All People’s Trails: Trails Designed to Go Beyond ADA Guidelines

When looking at trail accessibility, there are a lot of titles out there. You may see trails labeled as “wheelchair accessible” or even “ADA accessible.” These terms can be misleading as the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) does not provide standards for trail systems, and the term “wheelchair accessible” is not often well defined. All Peoples Trails aim to change that by making the outdoors accessible for everyone, no matter their age or ability with specific standards adhering to the US Forest Service Guidelines and Outdoor Development Areas Guidelines (ODAAG). All People’s Trails are inclusive in acknowledging that following these guidelines does not only help those with disabilities, but also people who are older or using strollers or beginners in hiking.

Let’s explore the essential features and specifications that make All Peoples Trails truly inclusive and how they help connect us all to the natural world.

Key Specifications

Creating an accessible trail takes thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Here are some of the key elements that make All Peoples Trails work for everyone:

1. Trail Surface

   • Firm and Stable: The trails should have a solid, stable surface—think packed gravel or crusher, asphalt, or boardwalks—so that people using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers can navigate easily.

2. Trail Width

   • Minimum Width: The trail needs to be at least 36 inches wide to allow someone in a wheelchair to pass comfortably. In busier areas, it should be 60 inches wide or have wider pull-off areas at regular intervals, making it easier for everyone to share the space.

3. Trail Grade (Slope)

   • Gentle Slopes: Ideally, trails should have a gentle slope that doesn’t exceed 5% (1:20). If the trail has to be steeper, it should only be for short distances with ideally more than 70% of the trail <8.3% (1:12).

   • Resting Intervals: If the slope gets steeper, there should be level spots where people can take a break without feeling worn out.

4. Trail Length

   • Short and Long Options: All Peoples Trails should offer a variety of lengths, including shorter, manageable loops and longer, more adventurous routes for those looking for a challenge. Loop trails are especially nice because they provide multiple access points and let users decide how long they want to be out in nature.

5. Clearance Height

   • Minimum Height: Protruding objects such as signs and/or branches should not be within 36 inches wide and 80 inches tall to make sure that everyone, including those using mobility aids or guiding service animals, can navigate without issues.

6. Signage and Wayfinding

   • Tactile and Braille Signage: Signs should have tactile information and braille to support visitors who are visually impaired.

   • Visual Contrast: Using high-contrast colors and large fonts helps those with low vision easily read the signs.

   • Audible Markers: For those who are blind or have low vision, audible markers or guides along the trail can assist with navigation.

There are many other ways to improve access outside of these standards including increased public transportation to the trailheads, having rentals for adaptive equipment including off road wheelchairs and/or adaptive bikes, increased seating along the trail, and prioritizing shade at rest breaks. All of these factors affect a person’s ability to use your space fully and feel welcome.

The Healing Power of Nature

Access to the outdoors isn’t just about being able to enjoy a nice walk in the woods—it’s also about tapping into the healing benefits of nature. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental health, and boost cognitive function. For people with disabilities or chronic illnesses, experiencing nature can be especially important. Forty four percent of people with disabilities have depression compared to fifteen percent of the general population. We NEED to provide safe, healing spaces that are accessible for equity to these healing benefits.

Conclusion: Creating Spaces for All

All Peoples Trails, designed with universal design principles, offer access to the outdoors for everyone. Whether you’re walking with a cane, pushing a stroller, or guiding someone with visual impairments, these trails make sure no one gets left behind. The specific design elements—gentle slopes, firm surfaces, clear signage, and accessible rest areas—aren’t just features; they’re part of a bigger mission to bring the healing benefits of nature to all people, regardless of ability.

Nature is a form of medicine, and trails designed for everyone ensure that everyone can enjoy its therapeutic power. The outdoors truly belongs to all of us—and with thoughtful design, we can create spaces that reflect that reality.

If you want to learn more about how to apply these principles to your space, please contact me.