As a travel writer since 1977, Candy Harrington has been writing about accessible travel exclusively since 1996. She’s the founding editor of Emerging Horizons, and the author of the popular Barrier-Free Travel national park series. With thousands of bylines to her credit, Candy hits the road often, in search of new accessible travel finds. Candy and her travel photographer husband Charles Pannell reside in NE Washington, where they tend to their chicken flock and enjoy a rural lifestyle.
Located on the Orihuela Costa in Spain, this wheelchair-accessible Costa Blanca villa can sleep up to nine people. This Villamartin unit features ramp access, wide doorways and an open floor plan. The accessible bedroom is furnished with a single hospital bed and a portable lift (visitors must provide their own sling). The accessible bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead and a rolling shower-commode chair. The toilet grab bars are attached to the toilet, and there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair around the bathroom.
Outside there’s a large private swimming pool that’s equipped with a ramp. Accessible airport transfers to and from Alicante and Murcia airports are included with each Costa Blanca villa rental. Additionally, an accessible van is available for day trips to beaches, markets, Spanish towns and Zenia Boulevard. For more information visit www.costablancawheelchairfriendly.com.
Barrier-Free Travel
California National Park Road Trips
for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Air Canada recently updated its wheelchair policy, which will make travel easier for many wheelchair-users and slow walkers. The new Air Canada wheelchair policy gives customers more flexibility, as it allows a wider range of mobility aids and includes the ability for passengers to track them while in transit.
The new policy allows customers to bring along up to three mobility aids at no charge. These can include:
Wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids
Adaptive sports equipment, such as adaptive skis or handcycles
Patient lifts
Other transfer devices
Additionally, if a mobility aid is too large to travel on the same aircraft as the customer, Air Canada Cargo will complimentarily transport it within Canada.
“Travelling with a mobility aid can involve significant planning, and we recognize the uncertainty customers may feel when they are separated from equipment that is essential to their independence,” said Kerianne Wilson, Director, Customer Accessibility at Air Canada. “This new policy is about giving customers more consistent choices, clearer expectations and greater confidence when they travel with us.”
There’s been a lot of misinformation on the internet lately about the US Department of Transportation (DOT) rolling back or not enforcing wheelchair-access rules under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). First and foremost, this is not true, and all protections that are in place under the ACAA will continue to be recognized by US air carriers and foreign air carriers on flights to and from the US. The misunderstanding stems from a misinterpretation of the process of updating the current ACAA.
The ACAA Update Process
The ACAA dates back to 1986, and over the years as technology and travel have evolved so have the regulations. But because they are government regulations it’s not like they can be easily updated. It’s a process. And it usually takes years.
It begins when the need for a change is recognized by the DOT. Then there are usually a series of public meetings to gather feedback on the proposed changes, and to determine the exact needs of the public. Then the proposed regulations are crafted by a committee, which usually takes years. Sometimes it takes longer, as there is a lot of input from the disabled community, airlines and other businesses.
After the proposed changes are finally agreed upon, they are published in the Federal Register. Then there is a public comment period, which can take six months or more. Then the Access Board reconvenes and considers the public comments from both consumers and the airlines. And then they may make changes if appropriate. But we’re not done yet!
The final rule is then published in the Federal Register, along with an implementation date. Depending on the complexity of the regulation that implementation date may be six months or six years in the the future.
The “Current” Proposed Changes
Which brings us to our current situation, and the most recent changes to the ACAA. They have been “in the works” for many years and they were finally released in 2024.
Most of these changes were originally scheduled to go into effect in 2025, but were subsequently delayed until December 31, 2026. The DOT recently further delayed that implementation date on four of those changes until April 30, 2027. The delayed changes are those that pertain to:
Mishandled wheelchairs
Refresher training frequency
Pre-departure notifications
Fare difference reimbursements
Additionally the DOT also extended implementation of the refreshed training frequency in the Accessible Lavatories on Single Aisle Aircraft Rule, to April 30, 2027.
But remember this delay only applies to the training. That rule will still take decades to be fully implemented.
So why did the DOT delay the implementation of the changes? Well basically some of the airlines initiated legal proceedings against the changes and that prompted the DOT to give things a closer look.
And to be honest, just about anything can happen between now and April 30, 2027, the new scheduled implementation date. The rules may go into effect as written, they may be updated, or there could be another delay. Only time will tell. After all, it is a government process.
The important thing to remember is that the current ACAA remains in full effect. Nothing has changed. These new regulations have not even been implemented yet, and only a portion of them will be delayed. And when you consider the protections that the ACAA already offers, those changes are minor.
Bottom line – slow walkers and wheelchair-users are still fully protected under the ACAA.
Know Your Rights
Of course it’s still important to know your rights under the ACAA. Here are the basics.
And remember, the DOT is NOT rolling back wheelchair access rules on airplanes, as reported by some media. It’s merely going through the routine process of updating those rules. In other words – business as usual.
In order to make their natural areas more accessible to wheelchair-users and slow walkers, a number of Texas state parks offer loaner assistive wheelchairs . These manual and power models help folks navigate over sand, rocky areas and other obstacles that standard manual and power wheelchairs cannot handle. The following models are now available in select Texas State Parks. Visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/park-information/accessibility/assistive-chairs for more information on the specific state parks that offer these loaner assistive wheelchairs, .
GRIT Freedom Chair
GRIT Freedom Chair
The GRIT Freedom Chair is a cross between a manual wheelchair and a mountain bike, and it allows wheelchair-users and slow walkers to access rugged terrain or sandy beaches. Built with mountain bike parts, the GRIT Freedom Chair has three wheels – two standard wheelchair wheels on the sides of the seat, and a smaller wheel in front of the chair. It’s easier to self-propel than a standard wheelchair, thanks to the lever handles installed on each side of the seat; however there are also push handles on the back of the chair for folks who need more assistance. Add in some all terrain tires, and you have a rugged wheelchair, built to tackle rougher terrain.
Motorized Track Chairs
Action Track Chair
Several motorized track chairs models are also available at select Texas State Park. These rugged wheelchairs are outfitted with tank track instead of wheels and can traverse over rugged obstacles. They are user-operated, but there is also an option for a companion to operate the track chairs. The motorized track chair models that Texas State Parks offer include the Action Trackchair (weight capacity 400 pounds), the EcoRover (weight capacity 350 pounds), the X8 and the Terrain Hopper. These motorized track chairs can be used on designated park trails, and even though they can be operated independently a companion is suggested. You may also bring you own wheelchair-cushion to use on these models.
Tandem Hiking Carts
Cascade Tandem Hiking Cart
The Cascade Tandem Hiking Cart allows a “sherpa” (that the wheelchair-user provides) to pull a passenger in the cart which is attached to a backpack. These carts can traverse over sand, snow and singletrack trails, and they are built for backcountry access that some all-terrain wheelchairs can’t always reach. Although they are rated to carry passengers of up to 150 pounds, Texas State Parks sets the recommended passenger weight limit at no more than 100 pounds for “new users”. Additionally, the total weight of the passenger and the gear must not exceed 50 percent of the sherpa’s weight. A helmet is recommended for the rider; and cushions, adaptive supports and other comfort items can also be brought along. The sherpa should be in good physical condition, and it’s best to plan for a shorter hike on your first outing.
So make plans to enjoy a Texas State park with one of these loaner assistive wheelchairs. It’s a great – and very accessible – way to enjoy the outdoors.
Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Slow walkers and wheelchair-users who want to explore a few of the more challenging trails in Zion National Park, can now borrow an Extreme Motus wheelchair. This wheelchair has a long wheelbase for maximum stability and is fitted with three balloon tires to absorb bumps on the rougher trails. It has a maximum user weight of 250 pounds and a maximum user height of 6 feet. And although the Extreme Motus gives folks a smoother ride over difficult terrain, it cannot be operated independently, so you’ll need someone to assist you if you borrow it.
The chair can be checked-out at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center on a first-come first-serve basis. A valid ID and proof of insurance is required to borrow the chair, and a brief training is provided to all users. Additionally, since the park shuttle cannot accommodate the Extreme Motus, visitors who borrow this all terrain wheelchair will also be given a pass to drive their own vehicle up Zion Canyon. And as an aside, if you have a disability that prevents you from taking the shuttle (larger wheelchair, oxygen, extra medical equipment) you can also get a pass to drive your personal vehicle up Zion Canyon (emerginghorizons.com/driving-passes-for-disabled-national-park-visitors/) even if you don’t borrow the Extreme Motus.
So where can you go with the Extreme Motus in Zion National Park? Well of course you can do the Pa’rus Trail, but to be honest you can do that in a regular wheelchair. You might want to try it on the Riverside Walk, as sometimes that trail gets rough from the extreme weather conditions. Other suggestions are the Weeping Rock Trail and Lower Emerald Pools, although you may want to have a little extra help on those. You can also give most of park’s inaccessible intermediate trails a try; however you cannot go on the more dangerous and challenging trails like the Zion Narrows or Angels Landing.
So give the Extreme Motus in Zion National Park a try on your next visit. You won’t be sorry!
Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Named by French Canadian fur traders for the stone islands in the middle of the treacherous rapids in the Columbia River, The Dalles is steeped in history. That said, although the town name comes from the French word for flagstone, there’s far more to see than a few river stones in this Northwestern Oregon city. From the history of early explorers to the impressive dam and even a vibrant if not eclectic downtown area, there’s plenty to see and do in this thriving Columbia River community. And the good news is, much of it is wheelchair-accessible.
A Downtown Stroll
One of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the history and character of The Dalles is to explore some of the 30-plus murals in the downtown area (explorethedalles.com/murals/). A project of the Dalles Mural Society these pieces depict the people and places that shaped the area. And along the mural walk, there are also a few must-see historic stops.
At the top of the list is The Dalles City Hall, which is located at 313 Court Street. Accessible street parking is located on Court Street; and although the outside of City Hall offers is nice photo op, there’s also a noteworthy display inside. The Dalles Fire Museum is located on the ground floor and is open during City Hall business hours. It offers a historic look at the local fire companies and honors the lifesaving actions of local firefighters. It’s a fun look at some vintage equipment. Best of all, there’s barrier-free access to this historic display/
And for more ideas of things to do in the downtown area, visit explorethedalles.com.
A Slice of History
Fort Dalles Museum
For a dive into the history of the area, make sure and stop at the Fort Dalles Museum (www.fortdallesmuseum.org). Despite the age of this historic structure, wheelchair-access was worked into the master plan, so today most folks can easily navigate the grounds.
One of Oregon’s oldest museum buildings, the main house dates back to 1856, when it served as the surgeon’s quarters at the original fort. There’s parallel parking on the street in front of the fort, and a nice accessible pathway to the front door. Inside, there’s good access on their first floor, which has a large living area, a kitchen and dining room and a music room. There’s also a narrow stairway to the two small upstairs bedrooms. Still the first floor houses the bulk of the exhibits, which include old photos, furniture, rifles, dishes, surgeon’s tools, and a nice collection of Native American artifacts. And if you have any questions, just ask the helpful docent.
Out back there’s a gravel pathway down to the the antique vehicle building which houses a gaggle of historic cars. They are in various states or restoration and include a 1908 Knox touring car, a 1925 Ford roadster, an 1884 Hansom cab, a milk wagon and a few vintage hearses. Next door there’s an outside display of carriages, and although there’s a wide pathway, some folks may need assistance with the slight uphill slope.
Antique Vehicle Building at the Fort Dalles Museum
There are also a few picnic tables in a level area near the back of the house, with accessible restrooms just around the corner. And you can get a nice view of the historic Anderson House from the back of the property, so pack along a picnic lunch, take a break and enjoy the view.
Riverside trail at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
And for a deeper dig into the history of the area, a stop at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center (emerginghorizons.com/columbia-river-gorge-discovery-center/) is certainly warranted. This excellent museum celebrates the cultural and natural resources of the Columbia Gorge; and as an added bonus it also offers a nice accessible riverside trail.
Dalles Dam viewed from the Dalles Lock & Dam Visitor Center
Don’t forget to stop at the Dalles Lock & Dam Visitor Center while you are in the area, as it offers a nice view of the dam. Just take exit 87 from Interstate 84 and follow the signs. There’s level access to the visitor center, but the hours are usually limited to summer and fall weekends. You can still get a good view of the dam from the accessible scope in the parking lot, and there are some covered accessible picnic tables next to the visitor center if you’d like to have lunch there.
Multnomah Falls on the Columbia River Highway Waterfall Corridor
Of course, with all the things to see and do in the area, it’s best to spend a night or two. And in that respect, Cousins’ Country Inn (cousinscountryinn.com) is a comfortable and accessible choice.
There’s an accessible drop-off area in front of the office, with level access to the front desk, and the adjacent restaurant. From there, it’s just a short drive to accessible room 149. There’s accessible parking in front, with level access over to the front door.
Access features in the room include wide doorways, lever handles, a lowered closet rod and low-pile carpet for easy rolling. It’s furnished with a 27-inch high king-sized platform bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two nightstands, a chest of drawers, an easy chair and a dining table with two chairs. And even with all that furniture, there’s still plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair. The room also has a refrigerator and a microwave, and there’s a roll-under sink in the main room, next to the bathroom.
The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Top it off with a toilet with grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated) and you have a very functional and accessible bathroom.
Overnight guests also get a discount on breakfast at Cousins’ Restaurant, which is located off the lobby. All in all, Cousins’ Country Inn is an affordable and accessible lodging choice.
(click for larger image)
Room 149
Toilet in Room 149
Shower in Room 149
Vanity in Room 149
Barrier-Free Travel California National Parks Road Trips Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Marina Sunrise viewed from Westport Marina Cottages
Westport is the quintessential Pacific Northwest fishing village. Located 130 miles southwest of Seattle, it sports a one-lane main drag that’s dominated by the marina and dotted with a chowder house, a donut shack, a few souvenir shops, several fishing charter companies and the requisite local pub. With a population of only 2,300 it’s a laid back spot to escape, recharge and relax.
Of course, this quaint fishing village also has its fair share of must-see attractions, including some scenic trails, a historic lighthouse and a gaggle of picturesque ocean views. And although at first glance this out-of-the-way locale may not appear to be an ideal choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, a deeper dig reveals a number of accessible haunts. So pack the car and head over to the coast for a relaxing wheelchair-accessible Westport getaway.
Stroll along the Shore
View from the Lower Level of the Westport Viewing Platform
The Westport Light Trail and Viewing Station, which borders on Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean, is a good first stop. There are several spots to access the 2.4-mile wheelchair accessible oceanside trail, but the viewing station is located at the intersection of Westhaven Drive and Neddie Rose Drive near the marina.
Part of Westport Light State Park (parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/westport-light-state-park), the viewing area offers accessible parking in front, with barrier-free access to the lighthouse-like viewing platform. There’s ramped access up to the first level of the viewing station, but only stairs to the upper levels. Still you can get a nice ocean view from the first level. And if you’d like to stop for lunch, there are some picnic tables on a level grassy area near the viewing station that also have a good ocean view.
The viewing station also marks the north end of the Westport Light Trail, which winds along the beach and offers some more great views. This paved trail is wide and level, and it’s sheltered from the waves, but you can still see the breakers crash into the rocks. The whole length of the trail is wheelchair-accessible, but you can do as little or as much of it as you like.
You can also access the Westport Light Trail from two places along Jetty Haul Road. The Half Moon Bay Parking Area is located about .6 mile down the trail. There’s an accessible parking space there, with level access to the trail. Down the road another .6 miles in the Westhaven Parking Area, which is slightly more developed. There’s accessible parking with level access over to the accessible restrooms, and an accessible picnic table on a cement pad nearby. And of course, there’s level access to the Westport Light Trail.
The Historic Lighthouse
Grays Harbor Lighthouse
No trip to Westport is complete without a stop at the historic Grays Harbor Lighthouse. If you’re up for a hike, you can continue on along the Westport Light Trail for another 1.2 miles until you hit the terminus at the parking lot on Ocean Avenue. From there, just follow Ocean Avenue for another .4 mile to the lighthouse — you can’t miss it.
If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to drive, there are numerous parallel parking spots near the lighthouse along Ocean Avenue. From there it’s just a short roll to the lighthouse viewing platform. There’s a level cement pathway, with barrier-free access over to the platform, which offers an excellent view of the lighthouse.
If you’d like to get closer there’s a short dirt pathway over to the lighthouse, however it’s got a few ruts and bumps and after a rain it’s a muddy mess. Alternatively you can borrow a track chair from David’s Chair (davidschair.org/request-fixed-location-chair/). These heavy duty chairs have tank tracks for tires, and will easily navigate around the lighthouse area. Plan ahead though, as reservations must be made at least seven days in advance and the track chairs are not available every day.
Westport Light Trail ffrom the South Trailhead
And of course you can also access the south trailhead of the Westport Light Trail from the parking lot at the end of Ocean Avenue. There’s accessible parking near the accessible restrooms, with trail access just to the left of the parking area. Even if you already took a stroll on the north section of the trail, it’s still worth look here for more great ocean views.
Another Ocean Stroll
Trail at Bottle Beach State Park
Bottle Beach State Park (parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/bottle-beach-state-park) is also worth a stop while you are in the Westport area. It’s just a short drive down Highway 105, about eight miles east of Westport. And it’s easy to find too, as it located right off the highway.
There’s accessible parking near the accessible vault toilet, and level access over to the .7-mile trail. The trail begins as a boardwalk through the wetlands, which was formerly the site of the boomtown of Ocosto. Originally the railroad terminus, the town later failed and subsequently became known as Bottle Beach, because of the trash left behind by the residents. Today, there’s nary a trace of the old town; however this site is an excellent birding venue. Be on the lookout for chickadees, warblers, wrens, woodpeckers and finches as you make your way along the trail.
After the boardwalk ends, make a right turn and continue on the paved trail to the beach. The trail crosses a bridge, which is also a good place to spot the avian residents. When you reach the beach, make another right to continue on the hard-packed dirt trail through the wetlands. Along the way, you’ll find benches and interpretive plaques, as well as an accessible viewing blind over the marsh.
There’s also a nice ocean view along the way. At the end of the trail is another blind, with benches to sit and take a break. There’s a good view of the beach from the blind, so be on the look for peregrine falcons who like to hunt along the shoreline. This short trail makes for a pleasant stroll, and it’s a must-do for birders.
Viewing Blind at the End of the Trail
Camping Cabins at the Beach
Located about four miles south of Westport, Twin Harbors State Park (parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/twin-harbors-state-park) offers a nice picnic area as well as some wheelchair-accessible camping cabins and a yurt. It’s a nice spot for an alfresco lunch, or the perfect place to bed down for a few nights.
If you’d like to enjoy a picnic there is a small picnic area off of Schafer Road. There’s accessible parking in the lot and level access over to several accessible picnic tables on cement pads. And there’s also an accessible restroom nearby.
Loop A of the campground, which is located off of Highway 105, offers a few accessible overnight options that don’t involve pitching a tent. At the top of the list are five wheelchair-accessible camping cabins. Each cabin includes a level entrance and good maneuvering space, and is furnished with a queen-sized futon, a bunk bed with a single on top and a double on the the bottom, a table with four chairs and and end table. The cabins also include a heater, and outside they each have an accessible picnic table and a fire grill. They also all have a nice front porch.
Cabin 1 at Twin Harbors State Park
Yurt 203 is also a wheelchair-accessible choice. It has level access and is furnished with a queen-sized futon, and a bunk with a double on top and a twin on the bottom. And like the cabins it also has an accessible table and grill in front. Additionally, there’s a nearby concrete pad with a hookup for a RV that can be reserved for an extra fee.
Yurt 203 at Twin Harbors State Park
Top it off with an accessible shower house with a toilet with grab bars and a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, a lowered showerhead and grab bars, and you have all the comforts of home.
This comfy cottage (#1) features ramp access, wide doorways and good maneuvering space. The main room is furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame bed with wheelchair access on the right side (which can be moved a tad for left side access), a 20-inch high twin daybed, two side tables, and a comfy electric fireplace. There’s a dining table by the front window with a perfect marina view, and a full kitchen including a stove microwave, refrigerator and a dishwasher. Add in all the dishes and utensils you could possibly need, and you’re all set.
There’s a wide sliding door to the roomy bathroom, which has a full five-foot turning radius. It’s outfitted with a large roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Add in a toilet with grab bars on the the back and right walls (as seated) and also a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror, and you have a nicely accessible bathroom.
There are also two deck chairs that you can take outside to enjoy the marina view. And it’s a fabulous view, with fisherman filing in every morning, and then returning in the late afternoon. Add in a dog or two to assist them, and a few fish jumping out of the water and you have the quintessential waterfront view. It’s the perfect spot to relax at the end of the day, or to enjoy your coffee in the morning. With all the comforts of home, this wheelchair-accessible cottage is an ideal choice for a comfortable and accessible Westport getaway.
Westport Marina Cottages (#1)
Kitchen Area in Cottage 1
Kitchen Area in Cottage 1
Living Space and Bedroom in Cottage 1
Living Space and Bedroom in Cottage 1
Sink and Toilet in Cottage 1
Sink and Toilet in Cottage 1
Shower in Cottage 1
Shower in Cottage 1
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Power beach wheelchairs at Coronado Beach in San Diego, California
If a trip to a California beach is in your future, then check out this list of loaner California beach wheelchairs at www.coastal.ca.gov/access/beach-wheelchairs.html#text. Compliments of the California Coastal Commission. the list is organized by county, and it contains contact information and some brief details about the wheelchairs available. Although there’s no charge to borrow the beach wheelchairs, customers are usually asked to leave a drivers license as a deposit. The beach wheelchairs are most commonly found at life guard stands or at entrance kiosks. As always, it’s best to call in advance, just to make sure you don’t need to make advance arrangements, especially on busy holiday weekends.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Parks Road Trips Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Trails Without Limits in Westchester County, New York allows slow walkers and wheelchair-users to explore the county parks on guided track chair hikes. The program runs from March to November and the venue changes each month. Volunteers lead participants on a one to two-mile guided hike through one of the scenic county parks. The track chair allows users to easily wheel over rough terrain and other obstacles that would be impassable in a standard wheelchair.
There’s no charge for the hikes, but participants must complete a registration form online at www.thewpf.org/trailswithoutlimits. Family and friends are also invited to attend. It’s important to note that the staff and volunteers who lead the hikes are not allowed to help with transfers; so if you cannot transfer to the track chair independently, you must provide your own assistance. And if you’d prefer to cycle though the parks, Trails Without Limits also offers bicycle rides with handcycles. Either option is a great way to get out and enjoy the Westchester County Parks.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located in Southwest Virginia, the Crooked Road (thecrookedroadva.com) is more than just a driving route. This 330-mile heritage music trail winds through the Appalachian Mountains and connects major music venues and heritage sites which highlight the traditional music of the region. Along the way you’ll find stage shows, outdoor concerts, festivals and jam sessions.
Fiddler on The Pickin’ Porch
That said, the music is only half the draw. As one local banjo player noted, “Music is a living tradition here. It evolves as people evolve. Folks come here to experience this living heritage and to meet the people involved in it.” So in the end, the Crooked Road is just as much about the people as it is about the music. And not only is it a great spot to hop off-the-beaten-path and experience some local culture, but it also boasts a number of wheelchair-accessible sites.
A Great Road Trip!
Although you can hop on the Crooked Road just about anywhere along the route, a good starting point is at its eastern terminus – Rocky Mount. And it’s conveniently located just 25 miles south of Roanoke. From there, just take VA 40 west towards Ferrum and follow the Crooked Road signs. Not only is this the easiest access point, but Ferrum makes a great first stop; as the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum (www.ferrum.edu/brim/home) offers a good overview on the regional heritage.
Blue Ridge Institute Heritage Farm Museum
Located on the campus of Ferrum College, the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum features indoor gallery space plus an outdoor heritage farm museum. The gallery space hosts exhibitions which highlight the people and heritage of the region. There is level access to the museum, barrier-free access throughout the exhibits, and plenty of accessible parking outside.
Save some time to look around the Farm Museum, which is located just across the street There are level dirt and gravel pathways throughout this open-air farmstead, with ramps up to the barns and a few steps up into the farmhouse. The pathways are doable for most people in dry weather; and even though you can’t access every display, you can still get a good feel for what Virginia farm life was like back in 1800.
And don’t miss the Blue Ridge Folk Life Festival, held at the Blue Ridge Institute on the fourth Saturday in October. This annual event is billed as the largest celebration of Virginia’s folkways and includes live music, old time food, a quilt show, a moonshiners’ storytelling stage, coon dog contests and a mule jumping contest. It’s a great way to really experience the heritage of the area.
Friday Night at the Rex
No Speed Limit Playing at the Rex Theater
Located about 60 miles east of Ferrum, Galax is another must-stop; more specifically it’s a must-stop on a Friday night. Galax is known as the world’s capital of old time mountain music, and on Friday nights everyone heads over to the historic Rex Theater (www.rex.theater) for the weekly installment of Blueridge Backroads Live.
School Children Clogging at the Rex Theater
This entertaining radio show features local musicians, and is broadcast live on WBRF 98.1. It’s kind of the Crooked Road version of the Grand Old Opry. The show features fiddle, mandolin, acoustic guitar, autoharp and banjo music along with local dancers. The wheelchair access at the Rex is good too, as even though the theater was built in 1938, it features level access, an accessible unisex family restroom in the lobby, and wheelchair seating. Even better – tickets for the accessible seats can be purchased online.
Birthplace of Country Music
Bristol, which is located just 115 miles west of Galax, is a required stop on any Crooked Road itinerary. Known as the Birthplace of Country Music, it’s where Victor Talking Machine talent scout, Ralph Peer made recordings of local artists like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family in 1927. And with those recordings (known as the Bristol Sessions), he introduced the world to the music of Appalachia.
Bill Monroe’s Mandolin at the Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum
Today, Bristol’s Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum (birthplaceofcountrymusic.org) focuses on the history of country music, with emphasis on the period after the Bristol Sessions. This unique museum contains exhibits about the roots of country music and the musicians that helped shape the genre, including an extensive exhibit about Tennessee Ernie Ford, Bristol’s native son. It’s a good primer on the music, and it helps put the whole Crooked Road experience in the proper perspective. Access is excellent throughout the museum, with a level entrance and barrier-free access to all the exhibits.
The Bristol Mural
There’s plenty of live music to be had in Bristol too, with weekly concerts at the Birthplace of Country Music Mural. And as far as access goes, there is good wheelchair-access to the seating area at the mural.
White Top Mountain at The Carter Family Fold
Then on Saturday night, be sure and head to the Carter Family Fold (carterfamilyfold.org), which is located in Hiltons, about 20 minutes from Bristol. The AP and Sara Carter homestead is home to a long standing weekly concert, where only acoustic instruments are allowed and no alcohol is served. There’s accessible parking near the entrance and accessible seating up front. It’s truly a Crooked Road highlight.
A Man And His Music
Ralph Stanley Museum
No Crooked Road trip is complete with out a visit to the Ralph Stanley Museum (ralphstanleymuseum.com) located in Clintwood, near the western terminus of the route. Also known as the “Man of Constant Sorrow”, Ralph achieved national fame when he recorded the soundtrack for O Brother Where Art Thou.
Although stairs grace the front entrance of the museum, there is level access in back, near the accessible parking. Inside there’s elevator access to all floors, accessible restrooms, and barrier-free access to all the exhibits. The museum gives a good history of Ralph Stanley and traditional mountain music through interactive displays, audio and video clips and personal memorabilia.
Local Musicians Jamming at the Ralph Stanley Museum
But the exhibits are only half the draw of the museum. Save some time to sit a spell on the front porch and listen to the locals jam. Either way, it’s well worth the trip and the perfect way to end this Virginia road trip.
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips Driving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located on the Orihuela Costa in Spain, this wheelchair-accessible Costa Blanca villa can sleep up to nine people. This Villamartin unit features ramp access, wide doorways and an open floor plan. The accessible bedroom is furnished with a single hospital bed and a portable lift (visitors must provide their own sling). The accessible bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead and a rolling shower-commode chair. The toilet grab bars are attached to the toilet, and there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair around the bathroom.
