Accessible Trails, Inclusive Programs: Why Your Organization Needs Both
Outdoor recreation is more than a perk—it’s a key component of health, community connection, and belonging. Yet far too many trails, parks, and programs leave people with disabilities on the sidelines—because the barriers are built into the system. That’s where I come in.
With over a decade of experience as a physical therapist plus deep engagement in adaptive recreation (for example, for adults with disabilities through organizations like No Barriers USA and Cycling Without Age), I founded Every Body Outside Consulting to support land managers, nonprofits, and outdoor-recreation providers in shifting away from “compliance only” toward meaningful, inclusive design and programming.
Here’s what I can bring to your organization:
1. Education & Training
Whether it’s a half-day workshop or a leadership session, I deliver education sessions tailored to your team’s roles. These go beyond the basics of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to explore what accessibility really means in outdoor settings—online registration, trailhead access, gear, transportation, signage and more. As one client shared:
“The training was so well received… our staff members left the training inspired to approach their responsibilities with an accessibility-focused mindset.” — Julie Enderby, Larimer County Department of Natural Resources.
2. Program Development for All Abilities
Don’t just bolt on inclusion—build it in. I help you design or refine your programs so that people with mobility, sensory or cognitive disabilities are considered from the start. We cover everything from participant recruitment, adaptive-equipment strategy, emergency action planning, and partnerships with disability-led or inclusive organizations. One testimonial:
“Kelsey has helped No Barriers identify how to better support people affected by disabilities in the Fort Collins and greater Colorado community.” — Emily Bastos, Program Director, No Barriers.
3. Trail & Facility Audits
A trail looks accessible until someone with a mobility device tries it. I use a trail audit tool developed with people with disabilities in Northern Colorado to assess your existing trails, picnic areas, restrooms, parking, route signage, and more. We identify barriers, suggest practical improvements, and translate them into actionable plans aligned with your values and strategic goals. We have done this from the Purgatoire Watershed Partnership down in Trinidad to the City of Greeley Natural Areas.
Why This Matters — And Why Now
Broader impact: Accessible trails and programs serve not only people with disabilities, but older adults, families with strollers, and anyone recovering from injury. Investing here means reaching more people.
Reputation and mission alignment: Your organization has a stake in inclusion, equity, and serving community. Being intentional about accessibility sends a strong signal: “Everyone belongs here.”
Risk mitigation and smart investment: Rather than waiting for a barrier complaint or retrofit scramble, a proactive audit and training ensures you’re ahead of evolving expectations and inclusive practice.
Culture change: Accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s about how your organization thinks, plans and operates. Training and development reinforce that shift.
If You’re Ready for Next Steps
Over the coming year I have a few openings for new partnerships. Whether you’re planning a new trail segment, revisiting your outdoor program strategy, or simply looking to build an inclusive culture in your organization—let’s talk. I’ll work with you to define scope, align with your budget and timeline, and tailor the approach that fits your team.
Send me a message or schedule a quick call. Together, we’ll create outdoor spaces and programs where every body can participate, thrive, and enjoy.
#OutdoorAccessibility #TrailAudit #InclusivePrograms #UniversalDesign #EveryBodyOutside