All-Terrain Wheelchair Access Program 

 

Thanks to the generous support of Open Trail Collective, the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park is excited to offer a new way for visitors with disabilities, injuries, and mobility challenges to experience the park! 

Through a community-led effort, the GRIT Freedom Chair (Spartan model) is now available for visitors to borrow at no cost!  

 

Submit a Request

 

About the GRIT Freedom Chair 

The GRIT Freedom Chair is a rugged, all-terrain wheelchair built for the outdoors. It is a self-propelled chair that uses mountain bike components to roll over rocks, roots, gravel, mud, puddles, and uneven terrain found in CVNP. The chair also comes equipped with rear handles so a friend or family member can assist. 

Specifications: 

  • Seat width: 18 inches 
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds 
  • Additional details available upon request 

 

How to Borrow the Chair 

We realize that every visit looks different! We are happy to tailor an experience that fits your needs. Reserving the chair is simple: 

  1. Reach out to us: Please email [email protected] with your preferred dates and any details that will help us plan your visit. 
  2. Plan ahead: Please submit requests at least two weeks in advance when possible. 
  3. Choose your time: The chair is typically available in 2-4 hour time blocks, which is perfect for heading north or south on the Towpath Trail. If you’re hoping to stay out longer or explore another trail, let us now! Extended uses may be possible with advanced notice and availability. 
  4. Request a trail companion (optional): Trained staff or volunteers may be available to join you on the trail as a knowledgeable guide to the park- just let us know in your request! 
  5. Confirmation: Our team will follow up to confirm availability or suggest alternate dates and times.  

We understand plans can come together quickly and will do our best to accommodate shorter notice requests when possible. 

 

Pickup & Orientation 

Your visit will begin with a brief introduction to the chair so you can feel comfortable heading out on the trails. 

Pickup Location  

Boston Store Accessible Parking Area 
1550 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula, OH 44264

Additional directions shared upon confirmation.

Orientation
  • Conservancy staff or trained volunteers will greet you in the parking area and assist with check-in—please bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to sign a waiver 
  • A brief orientation and training will be provided for new users 
  • You will have time to get comfortable with the chair and ask any questions before heading out 
  • For safety reasons, staff and volunteers cannot assist with transfers into the chair 

Questions? 

We’d love to answer any questions and ensure you have a great experience at CVNP! Contact us at [email protected] for more information.