THE TRAIL
Braille Posts
THE INSPIRATION
The Beginning of the Trail
The inspiration for my project came from an unforgettable experience that I had while walking a blind trail on Cape Cod as a very young child. Walking with my eyes closed, I had a moment of realization that the natural world has so much to offer when you focus on your other 4 senses. When I was presented with the opportunity to develop an Eagle Scout project, the idea of a blind trail was exciting to me because it would help blind people navigate nature AND it would encourage sighted people to engage with nature using their other 4 senses, which can be a very powerful experience.
WHO DID IT?
The Beginning of the Trail
My name is Andrew Hoadley and I am an Eagle Scout in BSA Troop 28 Cohasset. I designed and developed the Tupelo Trail and its assistive technologies.
I currently hold the position of Senior Patrol Leader in Troop 28 Cohasset, an elected role that is the highest position that can be held in a Scout Troop. It is my job to lead a troop of over 80 other scouts at weekly meetings, Zoom calls, trips, campouts, and outdoor expeditions and to help the Troop adapt to COVID - safe meeting and gatherings formats.
In this role, and with the installation and development of this trail, I enjoy helping people and believe in making sure that everyone is included. These beliefs are what inspired me to create the Tupelo Trail’s experience and what is continuing to motivate me by developing an App that can make the trail touch-free.
I am currently a Senior at Cohasset High School, and my other interests are pursuing a grant that I won with my partner for the Marjot Foundation to study eel grass with the Center for Coastal Studies in Cohasset. I am also a leader of the school Debate Team, a competitive rower, a cello player and the Scout Leader (Senior Patrol Leader) of over 85 Scouts in BSA Troop 28. I hope to pursue and develop all of these interests in college in 2021, including the further development of my trail and its accompanying app as a template for others to create trails for Blind Hikers across the nation.
WHAT IS IT?
The Beginning of the Trail
The Tupelo Trail began as my Eagle Scout project, where braille posts were installed along the trail to give those who are blind a chance to enjoy a walk through nature with limited help. The trail is geared toward varied experience and capabilities, with the goal of providing a great experience for those who want a gentle, accessible walk outside to those that are looking for a safe adventure in the outdoors. The trail is well-travelled and provides an educational experience for hikers of all ages, sight and physical abilities.
Because the trail is situated on natural pathways, it is not considered ADA Accessible for wheelchairs. The surrounding campus of the SSNSC is, however, ADA compliant for bathroom, parking, and other accessible opportunities.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
The Beginning of the Trail
The Tupelo Trail is located at the South Shore Natural Science Center iat 9 Jacobs Lane, Norwell, MA .
COVID 19 UPDATES: The parking lot is clearly marked for traffic flow. Park in the visitors lot and continue to the trail at the dropoff point. Roped guideposts will lead you to the trail.
It is recommended that visitors check in at the accessible main entry to the visitor building. The SSNSC will welcome you at the reception desk!
Admission to the Tupelo Trail is not charged but donations to the SSNSC are appreciated.