What We Do
The Trail Accessibility Hub (TAH) is dedicated to creating accessible outdoor experiences for everyone. Our collaborative initiatives focus on providing the resources, support, and information needed to enhance trail accessibility across Vermont.
Resources
The Trail Accessibility Hub fosters collaboration between organizations to enhance trail accessibility for everyone. As a comprehensive digital resource, the Hub offers essential information on best management practices, guidelines, events, example assessments, and opportunities for learning and networking. It also provides updates on funding opportunities and showcases accessible and adaptive trails across the state. Coming soon, the Hub will feature a lending library with tools like a Leica device for trail design and an adaptive mountain bike for testing trails. Stay connected by signing up for our enews to keep up with the latest developments.
There is also a wealth of national resources dedicated to improving trail accessibility. American Trails’ accessibility hub features recorded webinars, compliance resources, and usability guides aimed to strengthen your knowledge and skills.
Assessments
We conduct thorough assessments of existing trails and potential trail sites to evaluate their accessibility. These assessments, often carried out with the help of individuals with mobility challenges, include a comprehensive review of parking facilities, signage, trail surfaces, and amenities like toilets and picnic areas. Our assessments are designed to help trail managers understand the current state of their trails and identify areas for improvement.
Trail Finder
It isn’t easy to find resources on how to build or amend trails so that people with mobility challenges can fully enjoy them. As part of this project, we will be enhancing and expanding content about accessible trails on Trail Finder, including but not limited to maximum trail grade, tread width, surface consistency, parking lot accessibility, and wayfinding, and improve searchability and tools for presenting accessible trail information.
There is also a wealth of national resources dedicated to improving trail accessibility. American Trails’ accessibility hub features recorded webinars, compliance resources, and usability guides aimed to strengthen your knowledge and skills.
Workshops & Webinars
We offer a variety of workshops and webinars to educate trail managers and builders on the best practices for creating and maintaining accessible trails. These training sessions cover everything from basic accessibility guidelines to advanced techniques for building adaptive trails. By sharing our knowledge, we aim to empower others to contribute to the creation of inclusive outdoor spaces.
Funding
Creating accessible trails often requires significant funding. We help trail managers identify and apply for grants, such as the Recreation Trail Program (RTP) and the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) Community Grant Program. Our team is also constantly on the lookout for new funding opportunities and shares these resources with our partners and the broader community.
Advising
Our work is driven by collaboration with a wide range of partners, including Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, Vermont Mountain Bike Association, Upper Valley Trails Alliance, Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Community Geographics, and local trail users. Together, we are developing a comprehensive set of recommendations and a sustainability plan to ensure that our efforts continue to benefit the community long after the initial funding period.
Are you interested in an assessment or want to learn more about the Trail Accessibility Hub? Fill out the form below!
Raising Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness about the importance of trail accessibility. Through our newsletters, social media, and public events, we share success stories, highlight ongoing projects, and provide valuable information to the community. Our goal is to inspire others to join us in making Vermont’s trails more accessible for everyone.
Accessibility Hub Partners
