A Place for All

​Every person deserves meaningful access to nature—through every season of life and every season of the year. At Lacawac Sanctuary, we are committed to sustaining an accessible outdoor destination: a place for all abilities, all ages, and all people. A place for everyone.

Nature has the power to heal, inspire, and connect. Our goal is to ensure that everyone who visits Lacawac feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to experience the outdoors in ways that work for them.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
Nature is not one-size-fits-all. People experience the outdoors differently, and accessibility is essential to making those experiences possible. Lacawac Sanctuary is actively working to remove barriers and expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities to explore, learn, and thrive in nature.

Through thoughtful design, inclusive programming, adaptive equipment, and trained staff, we strive to create an environment where visitors of all abilities can engage with our trails, forests, and lake with confidence and comfort.
Accessibility at Lacawac is an ongoing and evolving effort. As we continue to improve our facilities and programs, we invite you to check back for updates on new features and opportunities.

Accessible Facilities and Education Center
Our Education Center is designed to be welcoming, comfortable, and accessible for all guests. Indoor exhibits provide interactive opportunities to learn more about the ecosystems, wildlife, and natural history you experience outdoors at Lacawac.

The Education Center includes accessible restrooms with wide entry doors, grab bars, accessible sinks, and ample space for maneuvering wheelchairs. 

Accessible parking, walkways, and an accessible center entrance make it possible for everyone to feel comfortable—not only visiting, but staying as long as they like.

Programs and Opportunities
  • Adaptive Outdoor Leadership
    Guided experiences and skill-building opportunities designed to support confidence, independence, and connection on the trails.
  • Accessible Education Programs
    Hands-on environmental and STEM learning experiences adapted to meet a wide range of abilities and learning styles.
  • Inclusive Public Programs
    Hikes, workshops, and citizen science programs that welcome individuals and families of all abilities.

Accessible Features and What We’re Building
We are continuously expanding and improving accessibility across the sanctuary so more visitors can enjoy Lacawac’s natural beauty. Current and future initiatives include:
  • Enhanced accessible trails and improved signage
  • Adaptive seating and gathering spaces
  • Expanded staff and volunteer training to better support visitors with disabilities
  • All-Terrain Mobility Options – All-terrain wheelchairs and mobility devices for children and adults, allowing access beyond paved paths
  • Braille Trail – A sensory-focused trail with tactile and interpretive features designed for visitors who are blind or have low vision

Why It Matters
Access to nature supports physical health, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging. For individuals with disabilities, inclusive outdoor spaces can reduce stress, build confidence, and strengthen community connections. By creating accessible pathways into nature, Lacawac helps ensure these benefits are shared by all.

Get Involved
You can help us make nature accessible for everyone:
  • Participate – Join a program or explore the sanctuary at your own pace
  • Volunteer – Support accessibility initiatives and adaptive programming
  • Give – Your support helps expand trails, adaptive equipment, and inclusive experiences
Together, we can ensure that the doors to nature remain open--
for every season, for every visitor, for everyone.