The Track Chair Program at Staunton State Park seeks to provide trail accessibility for those who require a wheelchair, all while preserving the park and its natural resources.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife wants to give every visitor the chance to experience our state's natural beauty, and through the Track Chair Program at Staunton State Park, people who are wheelchair-bound are given the opportunity to explore trails in the park. The program opened on the last weekend of May and the first two participants (pictured below) helped cut the ribbon with the assistance of the park's manager Zach Taylor. [caption id="attachment_16859" align="aligncenter" width="960"] (left) Cindy Christensen and (right) Lisa Williams with park manager Zach Taylor.[/caption] Use of the Track Chair is free of charge. A park pass is required on vehicles to enter the park, and a day pass costs $7 per vehicle. The all-terrain wheelchair moves and operates like a tank and is able to go off-road on dirt trails as well as up inclines. Guests are not allowed to bring pets or service animals with them while using the track chair. If it is necessary, however, the pet or service animal will need to be under someone else's control. All park personnel have been trained in getting guests familiar with the track chair equipment as well as proper trail etiquette. If a guest has not been in a track chair before, there will be an "obstacle course" test prior to hitting the trails. Park staff will provide guests with basic first aid items and emergency inclement weather gear -- fleece blanket, rain poncho, umbrella, and more. If guests have particular items necessary for personal comfort, the park recommends bringing them with you. Here's a list of items the park suggests bringing with you:

• Water (more than you think you need)
• Any required medications and medical supplies
• Additional clothing layers
• Seat cushion
• Hat or visor
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Snacks
• Camera

Any additional information about the Track Chair Program can be found on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website or in their brochure. You can also donate to the Friends of Staunton Park to help continue to fund more track chairs so everyone can enjoy the beauty of Colorado. Have you been to Staunton State Park? Share your experiences with us by commenting below. All images courtesy of Staunton State Park - Colorado Parks and Wildlife (Facebook).

Learn more about Staunton State Park by clicking here!