“Disability is the only identity that anyone can suddenly take on at any time.”

 Emily Ladau 'Demystifying Disability'

Our goal is to remove barriers & help more people connect with nature

To schedule a visit, contact the Trail Accessibility Program Coordinator, Hannah Silverblank, at [email protected].

Before their first ride, participants must complete the TerrainHopper User Information Form and read our liability waiver. We'll also schedule a short conversation to discuss accessibility needs, answer questions, and ensure we are prepared to support your visit.

Most reservations are scheduled for two-hour sessions, though timing may be flexible based on individual needs and availability.

The video above shows the first test drive of the TerrainHopper by a wheelchair user. We have hired several people with mobility limitations to test the rig, and share feedback about their experience.

The TerrainHopper requires riders to transfer into the TerrainHopper seat. Riders should plan to attend with a caregiver, family member, friend, or support person who can provide any necessary physical assistance during transfers.

Our staff and volunteers are familiar with both the TerrainHopper and the transfer area, and can work with you to develop a safe, comfortable transfer plan. However, staff do not provide hands-on lifting. We can set up the Track & Lift system, stabilize equipment, assist with setup, adjust seating and controls, help position the TerrainHopper, and provide guidance throughout the transfer process.

Visitors are welcome to bring transfer boards, positioning supports, slings, or any other equipment that is part of their usual transfer routine. We also have a Track & Lift System available for anyone who would like to use it.

Rest Rooms

Distant Hill has two wheelchair-accessible portable restrooms available for visitors:

• One is located in the main parking area near the pavilion.
• One is located along the trail system near the entrance to the gardens.

If scheduled restroom breaks would help make your visit more comfortable, please let us know when planning your ride.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome. Please let us know in advance if you plan to bring a service animal so that we can discuss trail conditions and any accommodations that may be helpful.

We also welcome disability service organizations, rehabilitation programs, assisted living communities, and other community groups that support people with mobility limitations to incorporate the TerrainHopper into a visit to Distant Hill.

We currently have one TerrainHopper available, and riders typically reserve individual two-hour time slots. Organizations are also welcome to plan group visits, during which participants can enjoy the property and our wheelchair-accessible trail system while one person at a time uses the TerrainHopper to explore the broader trail network.

Our Trail Accessibility Program Volunteers are available to help ensure riders feel comfortable and supported. They can:

• Provide a brief orientation on operating the TerrainHopper
• Assist with transfers into and out of the vehicle, if needed
• Help riders navigate the trail system safely
• Answer questions and help make the experience enjoyable

If your organization is interested in bringing participants to Distant Hill, we encourage you to contact us in advance so we can help coordinate timing and answer any questions about the TerrainHopper or accessibility on the property. In some circumstances, and depending on volunteer availability, we may be able to accommodate bookings that extend beyond the typical two-hour window.

We’re excited to work with community partners to help more people experience the beauty and benefits of time in nature. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to explore ways we can collaborate.

Contact:

Hannah Silverblank, Trail Accessibility Program Coordinator, at [email protected]