What We Do
The aim of the MDI Wheelers is to provide joyful experiences on the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park for people unable to ride a bike by themselves. Our mission is to serve our community by increasing the accessibility of Acadia National Park Carriage Roads.
We offer safe and comfortable rides on special electric-assist trikes for people who would like a ride on the carriage roads but need assistance. All rides are free. The program we offer has received a Special Use Permit from Acadia National Park.
Most rides start at Eagle Lake and are group rides with at least three volunteers. Our volunteers serve as Pilots and Safeties. Pilots peddle the trike and Safeties ride in front and behind the E-trike.
MDI Wheelers featured in NationalParks magazine
The story, Free Wheeling by Katherine DeGroff, is about breaking down accessibility barriers in the great outdoors, which is just what MDI Wheelers does in Acadia National Park.
“Dedicated advocates and innovative technology are taking national park access further than ever before.”
Partners
We partner with organizations who serve the needs of disabled people in our community. If you are interested in partnering with us, please contact us. Include your contact information and a brief statement about how you would like to help.
We are proud partners with Friends of Acadia in their work to improve the accessibility of ANP. We were the focus of the lead article in their summer magazine in 2023 (MDI Wheelers Helps People Unable to Ride a Bike Get Out on Acadia’s Carriage Roads). To learn more about FOA’s activities to promote the accessibility of Acadia National Park be sure to visit their website.
Birch Bay Retirement Village is home to approximately 90 residents through its cottage, apartments, residential and memory care neighborhoods. Birch Bay also operates the Don and Beth Straus Center, adult day program, providing daytime respite services to a dozen local residents who join the center’s programs and activities. In 2023, Birch Bay began a partnership with the MDI Wheelers, providing adaptive bike rides for residents who can no longer peddle a bicycle themselves. This partnership has promoted a rich and rewarding experience for our residents to enjoy our beautiful backyard, Acadia National Park, safely and comfortably.
My husband Tom has been a resident at Safe Harbor in Birch Bay Retirement Village for the past few months. We are both so grateful to the MDI Wheelers and their wonderful program for folks who are no longer able to bike through the park on their own. Riding though the park with the wind blowing, fresh air filling our lungs and beautiful scenery inspiring us was a highlight of Tom’s stay at Birch Bay. Using E-bikes with an adapted seat in front, the MDI Wheeler volunteers skillfully and safely peddle their passengers through the gorgeous carriage roads in Acadia National Park.
– With gratitude, Sarah and Tom Chandler
