THE DESIGN OF SELF-GUILDING, INTERPRETATIVE, NATURE TRAILS ACCESSIBLE TO THE DISABLED

Summary

Nature trails which are accessible to the physically handicapped are an important means of providing opportunities for valuable outdoor experiences. To heighten these experiences and foster an appreciation for nature, accessible trails should make use of interpretative techniques which lead to a first-hand involvement with the natural environment. Two self-guilding, interpretative, woodland nature trails have been designed and constructed at the University of Guelph Arboretum which are accessible to the physically disabled. The loop trails have been modified from existing nature trails with one, the Sensate Trail, accessible to the visually handicapped and the other, the Woods Trail, accessible to wheelchair users. An important aspect of their design is that the trails are used by both handicapped and non-handicapped visitors.