Description
Book SynopsisPart narrative, part guidebook, this book follows the author and his wheelchair-bound daughter as they complete a range of hikes in all 50 states, validating that anyone can experience the natural landscapes the United States has to offer, even if pushing a mobility chair or stroller.
When Kellisa Kain was born premature with significant developmental and physical disabilities, she wasn’t expected to survive her first 24 hours. She defied the odds, and 20 years later she and her father, Christopher Kain, have pushiked using a specialized mobility chair in all 50 states. Now Chris wants to inspire other families, whether with children in strollers or in mobility chairs, to get outside and experience the country’s natural landscapes.
Rugged Access for All: A Guide for Pushiking America’s Diverse Trails with Mobility Chairs and Strollers showcases some of the greatest trails across the US that can be completed while pushiking—hiking with someone in a wheelchair, mobility chair, or stroller. Part narrative, part guide, this book chronicles their hikes in all 50 states. It includes detailed trail descriptions, full-color trail maps, and vibrant stories from Chris and Kellisa’s own experiences. Trails vary in difficulty, from deserts to mountains and everything in between.
Sometimes even a stroll around the block can have frustrating barriers to those with wheels, and this can lead to families staying inside too often. Rugged Access for All gives families the knowledge, confidence, and direction to travel and experience the wonders of nature, no matter what mobility challenges they may face.
Trade ReviewI have met a handful of people in life who inspire everyone they come into contact with. These people have one thing in common—they are always kind, happy and smiling. They do things that others only dream of, and of course make it look effortless. Christopher Kain is one of those people. This book gives you permission to push your boundaries, and experience life to the fullest no matter your abilities.
-- Karen Kain, author & activist for families living a unique life experience
Chris and Kellisa are two of my heroes—and some of the best hikers I know. The trail doesn't care how far or how fast you go. Hiking is all about getting out there, making the most of the experience, and taking all the lessons, memories, and friendships back home. In Rugged Access for All, Chris and Kellisa prove that the trail is there for everyone at every phase of life. Hike on!
-- Jennifer Pharr Davis, author, speaker, record setting hiker
A must-read for park rangers and trail designers to understand the challenges of those who must use wheels to access trails and to learn how to provide information and encouragement for all.
-- Kay Tasso, PT, PhD, board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy
Part guidebook, part chicken soup for the soul. Adventurous, heartwarming, and informative. If this book doesn't make you want to go explore the outdoors, nothing will.
-- Ian Mackay, executive director of Ian's Ride
Gain a whole new view into the wonders of nature through the eyes of Kellisa and Christopher Kain, an intrepid father-daughter hiking team who tackled all 50 states—twice—by ‘pushiking’ with a mobility chair. The Kains’ uncertainties and delights, from predictable struggles with signage and parking to dealing with snakes, deep sand and people’s varying attitudes, enable the reader to be surprised alongside them. From prudent notes on trail sections to packing tips for a person with extra needs, readers will find what they need to do the same. But it’s Christopher’s offhand lines about tube-feeding a daughter in a dark tent, tethering himself to her stroller to keep them attached in case of a fall, and treating her seizures beside a road before a dinner for two that add depth and sparkle to this guide. He says Kellisa’s social skills and language benefit from hiking, and it’s easy to see why as we follow their stimulating paths. Rugged Access for All is useful and inspirational for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.
-- Christina Adams, speaker, autism expert, and author of A Real Boy: A True Story of Autism, Early Intervention and Recovery
I have been following and admiring Chris on social media for several years. Chris’s drive to enrich Kellisa's life through pushiking will inspire you to persevere through life’s challenges. This book will encourage you to explore and appreciate the breathtaking natural beauty our country offers, while forging a lifelong bond with your loved ones. It also includes lots of practical advice and recommended trails for would-be pushikers.
-- Terri Weeks, owner of Big Rock Travel and author of Adventures around Cincinnati
Table of ContentsForeword Patrick Gray and Justin Skeesuck
Introduction
About This Book
Essential Gear for Pushiking
Trails Overview
Chapter 1: Alabama
Chapter 2: Alaska
Chapter 3: Arizona
Chapter 4: Arkansas
Chapter 5: Northern California
Chapter 6: Southern California
Chapter 7: Colorado
Chapter 8: Connecticut
Chapter 9: Delaware
Chapter 10: Florida
Chapter 11: Georgia
Chapter 12: Hawaii, Difficult
Chapter 13: Hawaii, Easy
Chapter 14: Idaho
Chapter 15: Illinois
Chapter 16: Indiana
Chapter 17: Iowa
Chapter 18: Kansas
Chapter 19: Kentucky
Chapter 20: Louisiana
Chapter 21: Maine
Chapter 22: Maryland
Chapter 23: Massachusetts
Chapter 24: Michigan, Lower Peninsula
Chapter 25: Michigan, Upper Peninsula
Chapter 26: Minnesota
Chapter 27: Mississippi
Chapter 28: Missouri
Chapter 29: Montana
Chapter 30: Nebraska
Chapter 31: Nevada
Chapter 32: New Hampshire
Chapter 33: New Jersey
Chapter 34: New Mexico
Chapter 35: New York
Chapter 36: North Carolina
Chapter 37: North Dakota
Chapter 38: Ohio
Chapter 39: Oklahoma
Chapter 40: Oregon
Chapter 41: Pennsylvania
Chapter 42: Rhode Island
Chapter 43: South Carolina
Chapter 44: South Dakota
Chapter 45: Tennessee
Chapter 46: Texas
Chapter 47: Utah
Chapter 48: Vermont
Chapter 49: Virginia
Chapter 50: Washington
Chapter 51: West Virginia
Chapter 52: Wisconsin
Chapter 53: Wyoming
Chapter 54: Washington, DC
Appendix: Trail Websites
Index
About the Author
