Indiana State Parks just put some serious horsepower behind accessibility, rolling out a statewide fleet of electric all-terrain “track chairs” that let visitors with mobility challenges finally tackle roots, sand and rugged trails without needing a push. Park staff and advocates say the powered chairs are opening up beaches, overlooks and paths that were effectively off-limits before, a milestone step toward making more of the system’s outdoor features truly available to everyone.
The Department of Natural Resources wrapped up distribution after shipping the chairs in two waves: the first half went out last week and the second shipment arrived on Tuesday, according to WISH-TV. The outlet reports that the track chairs will be free to use on a first-come, first-served basis at every state park, and that ATZ Manufacturing estimates each unit could last around 20 years. Fort Harrison State Park hosted a ceremonial first ride to mark the rollout.
How The Track Chairs Work And Where They Will Be
The Indiana DNR says the program features several models, including Action Trackchair Axis units, Magic Mobility Extreme 4x4 chairs and beach-ready Extreme X8 vehicles, all selected for their ability to power over sand, roots and rough trail surfaces. Before heading out, users must sign a wheelchair user agreement, get a brief training from staff and follow park-specific weight limits and designated routes. Locations, hours and sign-out procedures will vary by property, so each park will spell out which model it offers and when it is available, according to Indiana DNR.
Who Picked Up The Tab
Lilly Endowment’s $50 million gift to Indiana State Parks included $1 million specifically set aside for motorized wheelchairs and beach chairs, funding the purchase of this new fleet, according to materials from Lilly Endowment. State procurement records show the DNR also listed a “DNR Track chair” purchase through the Indiana Department of Administration earlier in the process, reflecting the agency’s formal buying steps. The acquisition is part of a broader accessibility push that sits alongside upgrades to playgrounds, campgrounds and historic structures.
What Visitors And Advocates Are Saying
At Fort Harrison, Jeremy Warriner took the ceremonial first spin and told WISH-TV the track chairs are “absolutely opening up access and distance that I would not be able to do with my prosthetic legs or with my manual chair.” Brant Baughman pointed out a very practical win: a school group can now include a student who otherwise could not join the trail portion of the trip. DNR leaders have framed the investment as part of an effort to make Indiana a national leader on accessibility. For many users, staff and volunteers, the chairs are a rare chance to see more of Indiana’s parks on their own terms rather than watching from the parking lot.
What To Know Before You Go
The track chairs are free, but parks strongly recommend calling ahead to check availability and schedule a brief orientation with staff. Many properties may also ask for a major credit card or state ID to hold as security while the chair is signed out. For detailed information on which model is offered at each property, along with hours and sign-out procedures, visitors should review the trail-chair page or contact the park directly, according to Indiana DNR.
