Breaking barriers: adaptive programs in the Smokies

Hikers Carly Pearson and Cecil Williams with Park Ranger Katie Corrigan along Hazel Creek Trail.

Catalyst Sports

In a collaboration with Knox County, Catalyst Sports, and Friends of the Smokies, the National Park Service is making Great Smoky Mountains National Park more accessible for visitors of all abilities. Through innovative adaptive programs, the Smokies are becoming a place where everyone can forge a deeper connection with the outdoors.

These programs are more than outdoor excursions; they’re immersive experiences that connect people to places beyond the pavement—areas that were once less accessible in the park. Participants explore the park’s rugged terrain using GRIT Freedom Chairs (off-road wheelchairs), adaptive mountain bikes, and kayaks. Along the way, Park Ranger Katie Corrigan, who is leading this effort, presents programs and coordinates a team of staff and volunteers who enrich the experience by sharing stories of the park’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Adaptive kayaker, Paul Angevine, paddles Fontana Lake with his family.

NPS

The park’s first adaptive programs launched in July 2023 with three hikes and a mountain bike ride and received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. Since then, the programs have continued to include overnight backpacking trips and adaptive kayaking excursions, offering new and immersive outdoor experiences. Some of these adventures were historic firsts for the park: kayaking on Fontana Reservoir, backpacking along Abrams Creek, and boating to hike the remote Hazel Creek Trail marked new chapters in accessible park programming. These weren’t just accessible experiences; they were unforgettable ones that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise for wheelchair users.

Participants came from far and wide, with some visitors traveling across multiple states. Visitors traveled from as far as Florida, Pennsylvania, and Arizona to participate in the program or experience the trails using an adaptive chair. Many stayed overnight in nearby communities, supporting local businesses and embracing the full Smokies experience.

Of course, nature keeps things interesting. During the Abrams Creek backpacking trip, a water crossing added a splash of adventure. With teamwork, laughter, and a little grit, everyone made it through and celebrated with well-earned s’mores around the campfire.

Hikers and volunteers work together to navigate a stream crossing along Cooper Road Trail, assisting an adaptive hiker using a GRIT Freedom off-road wheelchair.

Friends of the Smokies

A key partner in this effort is Catalyst Sports, a nonprofit dedicated to providing outdoor adventures for people with physical disabilities. “These programs connect individuals with nature, promoting environmental awareness and stewardship,” said Eric Gray, CEO of Catalyst Sports. “Expanding offerings and experiences will enhance inclusion for all.”

Catalyst’s mission is rooted in the belief that adventure sports challenge us in powerful ways—mentally, physically, and emotionally. When those challenges are met within a supportive community, people discover their strength, their resilience, and the joy of living active, connected lives.

With one in four Americans living with a disability, these programs are more than just recreational; they’re transformative. “Adaptive wheelchairs and programs like these move people beyond the pavement to explore areas that wouldn’t be possible to access without these valuable mobility devices,” said Carly Pearson, ADA Coordinator for Knox County.

Since 2023, and continuing through the years, these programs have been made possible thanks to the ongoing generosity of donors and grantors including Friends of the Smokies, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), Toyota Motor North America, and the Kampgrounds of America Foundation.

Participants and volunteers on an adaptive hike on Middle Prong Trail.

NPS

In addition to funding and equipment support, these valuable programs wouldn’t be possible without volunteers who assist visitors with their adaptive equipment. Volunteers are an essential part of these programs, providing both practical support and a reassuring presence. Their contributions help ensure participant safety and comfort—whether it's assisting with rugged terrain like water crossings and steep trail sections or addressing equipment issues such as inflating tires or ensuring functioning wheelchairs. Beyond the trail, volunteers also help with behind-the-scenes logistics that keep the programs running smoothly. Each spring, the park offers Accessibility & Adaptive Equipment Training. Check the park’s social media or online calendar to learn how you can get involved.

Visitors can also check out an adaptive wheelchair at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on a first-come, first-serve basis year-round or make a reservation to reserve a chair in advance from May-October each year, to explore several accessible trails with their family and friends or a park volunteer.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and park partners look forward to sustaining access to outdoor recreation, trails, and programs. See you on the trail!