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TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Arizona State Parks launched the Arizona Adaptive Mobility Program, opening trails to people with physical disabilities who have been unable to access the state’s rocky terrain.
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The program offers 10 TerrainHoppers at designated trails around the state. The electric-powered off-road vehicles give wheelchair users and people with physical disabilities access to trails that were once out of reach.
Adam Finney, an adaptive cyclist for 15 years, said his outdoor experience is often limited to paved paths. With the TerrainHopper, wheelchair users can safely navigate sand, rocks, hills and uneven ground.
“Whether your grandma wants to go birding and just get off the concrete path and get out into the desert for a little bit or kids with families or whatever it may be, it’s just great to see everyone has access to trails,” Finney said.
Chelsea Stein, a professional wheelchair racer, said the program gives her a chance to slow down.
“I’m not going for speed, I get to do what everyone else gets to do: enjoy the nature not having any of the barriers,” Stein said.
Non-profit Hoppers for Heroes donated the 10 TerrainHoppers being rolled out in phases around the state. Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports partnered with Arizona State Parks to train rangers, as the organization also has a fleet of mobility vehicles.
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Mia Hansen, executive director of Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports, said the program is an important step in improving park accessibility.
“By identifying trails that are more accessible and getting that information out to the public, now more people can use and access these public parks,” Hansen said.
The closest TerrainHopper rental in Southern Arizona is at Oracle State Park. Reservations are open online or by phone with a $50 refundable deposit. Users must watch a short safety video ahead of time, review the rules and bring a trail advocate who is 18 or older.
Reservations will be available online for up to 60 days in advance at Rockin’ River Ranch, Lake Havasu and Oracle state parks, with additional parks added as TerrainHoppers are built and delivered to the parks.
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