SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. — The Great Smoky Mountain National Park and its partners have announced the expansion of adaptive ranger-led programs in 2024.
The ranger-led programs are designed for visitors of all abilities and their families to learn about the history of the Smoky Mountains using assistive technology, according to the park.
“We strive to create equal and accessible experiences for visitors of all abilities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” Superintendent Cassius Cash said. “And we are thrilled to work with our partners to expand the adaptive programs and offer off-road wheelchairs.”
Expanding on the adaptive programs, the park mentioned this year’s lineup, which includes three opportunities for hiking, two for biking, one for kayaking and one overnight camping trip:
- June 8-9: Hiking Cooper Rd Trail and camping at backcountry campsite #1
- June 22: Kayaking from Fontana Marina
- July 13: Hiking at Hazel Creek Hike/Boat Tour
- Sept. 7: Hiking at Bradley Fork Trail
- Sept. 14: Biking at Deep Creek Trai
- Sept. 15: Biking at Forge Creek Road
- Oct. 5: Hiking at Middle Prong Trail or Little River Trail
The new adaptive program kicked off on June 8 with a hike taking wheelchair users out into the mountains for an overnight backcountry camping trip.
"You're really fully immersed in the wildness that is the Smokies. You'll hear nature. You'll hear you'll hear creeks," said Emily Davis, public affairs specialist for the park. "To be able to get wheelchair users into the backcountry. It's something that hasn't really happened in the park before."
Exploring national parks has often been a challenge for people like Vicky Wallace, making these adaptive programs all the more special.
"When I was put into a chair. I thought it was over. I believed in my heart I would never hike again," said Wallace. " To have the GRIT chair and make it possible again with help. It is life-changing and life-affirming the Smokies can be accessible to everyone."
Wallace said the overnight camping trip means so much.
"It's not all about a chair. It's about getting out in nature again," said Wallace, "I'm enjoying it so much. Next to this creek, and you hear the creek, you can see the trees growing."
Wallace said that it is freedom to get out and experience nature again.
According to park leaders, the public can check out wheelchairs at the visitor's center and use them on approved trails. The park said that visitors can learn more on its website.