People with mobility issues will have expanded access to Georgia’s state parks and outdoor spaces thanks to an expansion of the Outdoors Beyond Barriers Initiative.
Nine new Action Trackchairs (ATC) will be available at eight additional parks this year, bringing the total number of available ATCs to 20 at 19 locations. This expansion is part of a project to make outdoor activities more accessible to people with physical limitations.
In addition to the ATCs, people with disabilities will also have access to GRIT Chairs, which are a combination of a manual wheelchair and a mountain bike.
These chairs make it easier for people with disabilities to traverse various terrains.
“The addition of these chairs at our state parks will help to remove some of the obstacles associated with getting outdoors for those with mobility issues,” said Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon. “I’m excited to see the Outdoors Beyond Barriers program continue to grow, making the outdoors more accessible for all Georgians, as well as our out-of-state visitors.”
State park visitors may reserve ATCs through All Terrain Georgia’s website, www.allterraingeorgia.org.
Other accessibility options
The Outdoors Beyond Barriers program is part of Georgia DNR’s renewed commitment to expanding accessible hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities to those with physical limitations.
Also new this year, some state parks will offer color accessibility glasses to color-blind visitors, ensuring everyone can experience the full spectrum of nature’s beauty.
Other accessibility options include ADA cabins and accessible trails. Also, ADA kayak launches are available at Hard Labor Creek State Park, Jack Hill State Park, and Vogel State Park. An ADA horse ramp at Don Carter State Park enables accessible horseback riding.
DNR also helps organize special accessible hunts at select Georgia state parks and wildlife management areas.
For more information on the hunts, visit https://gadnr.org/hunting-accessibilities.
Visit the Georgia DNR website for more information on the Outdoors Beyond Barriers Initiative and to check the availability of accessibility features at specific state parks.
