DEEP Now Accepting All-Terrain Wheelchair Reservations for Seasonal Use Starting on June 6

2026 Season to Feature Expanded Access with Enhanced Trails and Improved Reservation Process

(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is making improvements to its all-terrain wheelchair program, which is available in seven Connecticut State Park and Forest locations. Improvements include enhanced access, new trails added, barrier removals, as well as a streamlined reservation process.

DEEP’s All-Terrain Wheelchair Program, launched in the fall of 2024, with funding support from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), now offers 14 all-terrain wheelchairs, available free of charge to visitors. Visitors looking to utilize an all-terrain wheelchair must first watch a short safety video demonstration, make a reservation in advance of their visit, and complete a waiver prior to use. During the 2025 season, more than 75 reservations were made by visitors. Feedback from those who utilized the all-terrain wheelchairs was used to make improvements to the reservation process, signage, and trails.

A grant awarded by the Bronco Wild Fund provided financial support for DEEP to improve access to trails over the past year. The fund’s generous support allowed State Parks Division staff to remove gated barriers and replace them with removable bollards as well as to widen and improve trails with uneven surfaces. With these improvements, more trails have been designated as all-terrain wheelchair accessible for the upcoming season.

“We’re looking forward to our second full season of our All-Terrain Wheelchair Program, which makes our State Parks more accessible for Connecticut residents,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “Thanks to generous support from the Bronco Wild Fund, and feedback from users of the all-terrain wheelchairs last year, we’ve made improvements that will make the program even more accessible and impactful. We’re excited to help more visitors enjoy our parks safely and have fun in the outdoors this summer!”

The all-terrain wheelchairs provide a sometimes-rare opportunity for those with mobility challenges to enjoy the outdoors. After their visit in 2025, one grateful all-terrain wheelchair user commented, "For the first time in years, I was able to explore trails, get deep into nature, and take in views I thought I'd never see again. The freedom these chairs offer is incredible. I felt safe and connected to the outdoors in a way I've truly missed."

All-Terrain Wheelchairs will be available beginning Saturday, June 6^th, 2026, coinciding with Connecticut Trails Day, the first weekend in June. This late spring start provides ample time for our trails to dry after a snowy and wet winter and early spring, so that they aren’t damaged by equipment during use. The All-Terrain Wheelchairs will be available for use into the fall. Reservations must be made through Reserve America at least two days in advance of a visit and a maximum of 30 days in advance, so our reservation system will open for the season on May 6^th, 2026. Upon arrival for reservations, users must provide a valid state photo ID and sign a waiver. All-Terrain Wheelchairs are available in the following locations:

For full details as well as links to the training videos, please visit ctparks.com/all-terrain-wheelchairs. If visitors need assistance navigating the website, please contact the State Parks Division at DEEP.stateparks@ct.gov or 860-424-3200.

ATW Track Chair - Users will need to reserve an all-terrain chair, watch an instructional video, and sign a waiver.

Users will need to reserve an all-terrain chair, watch an instructional video, and sign a waiver.

ATW Trail Work, Signage Based on feedback from all-terrain wheelchair users, DEEP has improved trail accessibility and signage, with help from the Bronco Wild Fund

Signage based on feedback from all-terrain wheelchair users, DEEP has improved trail accessibility and signage, with help from the Bronco Wild Fund.

ATW user on boardwalk - DEEP all-terrain wheelchair reservations open May 6, chairs available starting June 6th.

DEEP all-terrain wheelchair reservations open May 6, chairs available starting June 6th.

Photos courtesy: CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

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Contact

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DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110

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