HIT THE TRAILS FOR FITNESS AND FUN
Hiking is for all abilities L
Article from Disabled Sports USA
ooking for a way to get out and enjoy nature? Get a friend and take a hike!
No matter whether you live in a city or the mountains, if you’re new to physical activity or a seasoned athlete, if it’s sunny or raining, you can get out- side and take a hike with friends and family. Hiking allows you to explore the world around you and keep in shape without having to learn a whole new set of skills.
“The beauty of hiking is that it is for all abilities. There isn’t a person with a disability that we couldn’t take out on a hike,” said Lauren Kyllo, CTRS and program manager at Common Ground Outdoor Adventures, a chapter of Disabled Sports USA. “You’re simply going for a walk or roll whether it’s a gravel trail by a river
or a backcountry excursion. Anyone who has an interest can get out.” Hiking’s other advantage is being able to enjoy the activity with family and friends. “Socially, you’re able to talk while hiking, so you’re able to improve friendships and strengthen social skills as well as just being chal- lenged physically,” Kyllo said.
Finding the right trailhead
If you are new to hiking, the first question you might have is where is the nearest trail? The answer will depend on the hike you’re looking for. Inexperienced hikers, those looking for something a bit less challenging, or those lucky enough to live in a place that invests in trail infrastructure could find their nearest trail around the cor- ner at the local park.
Those looking for a longer hike to challenge their endurance levels might
look to a nearby state or national park. A quick Google search will usually bring up a number of hiking trails in your area.
For those who use a wheelchair or other mobility assistance device, most of the websites that provide trail data and trail guides also provide informa- tion on accessibility.
Newer hikers or those with limited stamina should consider a shorter hike that is an easier walk or roll and work up towards longer, more difficult treks.
Wheelchair users can find paved or
hard-packed dirt trails and utilize their everyday chair. Another option is an off-roading chair, which has bigger tires with more traction that will help a wheelchair user get across bumpier trails more independently.
For athletes who may be unable to walk or push themselves in a chair along the trail, another option might be
Joseph Reddy, a manual wheelchair user, enjoys the South Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon. His parents, Rev. Wade and Liz Reddy write: “We want to thank the National Park Service for making this stunning view available to our family, and also for the lifetime pass our son can use at all National Parks.“
24 SPRING 2018
AmericanTrails.org
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