John Muir, the naturalist and Sierra Club founder who is the father of the National Park Service, said it best: “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”

The peace that comes from a walk in the woods is one of life’s great pleasures. Expansion of the nation’s hiking and biking trails draws more people every year to enjoy scenic vistas and beautiful byways. New Justice Department rules that took effect this month should expand opportunities to more people with disabilities as well.

Yet some trail advocates worry that the rules could change the nature of a walk in the woods. Wheelchair users would be guaranteed access just about anywhere pedestrians can travel. But the real concerns are with broadly defined “power-driven mobility devices.” …

Some motorized wheelchairs already are allowed on trails, with no detriment to safety. Trail advocates have an opportunity, in developing their own policies, to preserve these natural wonders while opening them to people who have yet to enjoy a trip through the woods.

The (Toledo) Blade