Access Adventure: Hiking- Illinois

Short Description

Elk & deer & geese, oh my! Wonder what else you may see when you join us for an evening hike. With adaptive techniques and equipment, we make hiking accessible to a wide range of abilities! What better than to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and push yourself to see what you can accomplish? 

Goals 

• Learn hiking skills and trail etiquette 
• Promote independence and fixate on what you can do 
• Enrich a sense of community, trust, challenge and accomplishment 

Schedule 

We are currently accepting participants in a singular session (6:30- 8:00 pm CST). You MUST register to attend and registration will close every Thursday at 2:00 pm CST. If you show up without registering, we will not be able to accommodate you. Please arrive on time. 

Who Can Attend? 

We have opportunities for anyone with a primary physical or visual disability! Whether you have little to no experience hiking, or have an exceptional skill level, you are invited to join us. We will be venturing on easy to moderately difficult trails. Therefore, participants must be able to follow directions and effectively communicate with or without assistance provided by themselves to be eligible. 

What Can I Expect? 

We will educate and assist on getting around obstacles, as well as discuss general trail etiquette as you hike over various terrain. You can choose to travel as a group, being led by a staff or volunteer member, or seek adventure at your own pace. According to the National Park Service, benefits of hiking include: building stronger muscles and bones, improving sense of balance, decreasing risk of respiratory problems, mood boost and improvement of mental health, as well as opening your senses to your surroundings and improving your sensory perception. 

How Should I Dress & Things to bring? 

Participants are encouraged to wear breathable and/or moisture wicking clothing, as well as comfortable and supportive shoes (such as hiking boots, closed-toed shoes, hiking sandals). Although we may come across water, we recommend not to wear water-shoes, as they are not made for nor supportive of trails. No other equipment will be needed.

Timeliness 

You must register to attend this event. Please arrive on time. Please notify staff in case of cancellation, running late, or any other event. 

Contact Information 

 Questions? Contact: 

Jourdan Thunberg – Jourdan.thunberg@adaptiveadventures.org 

Or 

Katherine Wofford – mwintern@adaptiveadventures.org 

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