Visiting all 50 states is a bucket list item for many, but hiking in all of them with a wheelchair user is a unique challenge. We set out to complete this goal with Kellisa, not just once, but twice. From the humid swamps of the South to the frozen lakes of the North, we sought out disabled hiking opportunities in every corner of the nation. This mission was a celebration of survival and a testament to the fact that adventure is possible for everyone.
Finding Wheelchair Trails in Every State
The diversity of the American landscape is staggering. In some states, finding wheelchair trails was easy, thanks to well-maintained state parks. In others, we had to get creative, utilizing utility roads or levees. We found that every state, no matter how flat or rugged, has a hidden gem waiting to be discovered if you are willing to look for it.
Logistics of Nationwide Disabled Hiking
Traveling cross-country with a medical complexity requires military-grade logistics. Disabled hiking on this scale involves coordinating flights, rental cars, and accessible lodging. We learned to pack our "hospital on wheels" efficiently, ensuring we had feeding pumps, medications, and hiking gear ready for any environment we encountered.
Coastal and Mountain Wheelchair Trails
We experienced the extremes of elevation. In the Rockies, wheelchair trails meant managing steep switchbacks and thinning air. On the coasts, it meant dealing with sand and wind. Each terrain offered a different lesson in "pushiking," teaching us to adapt our techniques to the ground beneath our wheels.
The Impact of Disabled Hiking on Family
This journey was a family affair. Disabled hiking brought us closer together, forcing us to rely on each other. Kellisa’s sister, Egypt, grew up on these trails, learning empathy and grit. The shared goal of reaching the 50th state gave us a collective purpose that transcended the daily struggles of medical care.
Unexpected Beauty on Wheelchair Trails
Some of our favorite memories came from unexpected places. The wheelchair trails in places like North Dakota’s badlands or Oklahoma’s mesas stunned us with their beauty. It reminded us that you don't always need to go to the famous National Parks to find breathtaking scenery and solitude.
Documenting the Disabled Hiking Journey
We kept a record of every hike to inspire others. By documenting our disabled hiking adventures, we hope to provide a roadmap for other families. We want to show that with a little planning, the barrier to entry is lower than it seems, and the whole country is open for exploration.
Conclusion
Completing the 50 states challenge was a triumph of will. It proved that a medical diagnosis does not have to be a sentence of confinement.
We hope our story inspires you to start your own list. Whether it is 50 states or 50 local parks, wheelchair trails are waiting to lead you to your next great adventure.
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