Action Trackchair Provides More Mobility on Trails

DULUTH, Minn. — Hartley Nature Center just got a lot more accessible for people who have mobility issues.

Hartley Nature Center is now home to an Action Trackchair. The chair will be available to check out at Hartley Nature Center, and can be taken to other Duluth parks if requested through the Duluth Parks and Recreation website.

The chair was purchased by the Duluth Parks and Recreation team through a $14,280 grant. The chair is able to traverse grass, dirt and sand. Providing further outdoor recreation access to those who need mobility or special needs services.

“The track chair is very easy to figure out, especially if you have operated a power wheelchair before. It is quick, and it can keep up with a comfortable three mile an hour pace. It turns on a dime,” said Allison Brooks, Project Coordinator, Duluth Parks and Recreation. “When folks come out to rent it, we have a booklet with the maps and the different trails that you can take it on, trails that are wide enough have the right surface for it to traverse, and then also any kind of tips and tricks for how to operate it.”

The chair has joystick controls on both of arms and can also be guided by someone else. The chair can also be brought out to any of the Duluth parks, for any events that might be more difficult for people to get out to.

“Hartley Nature Center and our recreation programming in particular, we’re really excited about breaking down barriers to participation, and this helps us do that,” said Matt Willey, Hartley Nature Center Stewardship & Recreation Program Manager. “As you can see, it’s a fairly wide vehicle, so the trails need to be wide enough, and they can’t be too difficult where there could be a potential risk for falling over, falling out of the chair.”

Hartley Nature Center staff says the chair can be reserved in advance on The Duluth Parks and Recreation website.