want to know more? Read our previous article on the study.
