Tusayan is looking to strengthen its identity as a gateway for outdoor recreation for both its residents and visitors. In his report to the Town Council, Town Manager Greg Cliftyon said public feedback on the General Plan called for better trail connections to the Arizona Trail and nearby gravel cycling routes.

ADOT is reviewing the Phase 2 trail project, with funding decisions expected by mid-September. If the project is approved and weather cooperates, construction could begin this season.

The work would include two new trailheads, clearing the 0.8-mile Grand Canyon History Trail loop, and improving existing community trail connections. 

Tusayan’s tourism rebranding effort is also taking shape. The town’s IT and web teams are building out a new digital presence under the Experience Grand Canyon name. New seasonal banners have already gone up along the main highway corridors. 

The rebranding work lines up with planned improvements at the Moqui Cookout Site. The town bought the two-acre venue’s facilities from a stable operator in 2024 and has been working to move an expired U.S. Forest Service permit into a longer-term, eight-year agreement. Planned upgrades include reinforcing steps and surfaces around the main stage, rebuilding the cooking grill, and adding permanent vault restrooms to replace older facilities.