Accessible Guided Walk at Hellcat Interpretive Trail

Explore, Connect, and Unwind at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Join Ample Access Outdoors for a guided walk along the Hellcat Interpretive Trail, a fully accessible boardwalk weaving through wetlands, forests, and dunes. This experience invites you to pause, observe, and connect—whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or just beginning to explore the outdoors. Along the way, enjoy interpretation stops that highlight the refuge’s unique ecosystem, history, and wildlife, with a chance to spot the federally threatened piping plover. Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars! This event is designed to ensure that all bodies and experience levels feel welcome in this supportive, community-centered outing.

EVENT DETAILS

📅 Date: Saturday, March 29th
⏰ Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Hellcat Interpretive Trail at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
🚗 Directions: Unnamed Road, Rowley, MA 01969. 🔗 Google Maps Link
🗺️ Meeting Spot: Meet at the trailhead at Parking Lot #4 at 10:15 AM. If you have trouble locating the group, please get in touch with the group leader, Brittany Francis, at 781-204-0408.
🅿️ Parking: Parking Lot #4 is paved with three designated accessible parking spaces. There are two additional accessible parking spaces where the trail crosses the paved road.
💰 Parking Cost: Parking is cash only and costs $5.00 per motor vehicle.
👥 Group Size: 15 participants
🎟 Registration Required: Register through Eventbrite to attend.

MEET YOUR GROUP LEADER

Brittany Francis (she/her) – Your Outdoor Bestie!

Brittany is passionate about making outdoor spaces inclusive and accessible. As a special education teacher and founder of Ample Access Outdoors, she is dedicated to ensuring that people of all abilities and backgrounds feel welcome in nature. Brittany fosters an environment where the outdoors belongs to everyone and loves creating adaptable, community-driven outdoor experiences.

📧 Email: brittany@ampleaccessoutdoors.com
📞 Phone: 781-204-0408

TRAIL + ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION

🌳 Trail Distance: 1.3-mile loop
🛤️ Terrain: The composite lumbar boardwalk is suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The trail is mostly flat or gently sloping.
📏 Dimensions: The trail is a minimum of 5 feet wide. Most of the boardwalk has a 7-inch curb with occasional stretches of higher railings. Viewing platforms also have railings approximately 3.5 feet high.
🔭 Viewing Platforms: There are three short spurs that branch off from the main boardwalk and lead to viewing platforms. One platform is surrounded by dense vegetation on the edge of the North Pool, one overlooks the North Pool, and one overlooks an expanse of sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.
🪑 Benches: There are three benches: one at the North Pool overlook, one at the dunes overlook, and one along a forested boardwalk section.
🚻 Restrooms: Two large individual restrooms are located next to the main parking lot. No steps are required to access the restrooms. Handrails are present on the back and side of the composting toilets. Access to the restroom requires the operation of an unpowered door with a turn handle.
🚶‍♂️ Pacing: We will move at a steady and supportive pace. We take the pace of the slowest person - no one is ever left behind. We will take breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery.
🔊 Noise Considerations: Some background noise from wind, water, and occasional visitor traffic.
🐕 Pets: No dogs are permitted on the trail.
❤️ COVID-19 Safety: Face coverings are optional for all visitors and staff, consistent with city and state guidelines.
💬 Do you need any accommodations to participate? Please e-mail Brittany Francis at brittany@ampleaccessoutdoors.com.

INCLUSIVITY STATEMENT

​​We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for everyone. We honor and respect all intersectional identities, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, body size, ability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. We actively stand against racism, discrimination, and all forms of oppression. Our programming is grounded in universal design principles and the belief that the outdoors belongs to everyone. Together, we will foster a supportive community where all voices are valued, and everyone feels empowered to connect with nature on their own terms. You are welcome here, just as you are.

ABOUT AMPLE ACCESS OUTDOORS

We are an outdoor recreation organization dedicated to making nature accessible and enjoyable for individuals living in marginalized bodies. We aim to break down societal barriers and foster a love of nature within a diverse community, focusing on inclusivity, adaptability, and safety. We offer guided recreation activities, online and hybrid courses, and customized curricula that prioritize accessibility for all.

Our paid programming helps fund our free accessibility programs that support individuals with a variety of access needs. We are committed to expanding outdoor access through programming that provides essential support, adaptive equipment, and financial assistance for those who need it. Check out our programs and services to learn more!

📲 CONNECT WITH US
🔗 Eventbrite: Ample Access Outdoors
🌎 Website: ampleaccessoutdoors.com
📸 Instagram: @ampleaccessoutdoors
📘 Facebook: Ample Access Outdoors