For those with adaptive disabilities, America’s national parks are a refuge for the enjoyment and recreational use of all visitors. This primarily means trails, areas, and activities that are specifically wheelchair-accessible and/or ADA-compliant, but for those willing and able to go “off-trail” a bit, it can also pertain to a wider range of trails and recreation. Each journey starts at different levels, so follow our adaptive disability ambassador and let him be your guide through the parks.
I’ve heard some people in the outdoor community express frustrations. These folks are right about an influx of outdoor enthusiasts enjoying nature, but I love the diversity COVID has blessed us with. Change is a huge part of life—whether you like it or not, it’s happening.
The outdoors has been a huge source of healing for me, and it would be ignorant to think it isn’t for many others. Science shows us the many benefits of outdoor access, from physical to emotional health. Sadly, being on the trail, or even sitting around a campfire, hasn’t been the most welcoming place for a certain group of people—I’m talking about Black Americans.
I’m a wheelchair-user who likes to test my physical and mental abilities, and with the help of adaptive technology, recreational equipment, family, and friends, I’ve learned that nothing is impossible. Earth has way too many beautiful and interesting landscapes to not explore, and pushing my physical and mental limits has been a source of healing after sustaining a life-changing spinal cord injury over a decade ago.
