Burbank is taking outdoor adventure to a whole new level and making sure more people can experience it.
The city has officially launched a first-of-its-kind mountain trail accessibility program in Southern California, giving visitors with mobility challenges the chance to explore scenic hiking trails using specialized all-terrain wheelchairs. It’s a huge step forward for inclusive outdoor recreation in SoCal.
A New Way To Experience Burbank’s Trails
The program is based at Stough Canyon Nature Center, where visitors can now reserve one of two advanced all-terrain wheelchairs designed to handle rugged terrain and fire roads.
Unlike standard mobility devices, these chairs are built to roll over dirt trails, slopes, and uneven landscapes. They open the door for visitors to enjoy natural spaces that have traditionally been difficult or impossible to access.
Each chair costs around $20,000 and was funded through community fundraising efforts led by Leadership Burbank.
Why This Program Is A Big Deal
While Southern California already offers accessible beach programs, Burbank’s initiative is the first program in the region specifically designed for mountain hiking trails.
City officials say the program is part of a larger push to expand adaptive recreation opportunities. Over the last few years, Burbank has rolled out several inclusive sports programs, including:
- Wheelchair rugby
- Adaptive youth baseball and basketball
- Powerchair soccer
- Boccia
- Adaptive fencing
- Annual Adaptive Sports Expo events
The new hiking program builds on that momentum by focusing on outdoor nature access — something advocates say can be life-changing.
How The Adaptive Hiking Experience Works
The trail program is open to anyone with mobility challenges, not just Burbank residents. Visitors can reserve the wheelchairs online through the city’s parks and recreation website. Before heading out on the trail, participants complete a short safety orientation and test drive.
Each hike includes:
- A required companion to assist the user
- A trained docent or volunteer who joins the hike
- Educational nature guidance during the experience
- Remote control capability for users who need assistance operating the chair
Currently, reservations allow for two-hour trail sessions, though the city says it may expand availability based on community feedback.
Making The Outdoors More Accessible
Programs like this address a major need. Mobility disabilities are among the most common disabilities in Los Angeles County, and they affect hundreds of thousands of residents.
All-terrain wheelchairs can dramatically expand outdoor access, but their high price and heavy weight make personal ownership unrealistic for most people. Public programs like Burbank’s help bridge that gap by offering shared access to the equipment.
The Bigger Social Impact
Advocates say access to outdoor spaces isn’t just about recreation. Accessibility can play a huge role in physical and mental well-being, social connection, and overall quality of life.
Burbank hopes the initiative inspires other cities across Southern California to invest in similar accessibility programs and create more inclusive outdoor spaces.
How To Try The Program
Reservations are available through Burbank Parks & Recreation online rentals here.