Westfield & Noblesville disabilities councils partner for Sensory Nature Walk

Submitted by City of Westfield

The Advisory Councils on Disabilities from both Westfield and Noblesville will jointly host the annual Sensory Nature Walk from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 20 along the Midland Trace Trail.

The event will feature sensory-friendly activities, community resource booths, and interactive experiences during a self-guided walk between the newly renovated Simon Moon Park and Hazel Dell Elementary School.

“Events like the Sensory Nature Walk help create more inclusive experiences for residents and families of all abilities,” Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said. “We’re proud to partner with the City of Noblesville and both advisory councils to highlight the importance of accessibility, connection, and community.”

“We’re fortunate to have dedicated groups like the Advisory Council on Disabilities in both cities helping lead these efforts, and I look forward to continuing collaborations that showcase accessibility for all abilities in Noblesville and our neighboring communities,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said.

The Midland Trace Trail is ADA accessible, allowing individuals of all ages and abilities to participate. Attendees may park and access the trail from any of the three designated locations listed below and walk as much of the two-mile route as they wish. Rest areas will also be available along the trail near activity and resource booths.

Parking will be available at:

• Simon Moon Park (3044 E. 171st St., Westfield)
• Behind Red Habanero (17417 Carey Road, Westfield)
• Hazel Dell Elementary School (3025 Westfield Road, Noblesville)

Participants can interact with a variety of community organizations and activity booths, including:

• Bee Free
• Carter’s Play Place
• ICAN
• Janus Developmental Services
• Noblesville Advisory Council on Disabilities
• Noblesville Best Buddies
• Noblesville Parks & Recreation
• Noblesville Police Department
• Noblesville Fire Department
• Prana Play
• Sensory Shop
• Thrive Social Club
• Westfield Advisory Council on Disabilities
• Westfield Best Buddies
• Westfield Family Network
• Westfield Parks & Recreation
• Westfield Police Department

Police officers will assist with traffic control where the walk crosses Gray Road and Carey Road. Individuals traveling through the area during the event are encouraged to use caution along the Midland Trace Trail. Organizers also request that bicycles not be used during the program.

In the event of inclement weather, all activities will be moved indoors to Hazel Dell Elementary School.

For more information, visit westfieldin.gov/wacd.