{"id":31208,"date":"2024-07-10T08:00:37","date_gmt":"2024-07-10T13:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/?p=31208"},"modified":"2025-08-05T13:15:48","modified_gmt":"2025-08-05T18:15:48","slug":"accessible-outdoor-recreation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/accessible-outdoor-recreation\/","title":{"rendered":"Accessible Outdoor Recreation in Wisconsin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|||||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||24px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Happy Disability Pride Month! From accessible trails and cabins to universal beach access and adaptive kayaks, join us as we highlight some of the adaptive equipment options across the state with Nick Zouski, Accessibility Coordinator with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. NRF, the DNR, and our other conservation partners are on a journey to make the outdoors a welcoming place for all. <\/em>\r\n\r\nWe hope you’ll get outdoors this summer and start (or continue) adventuring in our beautiful state.<\/em>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-Bong-SRA-beach-mat-wdnr.jpg” alt=”Beach mat stretching across beach to water’s edge at Bong State Recreation Area” title_text=”Blog Post Bong SRA Beach Mat Wdnr” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

A beach mat stretching across the sand provides access to the water’s edge at Bong State Recreation Area. Photo courtesy of WIDNR<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Accessibility, all year round<\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

July is Disability Pride Month, but throughout the whole year we at NRF look for ways to help a wider variety of people enjoy our state’s natural wonders. Often, we do this by funding accessibility improvements whenever possible through our grant programs<\/a>.<\/p>\n

This month, we’re highlighting some adaptive equipment options you might not be aware of at Wisconsin’s state park properties. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources<\/a> or individual state parks’ “friends groups” manage most of these equipment rental opportunities.<\/p>\n

Are you, a friend, or a family member interested in trying one of them? To learn more about these resources, we spoke to Nick Zouski, the DNR’s Accessibility Coordinator. Read on to learn more about all the options available.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-2023-NRF-grant-funded-action-track-chair-for-Point-Beach-State-Forest-Courtesy-of-John-Wyrostek.jpg” alt=”Person using an all terrain outdoor wheelchair with tank-like tracks on the beach” title_text=”Blog Post 2023 NRF Grant Funded Action Track Chair For Point Beach State Forest Courtesy Of John Wyrostek” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The new action track chair at Point Beach State Forest, purchased in part by grant funds from NRF. Photo courtesy of John Wyrostek<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Outdoor Wheelchairs<\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

You may have noticed that standard wheelchairs will work on trails at many state parks, forests, and recreation areas. But, what about more rugged trails? Enter: the all-terrain wheelchair!<\/p>\n

One of the DNR’s newer accessibility options<\/a>, these wheelchairs can go places where standard ones can’t. Their tank-like tracks make them perfect for “off-roading.”<\/p>\n

Peninsula State Park in Door County was the first to host an all-terrain wheelchair, followed by Point Beach State Park and Buckhorn State Park. Another chair at Newport Beach State Park is coming soon.<\/p>\n

Interested in exploring a different site? Access Ability Wisconsin<\/a> also provides outdoor wheelchairs and trailers to help individuals explore nature and create their own outdoor adventures.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Nick Zouski” job_title=”Accessibility Coordinator, Wisconsn DNR” portrait_url=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iNTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjUwMCIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDUwMCA1MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+CiAgICA8ZyBmaWxsPSJub25lIiBmaWxsLXJ1bGU9ImV2ZW5vZGQiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGZpbGw9IiNFQkVCRUIiIGQ9Ik0wIDBoNTAwdjUwMEgweiIvPgogICAgICAgIDxyZWN0IGZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eT0iLjEiIGZpbGw9IiMwMDAiIHg9IjY4IiB5PSIzMDUiIHdpZHRoPSIzNjQiIGhlaWdodD0iNTY4IiByeD0iMTgyIi8+CiAgICAgICAgPGNpcmNsZSBmaWxsLW9wYWNpdHk9Ii4xIiBmaWxsPSIjMDAwIiBjeD0iMjQ5IiBjeT0iMTcyIiByPSIxMDAiLz4KICAgIDwvZz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]The purpose of these outdoor wheelchairs is to make sure everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to get outside and enjoy what we have here in Wisconsin.\r[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-Kayak-Launch-Merrick-SP-wdnr.jpg” alt=”Adaptive kayak launch” title_text=”Blog Post Kayak Launch Merrick SP Wdnr” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The new adaptive kayak and launch at Merrick State Park can be used by people with a wider variety of physical abilities than standard kayaks. Photo courtesy of WIDNR<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Accessible kayaks, launches, and beaches<\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

What’s the newest adaptive recreation feature at Wisconsin’s state park system? Adaptive kayaks and launches. Merrick State Park was the first to have an adaptive launch installed. Additionally, several places rent out adaptive kayaks, which feature enhanced stability, supports, and bracing.<\/p>\n

Wondering what the difference is between “universal” and “accessible”? They’re similar, but the word “accessible” sometimes implies that only people with severe disabilities would use it. “Universal” refers to resources that anyone could use, including folks with typical physical abilities. Much of the adaptive equipment is more “universal.”<\/p>\n

When considering universal vs. accessible, Zouski says, “Think of door-opening buttons – they were originally designed for people using wheelchairs… but how many people carrying lots of stuff or pushing strollers use those buttons?”<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to show up in a wheelchair or have a handicap parking sticker to use this stuff,\u201d Zouski pointed out. “I think the general public had kind of a misconception that you had to be severely disabled to use the adaptive equipment. And we\u2019re trying to promote that really, anyone can. Someone who\u2019s older and has balance issues, for example – go ahead and rent an adaptive kayak just like you would any other kayak.”<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-Acessible-cabin-improvements-at-Mirror-Lake-State-Park-by-Kara-McCarty.jpg” alt=”A paved area around a campire pit in front of a cabin” title_text=”Blog Post Acessible Cabin Improvements At Mirror Lake State Park By Kara McCarty” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

A paved area surrounding a campfire pit (funded by NRF) outside an accessible cabin at Mirror Lake State Park. This surface makes smore-making easier for people with mobility challenges. Photo by Kara McCarty<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Universal trails<\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

When determining whether a trail is accessible to all people, what should you consider or look for? Unfortunately, there\u2019s no ADA guidance for trails. Accessible trails do not need to be \u201cpaved.” And, paved trails aren\u2019t always<\/em> accessible, for example if there’s a step in the middle of a trail. Plus, people with mobility challenges are all different.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Nick Zouski” job_title=”Accessibility Coordinator, Wisconsn DNR” portrait_url=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iNTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjUwMCIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDUwMCA1MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+CiAgICA8ZyBmaWxsPSJub25lIiBmaWxsLXJ1bGU9ImV2ZW5vZGQiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGZpbGw9IiNFQkVCRUIiIGQ9Ik0wIDBoNTAwdjUwMEgweiIvPgogICAgICAgIDxyZWN0IGZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eT0iLjEiIGZpbGw9IiMwMDAiIHg9IjY4IiB5PSIzMDUiIHdpZHRoPSIzNjQiIGhlaWdodD0iNTY4IiByeD0iMTgyIi8+CiAgICAgICAgPGNpcmNsZSBmaWxsLW9wYWNpdHk9Ii4xIiBmaWxsPSIjMDAwIiBjeD0iMjQ5IiBjeT0iMTcyIiByPSIxMDAiLz4KICAgIDwvZz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]I use a power wheelchair that\u2019s pretty sturdy off-road, so what\u2019s accessible to me is different from someone who uses a walker and can\u2019t lift their feet very high. Is there a single step in the middle of the trail? What\u2019s the trail surface?\r\n\r\nI’d love to see more universal trails. Almost everyone who goes to a state property wants to hike.\r[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Generally, trails that have a firm or stable surface with no obvious obstacles can be used by nearly everyone. Paved trails, crushed granite or limestone trails, and boardwalks are usually considered universally accessible.<\/p>\n

The DNR’s Find a Park interactive map<\/a> shows all 59 universal trails within Wisconsin’s state parks, forests, and trails.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-Thanks-to-a-2023-grant-Newport-Wilderness-Society-disassembled-an-old-on-the-ground-boardwalk-that-was-often-flooded-and-replaced-it-with-a-handicap-accessible-one-Mark-Glasser.jpg” alt=”adults and children walking on boardwalk through forest” title_text=”Blog Post Thanks To A 2023 Grant, Newport Wilderness Society Disassembled An Old \u201con The Ground\u201d Boardwalk That Was Often Flooded, And Replaced It With A Handicap Accessible One Mark Glasser” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Newport State Park’s old \u201con the ground\u201d Fern Trail that was often flooded was replaced with this accessible boardwalk, thanks in part to a 2023 NRF grant. Photo by Mark Glasser<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Other universally-useful resources<\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The DNR has lots more accessibility options in the works. Accessible cabins are extremely popular, and usually booked. This implies that more folks would use these cabins if more of them were available. The DNR is hoping for more of them in the future to accommodate the demand.<\/p>\n

Gradually, state parks properties are also replacing their picnic tables. Universal picnic tables have clearance on both sides, so everyone can use them. Zouski said, \u201cWhenever we replace old tables, we\u2019re ordering universal ones.\u201d<\/p>\n

Another improvement is that every fishing pier built by the DNR going forward is accessible to people with disabilities, following ADA guidelines.<\/p>\n

Even in winter, universal access opportunities are available. This includes cross-country sit skis, plowed trails in winter, and boat launches cleared of snow to provide access for ice fishing.<\/p>\n

The DNR has a lot of adaptive recreation resources available on their website<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Zouski reiterated how much he wants folks to know these resources exist. And, to take advantage of them as they plan their outdoor adventures. \u201cWe want folks with varying abilities to be able to get out there and enjoy what everyone else does.\u201d<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Blog-post-Newport-State-Parks-Fern-Trail-is-being-updated-with-a-new-accessible-boardwalk-thanks-in-part-to-a-grant-from-NRFs-Norma-Stanley-DeBoer-Quiet-Trails-Fund.-Photo-Caitlin-Williamson.jpg” alt=”A new boardwalk stretches across an expanse of ferns” title_text=”Blog Post Newport State Park’s Fern Trail Is Being Updated With A New, Accessible Boardwalk Thanks In Part To A Grant From NRF’s Norma & Stanley DeBoer Quiet Trails Fund. Photo Caitlin Williamson” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||13px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Fern Trail’s new boardwalk is universally accessible. Photo by Caitlin Williamson<\/em><\/p>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Accessibility on NRF Field Trips<\/strong><\/h3>\r[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Wondering which NRF Field Trips are the best match for your abilities? Trip titles in the Field Trip Guidebook<\/a> are color coded with a physical demand rating to help you decide whether the activity level is right for you. 30 of the trips in 2024 are accessible to users of standard wheelchairs. Five trips have free all-terrain outdoor wheelchairs available for rent on-site. And – new in 2024 – trail descriptions have been added so attendees have more detailed information about the terrain.<\/p>\n

More about Field Trips accessibility:<\/p>\n