I am evangelistic about getting people outdoors. I truly believe that outdoor activities can be life changing. This is true more than ever for people struggling with physical and emotional challenges.
On my recent radio show Robert Lewis from Staunton State Park joined me to discuss programs they offer to allow visitors with physical or emotional challenges to enjoy the park. The park is located approximately 40 miles southwest of downtown Denver, north of US Highway 285 and about six miles west of Conifer.
In addition to over 30 miles of trails, Staunton has two sets of ponds. One is about a half mile hike in and is heavily stocked with rainbow trout, including some larger fish. Lewis said itap rare for him to walk the shore and encounter an angler who isn’t catching fish. There is also a pond that is about a four mile hike in. This pond has a self-sustaining brook trout population which provides prolific action. The folks at Staunton recently added a 20 X 12 foot ADA access fishing pier to the ponds closest to the trailhead.
They didn’t stop there. They partnered with Craig hospital to provide special fishing rods. One rod is set up to accommodate people with dexterity problems. The other has an electric motor on the reel to allow fishing with one hand. The highlight of what Staunton is doing is its track chair program. Track chairs are wheel chairs on tank-like tracks that allow mobility challenged people to enjoy the trails and be able to fish. This special equipment is available by reservation and at no charge other than a park pass. For safety, a volunteer accompanies the guest who uses the track chair and can also serve as a guide. The park is looking for additional volunteers. What a great way to share the outdoors and give back at the same time.
If you have a friend or family member who would benefit from some time outdoors, Staunton State Park is a great destination. The beauty alone is enough to help anyone escape from life’s challenges.
For more information on the Staunton State Park track chair program
http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/staunton/pages/track-chair-program.aspx
To hear my entire interview with Robert Lewis click on
https://soundcloud.com/1043thefan/robert-lewis-terry-wickstrom-outdoors-5518
Programing note: We will be broadcasting live Saturday from the Adventure Camper’s Open House at 14051 E Davies Ave, Centennial, CO. Follow Terry on Facebook at Terry Wickstrom Outdoors
Join Terry every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. for all your outdoor information on Terry Wickstrom Outdoors FM 1043 The Fan.
