Why We Exist:
Inclusive Outdoor Movement
"We believe that the wild should be a place of equality. Accessibility is more than just a ramp; it's the removal of limits on human spirit and exploration."
Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities, veterans, seniors and families by providing specialized adaptive equipment and guided wilderness experiences that break down physical barriers and foster a deep connection with nature.
Building a Future Where Accessibility Is No Longer an Afterthought
Nature belongs to everyone. At Wheelable Wilderness, we aren't just creating a new set of trails—we are redefining the standard for how humanity interacts with the natural world. Our mission is to build highly immersive, fully inclusive wilderness sanctuaries that cater to the needs of the disabled community, ensuring that nobody is left behind in the call of the wild. We believe that true healing and peace are found under the canopy of trees, beside the rush of a river, and amidst the silence of the mountains.
- We believe that nature is a human right, not a luxury.
- We believe that accessibility should be beautiful, intentional, and seamless.
- We believe that true adventure is universal and should be shared by all.
- We believe that the blueprints we create in Kentucky will ignite a national standard for all 50 states.
The Night the World Shrank—and Then Expanded
Our Founder's Journey
When I was 17, my life changed forever. I was struck by a drunk driver in a crash that left me paralyzed — and even more devastatingly, it took the life of my best friend due to complications from the wreck.
Before the accident, I was just a country kid who lived for the outdoors. Every summer, I’d hunt, fish on our farm and camp at a nearby lake, surrounded by trees, fresh air, and freedom. When you grow up like that, the outdoors becomes a part of you — a part of your identity, your soul. So when I became disabled, that love didn’t just disappear. But suddenly, nature wasn’t accessible to me anymore.
Still, I refused to let that stop me. I found my own ways to reconnect with the outdoors — even if they weren’t always the safest — because I wasn’t going to let anything take that joy from me. I've always said, "If there is a will, there is a way!"
One year, I decided to celebrate my birthday by staying at a campground that had a single accessible site. I booked it in advance, excited for a weekend in nature. But when I arrived, I was told the site had been double-booked. The campground owner gave my spot to another family — who showed no visible signs of disability — and moved me to a non-accessible site.
That site had a large tree root blocking the entrance, making it impossible for me to even reach the tent area. I had to sit on the side of the road in my wheelchair, watching my fiancée struggle to set up camp by herself. That night, I slept in the car. It was cold, it was uncomfortable, and it was heartbreaking.
We left the next morning — defeated, disappointed, and angry. But on the way home, something shifted in me. I realized that I’m probably not the only one this has happened to. And I thought: instead of just "wanting change" why not "BE THE CHANGE"?
That moment sparked the vision for Wheelable Wilderness — a movement to make the great outdoors truly accessible for everyone.
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Wheelable Wilderness was born from that frustration, fueled by a simple choice: to be the change. We started with one goal—to ensure no one ever has to choose between their safety and their soul's need for the outdoors. Today, we are a movement building the bridges, providing the gear, and fostering the community that makes the wild truly accessible.
Let’s make the wilderness Wheelable — together.
ACCESSIBILITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Exceeding Standards Instead of Meeting Minimums
Wheelable Wilderness was founded to solve a problem: The outdoors transition from 'exclusive' to 'accessible' the moment the ends barriers to the outdoors. We believe that physical limitations should not dictate the depth of your relationship with the natural world.
- Beyond ADA: ADA is a floor, not a ceiling. Our facilities are designed for ADA+ compliance, with wider entryways, lowered fixtures, and zero-threshold transitions throughout every structure.Â
- Independence as Priority: Every inch of our flagship location is designed for autonomous navigation. We want our guests to explore on their own terms, not just with assistance.
- Cognitive & Sensory Inclusion: Accessible paths are only half the battle. We integrate quiet zones, high-contrast wayfinding, and sensory-balanced environments for neurodivergent guests and those with PTSD.
- Adaptive Tech Integration:Â From off-grid lift systems to AI-guided trail assistance, we leverage modern technology to bridge the gap between capability and geography.
What We Do
Adaptive Equipment Rentals
We provide specialized gear designed for accessibility and the best part? It is 100% completely FREE. We will personally deliver the equipment directly to you within a 200-mile radius of Bowling Green, KY. Freedom and independence are now just a reservation away.
Empowering Workshops
More than just a class—it's a connection. Our workshops focus on interactive skill-building and inclusive activities that celebrate nature and community, giving every individual the opportunity to learn, create, and thrive alongside friends.
Community & Inclusion
Building a vibrant network of advocacy and support that brings people together. We bridge the gap between veterans, seniors, and local facilities, fostering deep connections through meaningful nature experiences that prove the outdoors belongs to everyone. We create accessible pathways for support and ensure that no one is left behind.
Meet the Fleet
Our mission starts here with the Action Trackchair ST. This heavy-duty machine is the first of many we plan to deploy, designed specifically to traverse the terrains that standard wheelchairs can't touch. With your continued support, we will continue to grow this fleet until every trail is truly wheelable.
Individuals with Disabilities
Offering specialized equipment and adaptive support for those with mobility challenges to navigate rugged terrain.
Seniors
Empowering older adults to maintain an active outdoor lifestyle with safe, accessible gear and guided excursions.
Who We Serve
Wheelable Wilderness is dedicated to breaking down barriers for specific communities, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to connect with the great outdoors.
Veterans
Providing therapeutic nature experiences and community connection for our nation's heroes through adaptive adventures.
Local Facilities & Partners
Collaborating with healthcare providers and community centers to deliver high-impact workshops and inclusion programs.
TRANSPARENCY • IMPACT • GROWTH • TRANSPARENCY • IMPACT • GROWTH • TRANSPARENCY • IMPACT • GROWTH
25+
Adapted outings led across state parks. Powered by our Silver Tier sponsors.
500+
Lives impacted through adaptive workshops. Supported by Gold Tier partners.
100%
Transparency in funding. Growth is fueled by our Community and Sponsorship tiers.
Our Team
Kent Madison
Jessica Madison
Erica Cutright
Jessica Sheene
Founder & Executive Director
Kent’s passion for the outdoors is only matched by his drive for radical accessibility. As Founder and Executive Director, he leads the charge in breaking down barriers and ensuring the wilderness is open to everyone.
Community Outreach Director
Jessica builds the vital bridges between our mission and the community, leading our outreach efforts to ensure veterans, seniors, and local families stay connected to nature.
Secretary
As our Secretary, Erica handles the vital behind-the-scenes coordination to ensure our mission stays on track and our community remains connected.
Community Outreach Coordinator
As our Outreach Coordinator, Jessica manages the day-to-day connections and scheduling that bring our workshops and adaptive gear to the heart of the community.
Dave Sheene
Mechanic & Repairs
Dave is the mechanical expert who keeps our fleet trail-ready, ensuring every piece of adaptive gear is safe and meticulously maintained for your next adventure