All-terrain wheelchair access added to Ryerson Woods

A donation from the Ancient Oaks Foundation will help more visitors experience the trails at Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods.

The Lake Zurich-based nonprofit, which protects and restores oak woodlands and other natural areas, donated a GRIT Freedom Chair to the Lake County Forest Preserves this fall.

Designed for travel beyond paved routes, the all-terrain wheelchair can navigate grass, gravel, dirt, sand and snow. Rugged tires handle varied terrain, while hand-operated levers require less effort than pushing traditional wheelchair rims. Riders can use the chair independently or with assistance from a companion.

Ryerson offers more than 6.5 miles of trails, including more than 5 miles with grass surfaces. Routes wind through woodlands, past a historic building and along the Des Plaines River.

Visitors can borrow at no charge from the Ryerson Welcome Center on a first-come, first-served basis during facility hours. It must remain on-site.

For more information, call (847) 968-3320.