Charged for Change: Expanding Accessibility Across the Park
This spring brought both inspiration and momentum for our accessibility program. What we shared and invested in is shaping new ways for visitors to explore the park.
In March, the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes joined leaders from across the country at the AgrAbility National Conference in Traverse City. With chapters in nearly every state, AgrAbility brings together innovators, advocates, and others passionate about accessibility to share ideas and expand what’s possible in agriculture for people with disabilities.
During the conference, we hosted a field experience at the Dune Climb, where 15 participants explored the area with the track chair. For many, it was their first time experiencing such terrain. One participant, who had lost a foot in an accident, shared how excited she was to return this summer with her children—an impact that truly captures the heart of our mission.
Another highlight of the conference was the opportunity to share the story of how our track chair program began and what it’s been like to build and grow this initiative in partnership with the National Park. The presentation by Executive Director Laura Ann Johnson, Missy Knebel, Kathy Cole, Jeanne Esch, and Laurie Pope sparked meaningful conversations and inspired attendees from across the country to consider launching similar programs in their own communities. That same spirit of innovation is driving exciting new improvements at Sleeping Bear Dunes—expanding where and how more people can experience the park.
This momentum comes at a perfect time with the addition of solar-powered charging for our track chairs. Previously, our three chairs—one at Platte River and two at the Bayview Trail—relied on fixed electrical outlets. This limited where they could be used, especially as conditions at Bayview have changed and the scenic overlook is no longer accessible.
Now, thanks to a partnership with a local solar installer and support from park staff, we’ve outfitted our trailer with flat-mounted solar panels and upgraded the batteries. The chairs have proven remarkably efficient, never dropping below 50% battery charge. Our new equipment charges two track chairs directly from the trailer, freeing us to bring them anywhere in the park—including the beautiful overlook at Alligator Hill, which had previously lacked power access.
This means more freedom, more flexibility, and more opportunities for visitors to experience the park! Our track chair program will run daily from May 22 through October 11 (with a pause on July 4). From senior programs to Diversity Day at Interlochen State Park, we’re excited to bring fully charged possibilities to even more people this season.
Are you interested in joining the Accessibility Team as a Volunteer? We would love to have you!
Please consider donating today to support this program and more like it. Projects like this can only happen because of our amazing donors.