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Trails for All

The Trails for All initiative aims to create universally accessible trails, through intentional trail planning that removes barriers to access and brings the outdoors to individuals of all abilities via trail improvements such as gentle grades, stable surfaces, and inclusive signage in Massachusetts.

Accessible trails benefit more than just people who use wheelchairs. They can provide safe, equitable access for seniors, people with various disabilities or mobilities considerations, small children and their caregivers, people recovering from injury or illness, and people with chronic pain or joint problems. 33%-47% of Massachusetts residents can benefit from accessible trails. Accessible woodland trails can also be a perfect entryway for individuals and families who have not had much exposure to, or feel less comfortable in, the outdoors. Accessible trails can  help expand outdoor access and foster deeper connections to nature.

Less than 10% of trails on state land are accessible (mostly rail trails often in more urbanized settings). More importantly, less than 0.5% of woodland, unpaved trails are accessible. As our population ages, the importance of providing a variety of accessible trail opportunities and experiences will become ever more critical. 

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What are Universally Accessible Trails?

“Universally accessible or 'All Persons' trails are multigenerational all-ability spaces that provide access to nature for everyone. They typically have a gentle grade, and firm, stable surfaces that allow for easier use of mobility devices. For folks with limited mobility, low vision, or blindness these trails are also easier to navigate because they have fewer barriers and inclusive wayfinding signage.”

— Unpaved Trails for All 

Objectives

The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) has established three objectives for the Trails for All Initiative that will result in tangible, demonstrable, and transformational change:

Host a Multi-Stakeholder Trail Access Working Group (TAWG) consisting of representatives from:
  • Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Trails and Universal Access Program 
  • Department of Fish and Game (DFG)
  • Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD)
  • Persons with disabilities, and disability and senior living advocates
  • Adaptive recreation providers
  • Non-profit trail and land trust organizations
  • Professional trail builders
  • Environmental justice communities
  • Municipal planners/officials 
Complete a Needs, Barriers, and Opportunities Assessment that will:
  • Review current access for people with disabilities and mobility considerations to paved and unpaved trails in Massachusetts;
  • Review best practices, including federal guidelines from the US Forest Service, and the United States Access Board accessibility standards for how to expand access, including considerations from people living with disabilities;
  • Review requirements of state and federal law; and consider the impact of current wetlands regulations and policy on the access to trails for people with disabilities
Complete an Accessible and Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Report that will:
  • Detail the current state of trail access
  • Identify goals for improving trail access and overcoming barriers
  • Make recommendations for state, local, and private programs, policies, and investments to maximize accessibility and adaptive trail and outdoor recreation experiences to make Massachusetts one of the most accessible and welcoming places to play outside 

Accessible Trails for All Public Comment Form

People gathered together for a photo
Unpaved Trails for All, AMC Staff, Disability Advocates, EEA, DCR, and UAP Staff, Senator Comerford, and Outdoor Accessibility Organizations Gathered at AMC Noble View All Persons Trail in Russell to Celebrate the Launch of Trails for All in 2024

The Accessible Trails Public Forum invites people with disabilities, their families, advocates, trail designers, and land managers to share insights and experiences to improve trails in Massachusetts. Please fill out to the form below to share your ideas.

Share your ideas on how to improve trail accessibility 

Trail Access Working Group

The Multi-Stakeholder Trail Access Working Group (TAWG) is dedicated to enhancing trail accessibility and promoting inclusive outdoor experiences across Massachusetts.

Learn more about TAWG 

Resources

Programs, events, and organization's that work to expand access to outdoor recreation.

DCR Universal Access Program 

Universal Access Program Logo

Learn More  about DCR Universal Access Program 

Accessible Trails in MA 

Accessible Trail

Learn More  about Accessible Trails in MA 

Unpaved Trails for All  

Trails4all

Learn More  about Unpaved Trails for All  

Examples of Accessible Trails in MA

Accessible Trail in Concord, MA

Brewsters Woods All-Persons Trail, Mass Audubon owned, (Appalachian Mountain Club) AMC constructed. Concord, MA


 

Accessible Trail in Concord, MA

Harold Parker accessible trail, constructed and managed by DCR. Concord, MA


 

Accessible Trail in Worcester, MA

Coes Park, City of Worcester, and Greater Worcester Land Trust. Funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund stateside program. Worcester, MA


 

Accessible Trail in Russell, MA

Noble View All Persons Trail, Appalachian Mountain Club. 2022 Mass Trails funding. Russell, MA


 

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