Tips for Finding Wheelchair Hiking Spots

Just because you are in a wheelchair does not mean an active lifestyle has to cease. On the contrary! With the right wheelchair and the proper mindset, you can tackle anything, and that includes wheelchair hiking.

Finding a wheelchair accessible trail at a state park is usually an easy task. But what if you want to go off the beaten path? That’s when the trail – and simply finding the trail – can get a little tricky. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• If there is a particular place you want to explore for wheelchair hiking, check with the park ranger or information desk to make certain the area is wheelchair friendly. There are usually some hiking trails meant specifically for wheelchairs and then some that are “at your own risk.”
• Most state and local parks will have wheelchair friendly areas to explore. Civil war battlefields and historic attractions often have excellent trails that are great for wheelchair use. To be sure, ask for a map of wheelchair hiking trails before you start on your trek.
• Check on the trail status. Even if it says “accessible” on the map doesn’t mean it really is. Many trails are in the wilderness, where spring runoff or a hard winter can make a formerly accessible area completely impassable. Park rangers will be able to tell you which trails are truly open for business and which ones to avoid.
• Talk to employees in a store that sells hiking gear. The most knowledgeable employees are probably hikers themselves, and can give you leads on hiking trails that nobody else knows about. Remember, it doesn’t actually have to be marked “accessible” to be accessible.
• If you will be hiking in a cavern, ask about space. Some areas might say they are accessible – and they are, but only to small, compact wheelchairs. If you have a larger wheelchair, you might not be able to get through the entire trail. If you think you might go through an area that is a bit tight, ask the park ranger or information desk about the dimensions of the smallest sections of the cavern.
• Check out websites and reviews from those who have already ventured out into the wild for wheelchair hiking. You can get some great information from blogs and reviews on travel sites. Simply type your destination and “wheelchair accessible trails” into a search engine and begin exploring.
• What about the grade? Some wheelchair accessible areas might have a great paved pathway and plenty of switchbacks if necessary, but the grade can be very steep. If you don’t have excellent upper body strength to power a manual wheelchair up the grade, or if you are concerned that your power wheelchair won’t make the climb, avoid the area.
• Look for accessible bathrooms. If you aren’t a hardcore hiker, you probably want a few of the modern conveniences available to you, such as bathrooms. Unfortunately, an accessible trail might not have an accessible bathroom, even at the rest station. If this will be an issue, check it out before you hike.
• Consider what your wheelchair can handle. Do you need a paved trail? What if it is simply compacted and smooth, but not paved? Can you handle a bumpy trail of dirt or gravel? Know what your wheelchair can handle and plan accordingly.
• Keep the weather in mind as well. Some trails might be perfect for the summer months, but could become impassable with leaves or snow during the later part of the year. Mother Nature usually does the snow clearing, so if you still have snow in your front yard, it’s a safe bet that the trail has snow, too. Again, know what your wheelchair can handle and plan accordingly.

Always remember that your safety comes first. When you go wheelchair hiking, always take someone with you if at all possible. If you prefer to hike alone, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will be back. Don’t rely on cell phones! Some hikes will take you out into the middle of nowhere, far away from towers, and your phone might not get a good signal.

If you think your wheelchair can’t make the hike, don’t attempt it. It is always better safe than sorry. Be prepared and stay realistic. Even hikes that are rated as “easy” can be difficult, depending upon your fitness level. Don’t forge ahead with a hike that seems to be too tough to handle.

Finally, have fun! Wheelchair hiking is a chance to experience the natural world on your own. The fresh air and good exercise will be beneficial, but the enjoyment you get from the hike could be the best medicine of all.