A new report from the National Park Accessibility Coalition released this week maps stroller-accessible trails and picnic sites in 120 cities across the United States. The study, published Monday, surveyed park facilities between 2024 and 2025 and focused on paved surfaces, gentle inclines and restroom proximity.
Researchers visited trails and picnic areas to measure slope, surface type and distance to restrooms, producing a searchable database for families. The findings aim to explain why many caregivers avoid outdoor outings and to help parks prioritize low-cost improvements that increase access.
62% Of Surveyed Parks Have at Least One Paved Stroller Route Within 0.5 Miles
The coalition found that 62% of the 1,200 parks surveyed provide at least one paved path suitable for single- and double-strollers within half a mile of main entrances. They measured paths for continuous paved surfaces and maximum grade under 5 percent, which most caregivers consider manageable with a stroller.
That share varied widely by region, with northern suburban parks showing higher percentages than older urban centers. The disparity highlights how historic park design and recent investments shape everyday accessibility for families with infants and toddlers.
For parents, the availability of paved routes reduces the preparation barrier for outdoor outings and increases the likelihood of frequent park visits. Parks that lack such routes risk excluding caregivers who rely on strollers for mobility and child safety.
48% Of Picnic Sites Located Within 100 Meters of Flush Restrooms
Nearly half, 48%, of identified picnic areas were within 100 meters of flush restroom facilities, according to the report’s geospatial analysis. The team prioritized flush restrooms because they offer changing tables and better hygiene compared with portable toilets, which are common in many parks.
Access to nearby restrooms matters for families managing feeding, diapering and bathroom breaks during outings. Parks with convenient restroom access often see longer visits and higher repeat attendance from caregivers with young children.
Local park managers told researchers that installing or upgrading restrooms is one of the most effective ways to attract family groups. The cost of adding a restroom varies but typically yields measurable increases in park use and visitor satisfaction.
32% Of Trails Exceed Safe Stroller Incline; Retrofit Needs Identified
The assessment showed that 32% of mapped trails include segments with inclines steeper than the 5 percent threshold considered stroller-friendly. Surveyors documented short steep sections near natural features and older stair-access points that block stroller passage.
Retrofits such as switchback ramps, regrading and short retaining walls can reduce grades and create safe, continuous routes for caregivers. Park directors emphasized that many retrofits require modest budgets and can be phased into routine maintenance plans.
When municipalities plan repairs, addressing steep segments improves access for families using strollers, wheelchair users and older adults. Prioritizing these changes can lead to broader community gains in health and inclusivity.
70% Of Stroller-friendly Routes Have Seating and Shade Every 400 Meters
The coalition found that 70% of stroller-accessible paths include benches or shaded rest spots roughly every 400 meters, which aligns with best-practice guidelines for family comfort. These amenities support breaks during longer walks and provide safe places for feeding and changing kids.
Shade structures and seating also correlate with longer visitor stays, especially during warmer months when caregivers need sun protection. Parks that add benches and trees often see improved perceptions of safety and cleanliness among family visitors.
Designers recommend placing seating near viewpoints, restrooms and picnic areas to create coherent, family-friendly routes. Small investments in shade and seating can greatly enhance the usability of existing paved paths.
Top Stroller Features to Bring: Suspension, Adjustable Handle, and Large Wheels
The report includes a practical checklist of stroller features that improve comfort on outdoor trails, emphasizing suspension systems, adjustable handles and six-inch or larger wheels. These features help caregivers navigate uneven pavement, small curbs and compacted surfaces commonly found in parks.
Lightweight frames combined with good suspension reduce caregiver fatigue and improve child comfort over longer distances. Adjustable handles ensure ergonomic pushing for adults of different heights, and larger wheels roll more easily over minor obstacles.
Researchers also recommend weather shields, snack trays and storage baskets to make outings smoother and reduce the need for extra bags. Choosing a stroller with these features increases the chances that families will take advantage of stroller-accessible routes.
Map Tools and Community Reporting Increased Route Coverage by 15%
The coalition piloted a community-reporting tool that boosted mapped stroller-route coverage by 15% during the study period. Parents and local volunteers used a smartphone app to flag newly paved segments, restroom updates and problematic slopes for verification.
Engaging community members produced rapid, low-cost data and helped authorities target small fixes that improved usability. Park managers reported that public input also raised awareness and political support for incremental accessibility projects.
Officials plan to keep the reporting tool active and expand partnerships with parenting groups to update information in real time. Sustained community involvement can maintain the accuracy of maps and drive incremental park improvements.
Small Investments Yield Measurable Increases in Family Visits and Inclusivity
Case studies across five cities showed that investments under $50,000 in paving, ramps and restroom upgrades increased family visits by 20 to 35 percent. The coalition documented attendance counts and visitor surveys before and after upgrades to quantify these gains.
Municipalities reported additional benefits, including longer visitor stays, higher use of park programs and improved perceptions of safety. These outcomes often justified larger budget allocations for future accessibility improvements.
Advocates say that affordable, targeted projects deliver tangible return on investment by opening public spaces to more caregivers and children. Prioritizing stroller-friendly infrastructure aligns with broader equity goals and supports healthier, more connected communities.
The coalition released the full dataset and interactive map to help families plan outings and to guide local officials. Caregivers can search by paved surface, maximum incline and restroom proximity to find suitable trails and picnic sites near them.