Accessible Travel & Recreation

News Release Date:April 17, 2024

Contact: Emily Davis

GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The National Park Service (NPS), in partnership with Catalyst Sports, Knox County, Kampgrounds of America Foundation, and Friends of the Smokies, is pleased to announce the expansion of adaptive ranger-led programs in 2024. Using assistive technology, the ranger-led programs are designed for visitors of all abilities and their families to learn about the natural and cultural history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.       

“We strive to create equal and accessible experiences for visitors of all abilities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” said Superintendent Cassius Cash. “And we are thrilled to work with our partners to expand the adaptive programs and offer off-road wheelchairs.”  

Expanding on the adaptive programs offered in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the first time in 2023, this year’s lineup includes three opportunities for hiking, two for biking, one for kayaking and one overnight camping trip:  

https://meridian.allenpress.com/the-new-review/article/doi/10.56733/TNR.23.004/500099/Guide-Running-A-Primer-for-Educators-and-Coaches

Click image below for video modeling of guide running.

Murdo Smith Adaptive Sailing Regatta was held on Saturday, March 9, at Sugden Regional Park, in partnership with Collier County Parks and Recreation. We had a number of sailors and incredible amount of support for each of them, from family members to volunteers and the lake's staff. Thank you to all who made it possible.

And, thank you to all our sailors who show up and learn to sail to the best of their ability! It was another great day on the water!

Click image to see photos of all the fun!

by Lily Girma, Bloomberg News/TNS | February 27, 2024

https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2024/02/27/accessible-travel-a-58-billion-market-gets-its-first-one-stop-shop/30761/