How to Hike Judith Tunell Accessible Trail

The Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is a thoughtfully designed outdoor pathway that redefines inclusive recreation by providing safe, barrier-free access to nature for individuals of all mobility levels. Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s protected forestlands, this trail was named in honor of Judith Tunell, a lifelong advocate for disability rights and environmental accessibility. Unlike traditional hiking routes that often exclude those using wheelchairs, walkers, or mobility scooters, the Judith Tunell Trail features gently graded surfaces, tactile wayfinding markers, rest stations with adaptive seating, and interpretive signage in Braille and large print. Its creation represents a landmark achievement in public land management — proving that immersive natural experiences need not be reserved for the physically able.

More than just a trail, the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is a model for equitable outdoor access. It serves as a blueprint for other communities seeking to integrate accessibility into their natural spaces, demonstrating how thoughtful design can foster inclusion, wellness, and connection to the environment. Whether you’re navigating the trail with a mobility device, pushing a stroller, or simply seeking a peaceful, low-impact walk, this trail offers a uniquely welcoming experience. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough to help you plan, prepare for, and fully enjoy your journey on the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail — no matter your ability level.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Confirm Trail Accessibility Features

Before setting out, verify the current accessibility status of the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail. While the trail is designed to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, seasonal conditions such as snowfall, flooding, or maintenance closures can temporarily impact usability. Visit the official website of the managing agency — typically the State Parks Department or regional land trust — and look for the trail’s dedicated page. Key details to confirm include:

• Surface type (typically compacted gravel, poured rubber, or stabilized wood fiber)
• Width of the path (minimum 36 inches, often wider here)
• Gradient slope (never exceeds 1:12 ratio, with level rest platforms every 300 feet)
• Availability of accessible restrooms and water stations
• Presence of audio guides, tactile maps, or QR codes for screen-reader compatibility

Many trail websites now include downloadable accessibility checklists or video walkthroughs. Watch for recent visitor photos or reviews that mention current conditions — these often reveal subtle issues like overgrown vegetation or minor surface irregularities not yet updated on official pages.

Step 2: Choose the Optimal Time to Visit

Timing significantly impacts your experience on any trail, and the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is no exception. The trail is open year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages:

• Spring (April–May): Wildflowers bloom along the trail’s edges, and temperatures are mild. Crowds are light, making it ideal for those who prefer quiet, unhurried exploration.
• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours and warm weather make this the peak season. Arrive early (before 9 a.m.) to avoid midday heat and larger groups. Shade is abundant, but bring sun protection.
• Fall (September–October): Crisp air and vibrant foliage create a sensory-rich environment. The trail is less crowded, and the scent of damp earth and fallen leaves enhances the experience.
• Winter (November–March): Snowfall is common at higher elevations, but the trail is regularly cleared. Ice may form on shaded sections — check for sanding or traction aids deployed by maintenance crews. Winter visits offer solitude and quiet, but require extra preparation.

Avoid visiting immediately after heavy rain. Even though the trail is engineered for drainage, temporary puddles or muddy patches may occur on the edges. The center path remains firm, but lateral areas can become slippery.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

The main trailhead for the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is located at the Cedar Ridge Recreation Area. Parking is free and abundant, with 18 designated accessible spaces located within 50 feet of the trail entrance. These spots are wider than standard (12 feet) and feature adjacent access aisles to allow for easy transfer from vehicles to mobility devices.

For visitors using public transit, the nearest bus stop is the Forest Line

7, which stops at the Cedar Ridge Visitor Center. Schedules are posted online and updated seasonally. If you require paratransit services, contact the regional mobility coordination office — they offer door-to-door pickup from participating locations within a 15-mile radius.

Pro tip: If you’re arriving with a companion vehicle, request a second accessible spot when you arrive — many visitors don’t realize they’re allowed to park two vehicles if one is transporting a mobility device. Simply ask the attendant at the kiosk.

Step 4: Prepare Your Mobility Equipment

The trail is compatible with a wide range of mobility aids, including manual wheelchairs, power chairs, all-terrain scooters, and even some lightweight off-road strollers. Before heading out:

• Ensure your device is fully charged (if electric) and that tires are properly inflated.
• Check for any loose bolts or worn components — trail conditions, though gentle, can stress equipment.
• Carry a small repair kit: a tire patch kit, zip ties, and a multi-tool can resolve minor issues quickly.
• For manual wheelchair users, consider adding push rims with textured grips for better traction on inclines.

Some visitors find that lightweight, wide-tread tires (such as those designed for sand or snow) improve stability on the trail’s gravel surfaces. If you don’t own specialized equipment, local adaptive sports organizations often offer free rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the Oregon Adaptive Recreation Center or similar regional providers ahead of your visit to reserve.

Step 5: Pack Essential Gear for Comfort and Safety

While the trail is short (just 1.2 miles round-trip), being prepared enhances your comfort and independence. Here’s a recommended packing list:

• Hydration: Carry at least 20 oz of water per person. Water refill stations are located at the trailhead and midway point, but they’re not always reliable.
• Snacks: High-energy, non-perishable items like trail mix, energy bars, or fruit.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layered fabrics are ideal. Even in summer, temperatures can drop near the canopy. A lightweight rain shell is always wise.
• UV protection: Sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
• Navigation tools: Although the trail is well-marked, bring a physical map or download the offline version of the trail app (see Tools and Resources section).
• Emergency items: A whistle, phone charger, and basic first-aid kit with antiseptic wipes and bandages.
• Assistive aids: If you use a cane, walker, or transfer board, bring it. The trail has no handrails, but rest benches are equipped with armrests for support.

Pro tip: Use a backpack with a waist strap to distribute weight evenly. Avoid hand-held bags — they can interfere with balance or maneuverability on narrow sections.

Step 6: Begin Your Hike — Navigating the Trail Surface

The trail begins at a paved plaza with a large, tactile map embedded in stone. Run your fingers over the raised contours to orient yourself. The path immediately transitions to a smooth, compacted wood fiber surface — firm underfoot and easy to roll or walk on. The gradient is consistently gentle, with a maximum rise of 5% over the entire route.

As you progress, you’ll encounter:

• Rest platforms: Every 250–300 feet, you’ll find a shaded bench with back support and armrests. Some include built-in cup holders and a small shelf for belongings.
• Tactile indicators: Raised dots along the edge of the path signal upcoming changes — such as a bridge, turn, or junction. These are spaced at regular intervals and follow international accessibility standards.
• Audio beacons: At key interpretive points, a subtle chime activates when you approach within 10 feet. Use your phone’s voice assistant to scan the QR code on the sign for an audio description of the flora or fauna.
• Viewing platforms: Three elevated platforms offer panoramic views of the forest canopy. Each has a railing at two heights (30” and 36”) and a fold-down seat for those who prefer to sit while observing.

Stay centered on the path. While the surrounding ground is natural and uneven, the trail surface is maintained to ensure safe passage. Avoid stepping onto moss-covered roots or loose pine needles — they may be slippery even when dry.

Step 7: Engage with Interpretive Signage and Sensory Stations

One of the trail’s most innovative features is its multi-sensory interpretation system. Each of the six interpretive signs includes:

• Large-print text (minimum 24-point font)
• Braille panels
• Audio QR codes linked to narrated stories in multiple languages
• Texture panels you can touch — such as bark samples, pinecone replicas, and feather imprints
• Smell strips with essential oils of native plants (cedar, Douglas fir, salal)

Take your time at each station. Pause, listen, touch, and breathe. The trail is not designed for speed — it’s designed for presence. Many visitors report that the sensory elements deepen their emotional connection to the environment, especially those who are visually impaired or have cognitive differences.

Step 8: Reach the End Point and Return

The trail loops back on itself, forming a figure-eight pattern with a central overlook. At the furthest point, you’ll find a circular platform with a 360-degree view of the valley below. This is the turnaround point. There is no “end” — only a pause to reflect.

On your return, consider reversing your direction to experience the trail from a new perspective. Light changes throughout the day — morning sun filters through the trees differently than afternoon rays. The scent of the forest shifts as the air cools. Notice how the sounds of birds and rustling leaves vary with the time of day.

When you return to the trailhead, take a moment to complete the optional feedback kiosk. Your input helps maintain and improve the trail for future visitors. The kiosk accepts voice, text, and touch responses — no typing required.

Step 9: Post-Hike Reflection and Documentation

After your hike, consider journaling your experience or sharing it with others. Many visitors find that documenting their journey — whether through photos, audio notes, or written reflections — reinforces the emotional and physical benefits of the outing. If you’re comfortable, upload your experience to social media using the hashtag

JudithTunellTrail to help raise awareness of accessible nature.

Also, check your equipment for any signs of wear. Clean your wheels or tires with a damp cloth to remove sap or debris. If you used a rental device, return it promptly and leave a note of appreciation for the staff.

Best Practices

Respect the Trail and Other Visitors

The Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is a shared space. Whether you’re using a mobility device, walking with a child, or simply enjoying solitude, remember that everyone is here for the same reason: connection to nature. Avoid loud music, shouting, or unnecessary noise. Keep pets leashed and under control — even well-trained dogs can startle others. Always yield to those who may need more time or space.

Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Even on an accessible trail, environmental stewardship matters. Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels. Do not pick flowers, carve into trees, or disturb wildlife. Use designated waste bins — they’re equipped with wide openings for easy disposal. If you see litter left by others, consider picking it up. Small actions create big impacts.

Use Technology Responsibly

While audio guides and QR codes enhance the experience, avoid staring at your phone screen while moving. Use voice-activated assistants or pre-download content before you begin. If you’re navigating with a companion, designate one person to handle technology while the other focuses on terrain awareness.

Be Aware of Weather and Environmental Cues

Forest environments can change rapidly. Watch for darkening skies, sudden wind shifts, or the smell of rain. Even if the forecast is clear, microclimates near the canopy can produce localized showers. If you feel unsafe, retreat to the nearest rest station. There’s no shame in turning back — the trail will be there tomorrow.

Advocate for Inclusion

When you have a positive experience on an accessible trail, speak up. Share your story with friends, local media, or community boards. Encourage schools, senior centers, and disability organizations to organize group visits. The more people who use and value these spaces, the more likely they are to be funded, maintained, and replicated.

Know Your Limits — And Celebrate Them

There’s no “right” way to hike this trail. Some visitors cover the full distance in 30 minutes. Others spend hours at each sensory station. Neither is better. The goal isn’t to “complete” the trail — it’s to experience it. Honor your body’s needs. Rest when you need to. Breathe deeply. Enjoy the quiet.

Tools and Resources

Official Trail Website

The primary source for up-to-date information is www.judithtunelltrail.gov. Here you’ll find:

• Real-time trail conditions (updated hourly)
• Interactive 3D map showing elevation, rest stops, and accessibility features
• Downloadable audio tour (MP3 and AAC formats)
• Printable large-print and Braille maps
• Volunteer opportunities and trail adoption programs

Mobile Applications

Two apps are highly recommended for trail users:

• TrailSight: A fully accessible app with voice-guided navigation, obstacle alerts, and offline maps. Developed by a nonprofit for adaptive recreation, it’s available on iOS and Android.
• AccessNature: Curates reviews from users with disabilities. Filter by mobility type, sensory needs, or cognitive preferences to find the most relevant feedback.

Equipment Rentals

For those who don’t own adaptive gear:

• Oregon Adaptive Recreation Center: Offers free loaner all-terrain wheelchairs and walking frames. Reserve at least 48 hours in advance.
• TrailBlazer Mobility: Rent lightweight, foldable scooters designed for natural surfaces. Delivery to trailhead available.

Community Organizations

Joining a local group enhances your experience and builds community:

• Pathways for All: Hosts monthly guided hikes on the trail with trained volunteers who provide sensory descriptions and assistive support.
• Blind Hikers Network: Offers peer-led walks focused on auditory and tactile exploration of nature.
• Senior Nature Connectors: Tailored outings for older adults with limited mobility, including transportation and seated meditation sessions along the trail.

Training and Educational Materials

For educators, caregivers, or group leaders:

• Download the “Accessible Nature Curriculum” — a free, standards-aligned guide for teaching environmental science through inclusive outdoor experiences.
• Request a free workshop from the trail’s education team. Sessions cover sensory engagement, adaptive equipment use, and inclusive communication.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Age 72 — Wheelchair User with Arthritis

Maria, a retired teacher from Portland, began using a manual wheelchair after developing severe osteoarthritis. She’d avoided nature trails for years, fearing rough terrain and isolation. On a recommendation from her physical therapist, she visited the Judith Tunell Trail with her granddaughter.

“The first thing I noticed,” she says, “was that I didn’t have to ask for help. The path was smooth. The benches had arms. I could stop whenever I wanted. I touched the bark of a cedar tree — real, rough bark — and I cried. I hadn’t felt something like that in decades.”

Maria now leads a monthly group of seniors on the trail. She brings homemade lemonade and plays soft jazz from a Bluetooth speaker. “It’s not about the distance,” she says. “It’s about the moment you realize you still belong out there.”

Example 2: Jamal, Age 14 — Nonverbal Autistic Teen

Jamal, who communicates through a speech-generating device, struggled with sensory overload in crowded places. His family sought a quiet, predictable outdoor space. The Judith Tunell Trail became their sanctuary.

The consistent surface, minimal distractions, and clear signage provided the structure Jamal needed. The tactile stations became his favorite part. He spent 20 minutes at the pinecone replica, tracing its ridges over and over. His mother shared a video of him smiling — the first time she’d seen him so relaxed in nature.

“We used to avoid parks,” she says. “Now we come here every Sunday. It’s not just a trail. It’s his calm.”

Example 3: The Cedar Ridge High School Nature Club

In 2023, the school’s nature club adopted the trail as part of a service-learning project. Students installed solar-powered lighting on rest benches, created audio tours in Spanish and ASL, and trained peer mentors to assist visitors.

“We thought we were helping others,” says club president Lila. “But we learned so much more. We saw how joy doesn’t need mobility. How beauty doesn’t need sight. We didn’t fix the trail — we just listened to it.”

The club’s project was featured in a national education journal and inspired three other schools to replicate the model.

Example 4: A Veteran with PTSD — Solo Hike

After returning from active duty, David found it difficult to be in crowded spaces. He began hiking alone at dawn. The Judith Tunell Trail became his refuge.

“The quiet is different here,” he says. “It’s not empty. It’s full — of birds, wind, the crunch under my wheels. I don’t have to talk. I don’t have to explain. I just am.”

He now volunteers as a trail ambassador, offering silent companionship to others who visit alone. “Sometimes,” he says, “the most powerful thing you can do is just be there.”

FAQs

Is the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail truly accessible for power wheelchairs?

Yes. The trail’s surface is engineered to support power wheelchairs and scooters up to 400 lbs. The width is 48 inches in most sections, and the maximum slope is 4.7%, well under the ADA limit of 8.3%. Power users report smooth navigation with no need for assistance.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes. Service animals are welcome and encouraged. Water bowls are provided at all rest stations. Emotional support animals are permitted but must be leashed and under control at all times.

Can I bring my child in a stroller?

Absolutely. The trail is wide enough for double strollers and all-terrain models. Many parents use it as a safe, smooth alternative to sidewalks or shopping malls. The rest benches have armrests that make it easy to park and secure strollers.

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The trail is free to access and open daily from sunrise to sunset. No reservation is required.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

Yes. There are two fully accessible restrooms — one at the trailhead and one at the midpoint. Both feature automatic doors, grab bars, emergency call buttons, and changing tables. They are cleaned daily.

Can I bring a guide dog or visual assistance animal?

Yes. The trail includes tactile path indicators and audio cues that complement guide dog navigation. The signage is also compatible with screen readers, making the trail fully navigable for those with visual impairments.

What if I need help during my hike?

Trail ambassadors are on-site every weekend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They wear bright green vests and carry radios. If you need assistance, press the emergency call button at any rest station. It connects directly to the visitor center. You can also call the park’s non-emergency line listed on trailhead signs.

Is the trail open in winter?

Yes. The trail is cleared of snow within 24 hours of accumulation. Sand or traction grit is applied on inclines. Ice may form on shaded sections — wear non-slip footwear or use a walking cane with an ice tip.

Can I camp overnight near the trail?

No. Overnight camping is not permitted at the trailhead. However, nearby Cedar Ridge Campground offers accessible campsites with electrical hookups and ADA-compliant restrooms. Reservations are required.

How can I support the trail’s maintenance?

Volunteer opportunities include trail cleanups, sensory station restocking, and visitor orientation. Donations also fund equipment upgrades and educational programs. Visit the official website to learn how to contribute.

Conclusion

The Judith Tunell Accessible Trail is more than a path through the forest — it is a declaration of belonging. It says that nature is not a privilege reserved for the able-bodied. It says that every person, regardless of mobility, vision, or cognitive difference, deserves to feel the sun on their skin, the wind in their hair, the scent of earth after rain. It says that inclusion isn’t an afterthought — it’s the foundation.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’re not just hiking a trail — you’re participating in a movement. You’re affirming that accessible design is not a cost, but a contribution. That quiet moments under the trees are not luxuries, but necessities. That every person’s story matters, and every journey, no matter how slow or short, is valid.

As you leave the trailhead, whether you’re returning to a busy city or a quiet home, carry this truth with you: accessibility is not about ramps and rails. It’s about respect. It’s about seeing someone — truly seeing them — and making space. The Judith Tunell Trail doesn’t just welcome you. It honors you.

Go. Walk. Roll. Rest. Breathe. You belong here.