Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails

Elevated Dune Crossings

An dune crossing that is elevated or has a slope that exceeds 1:20 (5 percent) that is part of a beach access route must have handrails and edge protection (figure 118). Locate handrails continuously along both sides of the dune crossing at a height of 34 inches (865 millimeters) to 38 inches (965 millimeters) above the walking surface. Ensure the handrails are easy to grip and comply with all the other requirements in ABAAS, section 505. Provide a curb or barrier directly under the handrail that would prevent a 2-inch (50-millimeter) sphere on, or up to 2 inches (50 millimeters) above, the dune crossing surface from rolling under the handrail. The clear width of elevated dune crossings may be narrower than the rest of the beach access route, but must be at least 48 inches (1,220 millimeters). Resting intervals are not required on elevated dune crossings. Consider including resting intervals similar to those for outdoor recreation access routes if the elevated crossing is steeper than 1:20 (5 percent).

Figure 118—The requirements for width, handrails, and edge protection onan elevated beach access route.