Access for All: Pure Michigan!
MI parks/beaches improve access for those with disabilities
Did you know...
Michigan has made large strides to make parks and beaches more accessible for those with disabilities. Across the state there are 28 accessible beach parks, 31 accessible fishing spots and 34 accessible scenic viewpoints and trails. The state also has six state parks and recreation areas that have accessible kayak launches. These sites have a transfer bench and slide that enables participants to sit and slide into the kayak.
Last year, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a $250 million investment to update state parks, including updates to make parks more accessible, including at Tahquamenon Fall State Park in the Upper Peninsula. Those improvements range from wheelchair accessible trails and kayak launches, to off-road electric wheelchairs that give the disabled access to beaches.
There are about 400 track chairs now throughout Michigan, according to Bryan Wilkinson, a member of the Michigan Accessibility Advisory Council and owner of Michigan Trackchair. Track chairs are spread out across 11 parks in the state.