On Wednesday, August 23, the National Park Service announced that they will be launching an adaptive rock climbing pilot program in Tennessee’s Obed Wild and Scenic River. The goal of this program is to increase accessibility in the recreation area for visitors with mobility issues.
The program is set to begin on October 28, 2023, and is looking for 10 participants. The program is directed toward those with limb differences and amputations. In recent years, adaptive climbing has become very popular at climbing gyms. Obed Wild and Scenic River received a grant from the National Park Foundation, allowing them to create accessible climbing opportunities in their park.
The inclusion of adaptive rock climbing at this national park unit was created in part with the ParkVentures Program. The program will provide specialized, adaptive climbing equipment, as well as trained facilitators to aid in the climbing activities of those with different levels of ability.
Obed Wild and Scenic River has conducted “Climb with a Ranger” programs for over 11 years, and now they are providing that same opportunity for those with disabilities. Anyone interested in taking part in the pilot program can call the Obed Wild and Scenic River Visitor’s Center at 423-346-6294.
