Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Trail Access topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents, volunteers urge clearer rules and enforcement at Soldier Pass Trailhead
Summary
Three members of the public told council that inconsistent signage and enforcement at Soldier Pass Trailhead are causing confusion, parking tickets and safety concerns; a longtime volunteer who helps visitors said she has been ticketed despite trying to limit stops to drop-offs.
During the public forum, three Sedona residents described continuing confusion and enforcement problems at the Soldier Pass Trailhead and asked the city for clearer direction and assistance.
Deborah Wilkie, who identified herself as the operator of HikerHelp and said she has assisted visitors at Soldier Pass for about 4½ years, said she was ticketed while briefly stopping to help visitors and that the posted signs and enforcement appear inconsistent with city code. "We have a lot of frustrated and confused visitors here in Sedona... I got a parking ticket because there are signs there saying no standing, stopping, or parking," Wilkie said. She told the council she provides directions, shuttle information and guidance to visitors, and asked for city help so she can continue that voluntary service.
Resident Phil Kinchlow described the trail's history and supported Wilkie's role in helping visitors. He recommended clearer signage and targeted enforcement to allow drop-offs but prevent extended parking or trespass. He said the city code as posted should allow temporary loading and unloading and asked why state code was being used for ticketing at that location.
Speakers asked the city to consider on-site traffic control during peak periods, clearer posted rules that match city code, and enforcement that distinguishes brief passenger drop-offs from parking. Councilors acknowledged the concerns and suggested staff follow up; no formal action was taken at the meeting.
