As summer changes to autumn, the U.S. Gulf Coast anticipates the return of cool weather. Outdoor strolls are loaded with health benefits, even for those who can’t “walk” in the standard sense. Many wheelchair users enjoy regular outings, not just for strolling down the street, but also for hiking through the woods.
Of course, not every wheelchair can navigate every nature trail. (Neither can every “typical” pair of legs, for that matter.) If you’re new to hiking, the first step is to check what you’ll be getting into.
Is This Hike for Me?
The “Resources” section, below, lists some suggestions for finding wheelchair-friendly trails. If you’re going to a specific place, you can check the park’s/municipality’s/sponsoring organization’s website for additional recommendations.
But again, just because a trail is officially “accessible” doesn’t mean it’s right for you and your wheelchair. Find out all you can, in advance, about:
- Trail length and terrain
- Trail conditions at various times of year and in various weather situations (an unpaved path that’s easy to roll down in dry conditions may become a nightmare when muddy)
- Recommended experience levels for trail users
- Trail facilities (toilets, picnic areas, etc.) and their accessibility
- In large or remote areas, any limits on digital access (especially if you use app-based assistive technology)
Ideally, get firsthand information from someone who’s actually used a wheelchair on the trail.
If you want to try a trail, but doubt your wheelchair can manage it (or if you’d rather not risk an expensive chair finding out for sure), you may be able to rent or buy a chair designed for outdoor activities. The Abilities Expo Marketplace is one good source of assistive-technology recommendations.
Trail Tips
Additionally, wise hikers of any ability will:
- Bring plenty of drinking water, even on short trips. To be extra safe, drink a pint before starting down the trail.
- Bring healthy snacks, sunscreen, first-aid supplies, and insect repellent.
- Bring any medication you need to take—and protect it from overheating or other potentially harmful outdoor conditions.
- Dress for comfort (you may want extra cushioning on a bumpy trail), the weather, and the time of day. If you’ll be out long enough for temperatures (or sun intensity) to change, pack a couple of extra layers (jacket and/or sweater) and a hat.
- Tell someone where you’ll be and when you should be back, especially if going outside well-trafficked areas. Even with a smartphone, you can’t always count on reaching help quickly in an emergency.
Better Together
It’s usually safer and more fun to hike with a companion, or to join an organized group. There are even group hikes specifically for wheelchair users.
That said, shared and group outings do occasionally turn nasty. Besides choosing companions for reliability and compatible outdoor skills, make sure you aren’t the companion no one would want to hike with again. Never push anyone (including yourself) beyond their personal limits. Don’t be a complainer, even if you encounter one frustration after another. And be ready and willing to do your share of the work.
Hiking can be fun for anyone, regardless of personal ability or assistive technology. One last essential to bring is a positive attitude!
Resources
- AllTrails.com has an extensive database of outdoor trails worldwide. Options can be searched by state/geographic area and wheelchair-friendliness (look for the “Suitability” menu). The site does have a learning curve, and some features require a (free) account.
- Disabled Hikers Trail Guides is “written by disabled hikers for disabled hikers.” It focuses on West Coast and Pacific Northwest trails, but includes resources and stories useful to hikers anywhere.
- “Topographic maps and trail networks” feature in the Apple Maps app. Includes most U.S. National Parks hiking trails, and is searchable by route type, trail length, and elevation. Also includes a navigation system and the ability to save your favorite routes. (If you can’t find this feature in your Maps app, check that your device is updated to iOS 18, IpadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, or watchOS 11.)
- Wheelmap app for general wheelchair-accessibility ratings. Categories include parking lots and restaurants.