Adventure-seeking crew facilitates thrilling off-road experiences for individuals confined to wheelchairs
In the picturesque Hudson Valley of New York, a non-profit organization named SOAR (Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) is making a significant impact, providing adaptive hiking and off-road driving opportunities for individuals with physical impairments.
Based in a woodsy lodge spanning approximately 70 acres, SOAR offers a range of outdoor activities that cater to those with ambulation impairments. One such activity is their public adventure hikes, which take place at various locations throughout the Hudson Valley, including Mohonk Preserve near New Paltz.
During these hikes, participants make use of specialised equipment like Action Trackchairs, electric off-road chairs that allow access to rugged trails that are otherwise inaccessible for standard wheelchairs. These hikes enjoy strong community support, with volunteers on hand to assist participants.
An XJ Jeep Cherokee, equipped with good tires, a mild lift, and hand controls, is another vehicle used by SOAR for driving without the use of feet. This vehicle, along with other three-vehicle convoys, took on the driving obstacles at NORA (Northeast Off-Road Adventures), an off-road driving facility in Ulster County, NY, run by SOAR. The group had a fun time teasing each other over the radio as they navigated the challenges.
Rob, one of the participants, was able to easily manage the controls of the hand-control Jeep. Action Trackchairs, operated by a joystick and featuring a seat that can be tilted and raised to compensate for steep grades, can reach speeds of up to 6 mph. Everybody driving the Trackchairs was appreciative of the opportunity to get together and get outside.
In addition to their hiking and off-road driving activities, SOAR also runs an off-road driving school and a dealership for heavy-duty wheelchairs on tank treads. They have been growing and have been working with Burke, an NY-based physical rehabilitation company.
For those interested in adaptive hiking or off-road access in the Hudson Valley, key organisations and locations to explore include SOAR, Mohonk Preserve, and Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, all of which offer Trackchair-enabled programs. There is no charge to borrow an Action Trackchair if you sign up to join an adaptive hike ahead of time.
However, traditional off-road vehicles like jeeps are generally not permitted in preserves like Mohonk. But electric off-road adaptive chairs like Action Trackchairs are allowed, making it possible for more inclusive outdoor adventures in hiking areas that would otherwise be inaccessible due to physical barriers.
- Science and health-and-wellness intersect through organizations like SOAR (Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation), which utilizes specialized equipment like Action Trackchairs for adaptive hiking, promoting the well-being and inclusion of individuals with physical impairments.
- Lifestyle choices often involve travel and adventure, and for those with a zest for exploration, the Hudson Valley offers a unique blend of adventure-travel experiences, such as off-road driving with vehicles equipped for speed and accessibility, like the hand-control Jeep and Action Trackchairs.
- Enthusiasts of sports might find their passion extended to lifestyle pursuits, as shown by Rob's proficiency in handling the hand-control Jeep and his enjoyment of adaptive hiking with SOAR in the Hudson Valley, where sportsMeet adventure and nature in various outdoor activities.
