Everyone Outdoors: 2023 Easier Trail Recommendations

This page primarily offers accessible trails designed for wheelchair use and also "easy hikes" that are unlikely to be accessible for most wheelchair users.

A Wheelchair Accessible Trail is usually up to 1 mile in length and generally conforms to accessibility guidelines. All Wheelchair Accessible Trails are also Easy Walks. They may be paved or unpaved.

An Easy Walk might be up to 2 miles in length on a generally firm surface and flat to moderate terrain. There may be a few steps up or down and/or short sections with surface irregularities.

An Easy Hike may be up to 3 miles or more in length with a bit more challenge than an Easy Walk or wheelchair accessible trail. It is likely to be a mostly obstacle-free trail on gentle to moderate terrain, with minimal sections that are rougher in surface or steeper in grade. There may be some steps, as well as sections with trail irregularities such as roots and rocks under 2" high and/or long gradual grades.

You can read more detail about each specific trail to determine if it is right for you in the posts listed below. Scroll to the bottom for Easy Hikes. Click on the Trail Name link to get more information.

This page continues to progress since the start of the pandemic. Sites are visited prior to posting to ensure the trail is ready to visit and is generally crowd-free. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon during weekdays to avoid busier times of use. If you don't see trails listed in your region yet, email marcy.marchello@mass.gov for recommendations. We can use your input on recommendations and conditions as well!

Trail listings with (*) indicate that it is best to avoid on weekends and also June through mid-August at these locations to avoid crowds.

Wheelchair Accessible Trails In Massachusetts - with less visitation than busier state parks, unless where indicated by (*).

*Indicates trail was developed in part with funding from the Recreation Trails Grant administered by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation

Connecticut River Valley