Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches ‘Trails for All’ Initiative to Build Universally Accessible Trails

RUSSELL — The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched Trails for All, a comprehensive initiative that will review the current state of universally accessible trails in Massachusetts. Through intentional trail planning, the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) plans to promote inclusivity for people with disabling conditions and other mobility considerations by implementing trail improvements such as gentle grades, stable surfaces, and inclusive signage. The initiative will assess the condition of accessible trails to ensure outdoor recreational activities are available to people living with disabilities, low-income residents, and communities of color. MOOR will convene a multi-stakeholder Trail Access Working Group (TAWG), conduct an extensive accessible trails assessment, and publish a report on Accessible and Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities.

“Trails connect us to the outdoors and to each other,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Massachusetts has thousands of trails, yet less than 10 percent of those on public lands are universally accessible. Access to nature is a fundamental right, and it is imperative that we reevaluate and reimagine the possibilities for accessible design and recreation outdoors.” 

“The movement for increased accessibility in the outdoors, has been building momentum. The support of dedicated partners like Unpaved Trails for All, Appalachian Mountain Club, and disability advocates has been invaluable in laying the foundation for this work,” said MOOR Director Paul Jahnige. “Ensuring individuals who use mobility aids can enjoy nature, no matter the season or terrain opens the door for all communities to access the trails.”

“Thousands of people connect to the outdoors in Massachusetts each year through AMC, and we believe people of all ages and abilities should be able to use to high quality trails and outdoor recreation experiences,” said Appalachian Mountain Club Vice President for Conservation Policy and Advocacy Heather Clish. “Universally accessible natural surface trails ensure that everyone can connect with nature and each other. We are thrilled to see the Healey-Driscoll Administration take this critical first action towards making the Commonwealth a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable place to get outside.” 

“I'm excited that MOOR is forming the Trail Access Work Group, and thrilled that Director Jahnige is taking a leadership role in this initiative,” said Unpaved Trails for All Founder Meg Bandarra. “The issue of trail accessibility is one that encompasses equity, environmental justice, civil rights, and public health. The establishment of this trail access work group is a vital starting point on the path towards making Massachusetts a more inclusive and equitable place to live and recreate.” 

Universally Accessible or “All Persons” trails benefit populations that use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and canes. Trails that meet accessibility standards provide safe, equitable access for seniors, people with disabilities or mobility considerations, and small children to enjoy nature. Less than 10 percent of the state's thousands of miles of boardwalks, bikeways, and multi-use trails are considered universally accessible. According to census data, nearly half of Massachusetts residents would benefit from accessible trails. Accessible woodland trails are a perfect entryway for individuals and families who have had limited exposure to outdoor recreational activities. 

“Access to open spaces is essential for building healthy communities, and we are dedicated to making our parks, trails and beaches welcoming and safe for all,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “At DCR we are able to provide recreational opportunities for people of all abilities through our Universal Access Program. The launch of the Trails for All initiative, will enable us to expand on these efforts to enhance accessibility to our trails, ensuring that everyone can enjoy our beautiful outdoor spaces—regardless of ability, race, language, or income.”

“The Trails for All initiative is a crucial step in enhancing our Universal Access Program's mission to provide inclusive recreational opportunities for everyone,” said DCR’s UAP Director Tom McCarthy. “By focusing on accessibility improvements and inclusive design, we are not only expanding access to our trails but also ensuring that we are creating welcoming environments that foster community health and well-being, making the outdoors accessible for all.”  

“More and more people are turning to outdoor recreation — and specifically Massachusetts trails — to benefit their mental and physical health. Trails are also key to community building and economic development. Yet, only a fraction of the 4,000 miles of unpaved trails in the Commonwealth are universally accessible,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). “I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for convening the Trail Access Working Group to understand and improve equitable access to trails for Massachusetts residents. My gratitude also extends to an array of fierce advocates who have called us to this work.”

"As a long-time, advocate for expanding access to trails, and Co-Chair of the Legislatures Trails Caucus,” said State Representative Michelle L. Ciccolo (D-15^th Middlesex).  “I am thrilled that MOOR has answered this call to seriously address concerns of advocates, legislators, and community members to ensure that the benefits of outdoor recreation are available to us all."

"Working to assess and expand access to the outdoors to people of all ages and abilities is an important step forward for Massachusetts,” said All Out Adventures Executive Director Karen Foster. “We all benefit from access to trails and time in nature, and I am thrilled that MOOR will be leading this critical effort to expand access to nature to those who have traditionally been excluded."

MOOR will host a Trail Access Working Group (TAWG) to identify challenges and set goals for improving state trail access. Recommendations from disability and senior living advocates, professional trail builders, and multiple state agencies will inform policies, and investments in adaptive trail design and outdoor recreation. In collaboration with MOOR, the working group will comprehensively assess paved and unpaved trail usability for people with disabilities and mobility considerations. Federal guidelines from the US Forest Service and the United States Access Board accessibility standards, in addition to guidance from the disability community advocates, will inform proposed trail improvements. These efforts will culminate in an Accessible and Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Report published by MOOR as the first in many actions to improve trail accessibility in Massachusetts.  

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