KENT, Conn.—Registration is now open for two mobility-friendly birding hikes at Kent Land Trust’s Skiff Mountain South Preserve, co-hosted by SOAR Experiences and Kent Parks and Recreation.
“At Kent Land Trust, we believe nature should be accessible to everyone,” said Melissa Roth-Cherniske, program manager at Kent Land Trust. “This partnership with SOAR Experiences and Kent Parks and Recreation opens Skiff Mountain to more members of our community and highlights the incredible birds and wildlife that depend on this protected landscape.”
These inclusive outdoor experiences will offer participants with mobility challenges the opportunity to explore Skiff Mountain’s trails, a known hot spot for Cerulean Warblers and other species of interest, and to enjoy spring birdlife with expert guides, family members and volunteers.
Two guided adaptive hikes will take place on Tuesday, May 5, with a rain date of Wednesday, May 6, and will be offered in morning and afternoon sessions. The hikers will use Action Trackchairs—off-road wheelchairs designed to navigate natural terrain—allowing participants to access trails that are typically difficult to traverse.
“Meeting Scott and Alex from SOAR Experiences out on the trail and seeing the mobility chair in action really changed how I think about accessibility in outdoor spaces,” said Matt Frasher of Kent Parks and Recreation. “It was incredible to see what’s possible and it made me realize how many more people we can welcome into nature when we’re intentional about inclusive design and partnerships like this.”
This experience will feature a birding component led by Laurie Doss of Marvelwood School, her ornithology students and Avian Ambassadors community service program, who will share insights about migratory and resident birds found in Skiff Mountain’s diverse upland forest habitat.
“Birding is a powerful way to connect people to nature, and I’m excited to help make this experience accessible to everyone,” said Doss. “When we open the outdoors to more people, we open the door to curiosity, learning, and stewardship.”
Participation is limited and advance registration is required. Interested participants must submit an online registration request through SOAR Experiences. SOAR Experiences will confirm participation based on equipment availability and individual support needs to ensure a safe and meaningful experience for all.
Click here for more information and to register.
