For wheelchair users like Mrs Chu and her husband*, a weekend hike in Hong Kong’s beautiful countryside once felt completely out of reach. Without accessible trails and facilities, exploring nature was a massive physical struggle, a beginner-level hike ended up taking them eight times longer than the average walker.
The couple joined outdoor workshops and guided tours in the “Enhancing Wellness of the Disabled and Elderly communities through Nature and Technology” programme led by local NGO Parks and Trails. Together, they successfully completed routes at Tai Tam Reservoir, Hong Kong Wetland Park and Long Valley. By using the NGO’s “Accessible Trails Guidebook”, which details 20 local routes, they have since gained the skills needed to navigate the outdoors with confidence.
“Hearing the water flowing, smelling the greenery and hugging the trees, it’s just wonderful. I am so delighted that we can explore more trails with family and friends,” she said.
Read more about the project here. Follow their Instagram @parksandtrailshk to stay updated.
*Full details of the interviewee have been withheld for privacy and consent reasons.
