Providing Accessible Recreation Outdoors-User-Driven Research on Standards (PARCOURS): Protocol for a Multiphase...

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Public health
• Recreation management

Background:

• Canada's national parks are globally recognized but often inaccessible to individuals with disabilities.
• Legislation is driving the development of new park design and management standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform federal park accessibility standards for all visitors.
• Identify international standards, challenges faced by disabled visitors, and recommend specific standards for national parks.

Main Methods:

• A three-phase approach including a scoping review of existing standards.
• Objective audits of park trails and features in six parks across Canada.
• Mobile interviews with 48 participants and a Delphi consensus process to prioritize recommendations.

Main Results:

• Anticipated identification of gaps in current accessibility standards for diverse needs.
• Existing standards may be insufficient for ensuring equitable access to all park amenities and experiences.
• Potential need for supplementary guidelines and best practices for complex accessibility scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Participatory and mixed-methods approaches will yield insights for inclusive park standards.
• Findings will support the development and enhancement of park accessibility standards across all government levels.