ADK Land Trust reports on wildland trails' accessibility

KEENE | A new report from the Adirondack Land Trust, "Ground Truthing Accessible Wildland Trails Across the Adirondacks," fills gaps in knowledge about trails that allow people with mobility disabilities to experience wild nature. "Accessible trails are often overlooked in the broad landscape of traditional hiking trails across the Adirondack Park, and they are a component of what makes a place available to a wide variety of people. This report provides a much better picture of how many accessible wildland trails are out there, how wild they feel, how long they are, and what the trailheads are like," said Adirondack Land Trust Stewardship Manager Derek Rogers. The report is authored by Sophie Williams, the land trust's 2025 Intern for the Future of the Adirondacks. The overarching focus of the project was on access to wild places, and how factors like distance from road noise and development contribute to a trail's wild character. Williams visited and surveyed 36 trails that were reported to be accessible. She collected data on accessibility trail features such as firm and stable surface, minimum width of three feet, slope of less than 12 percent, current conditions, and rest stops. And, she also documented the presence of accessible toilets and accessible parking at trailheads, scenic vistas, and user fees. REPORT DETAILS Williams compiled the information she collected into a field survey report, supplemental field notes and images, and an interactive online story map. All materials are available at adirondacklandtrust.org/accessible-wildland-trails. KEY FINDINGS 21 trails across the Adirondack Park's six million acres were found to be accessible for people with mobility disabilities.Of those 21 accessible trails, 12 are less than 0.5 miles in length, and nine rank medium-to-high for wildland feel. BROADER APPLICATIONS In addition to filling a knowledge gap, the survey report provides geographic information system data layers and information that may be useful in: Helping people know what to expect when planning a visit to any of these sites. Providing details that can help tourism officials, communities, and land managers update promotional materials, if needed, and serve as an aid in trail planning. Bringing attention to barriers that may limit access for people with mobility disabilities that could potentially be addressed by land managers. "Accessibility benefits more than just wheelchair users. People with young children and strollers, people who have balance issues, people with vision impairments or who struggle with depth perception—all benefit," said Jason Thurston, chair, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Accessibility Advisory Committee. "As we all age our bodies break down and we will still want access to the wilderness we all love." Contact the Adirondack Land Trust at info@adirondacklandtrust.org with questions or comments.

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ADK Land Trust reports on wildland trails' accessibility

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