Wild Access Collective

             where the pavement ends…            

The Wild Access Collective is a low-tread, community-centered, participatory effort to promote and increase mobility access to unpaved nature trails.

Completing our simple survey during or after a unpaved outing in Western North Carolina (WNC) will help us gather and assess information about what trails may be more accessible to those with mobility challenges.

  • This survey tool helps document trail conditions specifically for individuals with mobility considerations, focusing on unpaved trails that are often overlooked in traditional accessibility assessments. Your careful observations will help others make informed decisions about which trails they can access, and what to expect when they do.

  • Do you share our ideal of an inclusive community where everybody can explore and adventure together? Then let’s build it together! By participating and crowd-sourcing information, we can break down barriers, increase accessibility awareness and aim more inclusive wild spaces.

  • Surface Conditions: Pay special attention to:

    • Trail width (note sections narrower than 32 inches)

    • Surface material (gravel, dirt, rocks, etc.)

    • Stability of the surface

    • Obstacles or barriers

    Grade and Cross Slope:

    • Note any challenging inclines

    • Identify areas where the trail tilts sideways

    • Mark locations where extra assistance might be needed

    Access Points:

    • Document parking area conditions

    • Note distance from parking to trailhead

    • Identify any barriers at the trailhead (gates, steps, etc.)

    Rest Areas:

    • Mark locations of benches or natural resting spots

    • Note shade availability

    • Document distance between rest areas

    Safety Considerations:

    • Cell phone coverage

    • Emergency access points

    • Distance from facilities or assistance

    • Other safety considerations such as road crossings

Starting in Western North Carolina, USA and Kent, England…

We invite you to join us in making unpaved wild spaces more accessible through participatory design.

Want to get more involved? Email us today.

Meet the Team

“It inspired me to reconnect with my friends and go out and make a difference”

Ryan is a former cross-fit fanatic who found running, biking and hiking the unpaved trails of Western North Carolina to be both therapeutic and exhilarating.

It wasn’t until he had the opportunity to go mountain biking with Catalyst Sports and some friends, he realized the freedom that accessible bikes and equipment can offer.

MOBILITY RESOURCES