LAKE COUNTY, Ohio — One northeast Ohio park is making it easier for everyone to experience the great outdoors. 

Girdled Road Reservation now has an ADA accessible overlook deck along with paved trails. Lake Metroparks made the modifications just in time for viewing the fall foliage. 

“We didn’t have to do any extra and we felt considered,” said Emily Lark. “And we could just literally get out of the car and enjoy. Go on a path and enjoy nature.”

Lark’s daughter Annika loves spending time outside but has a tough time getting around. 

“She has to really work with her body that is sometimes fighting against her to intentionally get it to move where she wants to,” Emily Lark said. 

She said the ramp to the deck overlooking Big Creek Valley gives her 2-year-old a chance to experience nature. 

“You can hear the water flowing and the birds,” Emily Lark said. “And she loves this time of year, the changing leaves. She really likes to look at those.”

The deck’s design makes it easier for them to maneuver. 

“We really appreciate when the disabled community is considered,” she said. “Like, if you design for the disabled community, everybody can enjoy it.”

The paved path at the park also allows Annika to reach out and feel the textures of the trees and leaves. The chance to use multiple senses helps her development, Emily Lark said.

“It helps with grounding, with emotional regulation,” she said. “And that is something that has become very important to us.”

The peaceful surroundings provide a peace of mind and an even playing field. 

“We can play here, we can hike here,” she said. “And she can be a kid.”