The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and guarantees equal opportunity in employment, government services, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications. The ADA requires state and local governments and businesses to allow people with mobility disabilities to use wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids in all public areas.
An “ADA-compliant” walking trail is an outdoor pedestrian route that is firm, stable, at least about 36 inches wide, with slopes and cross‑slopes, passing spaces, and other features designed so people with mobility disabilities can travel it safely and independently to the extent practicable given the natural terrain.
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The ADA recognizes that trails with steep terrain or other obstacles cannot be made ADA-compliant. A “generally accessible” walking trail is one that is relatively flat, has a firm, level footbed, is mostly free of tripping hazards, and ais wide enough to accommodate many mobility devices.
