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 northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor State Park (parks.nv.gov/parks/lake-tahoe-nevada-state-park) features a string of beaches that line the crystal clear mountain lake. Not only is it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, but thanks to a loaner track chair program, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now explore this scenic Nevada state park.
The Action Trackchair (actiontrackchair.com) available for loan is billed as the “ultimate all terrain wheelchair”. Fitted with tank tracks instead of wheels, it can easily navigate the sandy or even muddy beach terrain with relative ease. And, since this power chair operates with a joystick, it can be operated independently, unlike manual beach wheelchairs.
The Action Trackchair is available for loan on a first-come basis at the park office. Three’s no fee required to use the track chair, but all users must be briefed on the appropriate use of this assistive device and sign a waiver. For more information about the trach chair loaner program, contact the park office at (775) 831-0494.
So get out and enjoy the Lake Tahoe beach independently this summer, and borrow a track chair at Sand Harbor State Park.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Although there’s no shortage of fun attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, sometimes it’s nice to take a break from the city. Fortunately these popular tourist hubs are just a stone’s throw away from the incredibility scenic Great Smoky Mountains National Park (www.nps.gov/grsm/). The good news is, even though this Appalachian gem is America’s most visited national park, there’s still plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a quiet slice of Mother Nature. So pack a picnic lunch and plan a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy a wheelchair-accessible Smoky Mountain day trip
Get Your Bearings
Getting to the park is easy. From Pigeon Forge, just follow Highway 321 south to Gatlinburg, then head west on Highway 441. And once you get to the park, make sure your first stop is Sugarlands Visitor Center.
There’s plenty of accessible parking in front, with level access over to the main building, and to the accessible restrooms on the far side. Inside there’s ample room to maneuver a wheelchair through the small museum and bookstore, and to the ranger information desk. There’s also level access and accessible seating in the theater, where a 20-minute film about the park is shown throughout the day. It’s the perfect place to get a good overview of the park and pick up a few maps. The one thing you won’t find at the Sugarlands Visitor Center — or anywhere else in the park — is a fee collection station, as there is no entrance fee for Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Take a Wheelchair-Accessible Smoky Mountain Hike
Sugarland Valley Nature Trail in Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee
Unfortunately the trail at Sugarlands Visitor Center is not accessible, due to rocks and ruts along the way. That said there is a nicely accessible option just down the road — the Sugarland Valley Nature Trail. It’s located just south of the Sugarlands Visitor Center on the east side of Newfound Gap Road.
This nicely accessible trail was made possible through a public-private partnership, with $60,000 in federal funding and $90,000 in private donations. There’s plenty of accessible parking near the trailhead, and level access over to the paved half-mile loop. Along the way interpretive plaques describe the natural features of this area, which includes a greater variety of salamanders than anywhere else in the world.
It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys and even bear. And there’s even some unintended evidence of the robust bear population, as a bear tracked through the wet concrete when the trail was built. There are also a few rock chimneys from old cabins along the way, and you just can’t beat the view of the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. It’s a nicely shaded walk, so it’s an ideal choice for a hot day.
A Scenic Drive to Remember
Roaring Fork Motor Trail in Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee
Finally, get an entirely different view of the forest on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, located just outside of Gatlinburg. It’s easy to find — just follow Highway 441 east from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, and turn right at Stoplight #8 on Historic Nature Trail (Airport Road). You can’t miss it — Bubba Gump’s is on the corner. Continue along the road till you hit Cherokee Orchard Road. Bear right on Cherokee Orchard Road, which will take you to the one-lane Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
This 5.5-mile loop drive winds through the forest and offers a quiet look at the national park. Pick up a brochure at the beginning of the drive to learn more about the history and ecological diversity of the area. Best of all, RVs and buses are not permitted on this drive, so it’s a great way to dodge the crowds.
The drive begins in a dense hardwood forest filled with chestnuts, oaks, maples and magnolias. The trees arch over the road in places; and in season you’ll even get a glimpse at the tulip trees in bloom. The road passes by 25-foot high Grotto Falls before it transitions into a hemlock forest. Old log cabins dot the landscape, and there’s even a grist mill along the way. Last but not least, the route eases past the “place of a thousands drips”, which becomes a mini-waterfall in wet weather. It’s a very pleasant drive, but it’s important to note that the road is closed in the winter. Additionally, it’s an absolutely gorgeous fall foliage route.
Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America”, Ridgeway State Park (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/ridgway-state-park) is one of Colorado’s often overlooked gems. Located off of Highway 550, about 15 miles south of Montrose, it offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, and borders a five-mile stretch of the Uncompahgre River. And the good news is, thanks to a bevy of accessible trails, a loaner track wheelchair, a water wheelchair and even a wheelchair-accessible paddleboard, it’s now possible to plan a wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park getaway. Top it off with spending a night or two in a wheelchair-accessible yurt, and you have all the ingredients for a perfectly accessible outdoor excursion.
Explore the Forest
One of the largest areas of the park, Dutch Charlie, is the perfect spot to enjoy a wheelchair-accessible Ridgeway State Park visit. It includes the visitor center, several accessible trails, an accessible beach area, and a campground.
There’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, which is located just off of Highway 550. The visitor center features level access to a variety of interpretive exhibits, a ranger information desk and accessible restrooms.
Overlook Trail at Ridgway State Park
There are two accessible trails near the visitor center. The Overlook is a short 600-foot paved trail that leads over to a vantage point that offers a good view of the Ridgway Reservoir. The Forest Discovery Trail also begins near the visitor center. This .6-mile hard-packed dirt loop is wide and fairly level; however there are some rough spots and ruts along the way. Additionally it can get pretty muddy after a storm, but it’s usually passable in a loaner track chair.
Forest Discovery Trail at Ridgway State Park
Two loaner track chairs are available at the visitor center, however advance reservations are required. Staff members are not allowed to assist with transfers to the track chair; and a park volunteer must accompany all track chair-users on their excursions. The excursions can include the Forest Discovery Trail, as well as several other trails in the park. Track chairs must be reserved at least one week in advance on the park website, or by calling (970) 626-5822. It’s a great way for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore the park, but plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Bluebird on the Discovery Forest Trail at Ridgway State Park
Hit the Beach
Mobi-mat at Mears Bay BeachBeach at Ridgway State Park
If you prefer the beach to the forest, them head on over to Mear’s Bay, which is just a short drive from the visitor center. There’s accessible parking near the marina, with level access over to the office and the accessible picnic tables on the adjacent deck There’s also ramp access down to the beach, which has a 300-foot Mobi-Mat to the water.
If you’d like to go into the water, a loaner MobiChair is available to use at the Mears Bay swimming beach. This floating wheelchair can travel over the sand or on the Mobi-Mats and go into the water. It is not self propelling, so users need someone to push the MobiChair.
And for more water fun, check out the loaner SOLFiesta wheelchair-accessible paddleboard. This massive paddleboard measures 15 feet six inches long by five feet six inches wide. There are tie-downs for a wheelchair in front, and room for a passenger behind it. And there’s still plenty of room in back for the requisite guide who maneuvers the paddleboard.
There’s no charge to use the Mobi Chair or the accessible paddleboard, but advance reservations are a must. They can be made on the park website or by calling (970) 626-5822. And just like the track chair reservations, they must be made at least a week in advance.
Finally, if you’d like a short walk while you’re in the area, then check out the Mears Bay Trail. This one-mile paved trail has a maximum grade of 4% , and runs alongside the lake. It’s not really too scenic in dry years when the lake is low, but if it’s a normal rainfall year it’s very pleasant.
Spend the Night
Yurt 10 in Dakota Terraces Campground at Ridgway State Park
Top off your wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park adventure with an overnight stay in the park. Book a night or two at the accessible yurt in the Dakota Terraces Campground, which is located midway between Mear’s Bays and the visitor center,
Accessible yurt 10 is located in Loop A of the campground. This round canvas structure offers accessible parking in front, with a paved pathway to the front porch. Access features include a threshold ramp, a wide entrance door, and good pathway access throughout the yurt.
The yurt is furnished with two queen futons (bring your own bedding), a bunk bed and a table and chairs. The kitchenette has a small counter, and it includes a microwave and a refrigerator. And although there isn’t a bathroom in the yurt, it does have electricity, an overhead light and a stove for heat. Outside, there is an accessible picnic table, a grill on a cement pad, and a 15-inch high tent platform.
Inside Yurt 10
An accessible restroom is located next door, with accessible parking in front of the building. Accessible pay showers are available in the camper services building near the beginning of Loop A.
Toilet and Showers in the Camper Services Building
So save the trouble of pitching a tent and give yurting a try for a night – or two – in Ridgway State Park. It’s a comfortable and affordable way to extend your visit to wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Although the Enchanted Highway sounds like a scene straight from the pages of a Lewis Carroll tome, in reality it’s a sculpture-dotted scenic byway located smack dab in the middle of rural North Dakota. And it’s definitely worth a short detour on any trek through the Peace Garden State.
The brainchild of local resident, Gary Greff, this project began on one of Greff’s treks through South Dakota. He spotted a crude sculpture of a farmer with a makeshift hay bale alongside the road, and noticed that people stopped to photograph the creation. That was Greff’s “Eureka moment”. He figured that if he created a whole highway full of sculptures, then tourists would visit his hometown of Regent. And he figured the best way to do that was to make the sculptures larger then life. To that end he enlisted the help of local farmers who were masters at welding, and he set out to create the giant metal sculptures that dot the Gladstone-Regent Highway, off Interstate 94, just east of Dickinson.
The route can be taken as a side trip off the interstate, or used as a one-way north or south route as an alternative to Highway 85. It’s just 32 miles long, but allow for time to stop and enjoy Greff’s colorful creations that all depict some aspect of prairie life. And the good news is, you don’t even have to get our of your vehicle to enjoy the sculptures. That said, all of the sites (except Whirly Gigs) have level parking in dirt lots, and standard picnic tables in level areas. So pack along a picnic lunch, and prepare to linger on and enjoy the artistic creations along the Enchanted Highway.
Geese in Flight – Mile 0
Geese in Flight on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
The first sculpture you’ll come across is Geese in Flight; in fact this piece marks the northern entrance to the Enchanted Highway at exit 72 off of Interstate 94. To be honest this piece is best seen from afar, so head south at the exit, and then pull over on the dirt road on the west side of the road. From there you’ll spot the sculpture, which depicts a flock geese flying around what appears to be a setting sun.
Deer Crossing – Mile 3
Deer Crossing on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
Next up is Deer Crossing, which is located just past Gladstone on the west side of the road. This massive piece depicts a pair of deer jumping over a fence, and measures in at a whopping 50 feet in height. As an added bonus, a small Maze of Enchantment is located near the sculpture. There’s level access to this easy maze, which features pathways that are wide and level for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. There’s fun for the whole family at this stop!
Grasshopper in the Field – Mile 15
Grasshopper in the Field on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
What collection of prairie-themed sculptures would be complete without a few grasshoppers? To that end Grasshopper in the Field — which is located 12 miles south of Deer Crossing — certainly solidifies the theme. This piece features one large grasshopper with several juveniles in a wheat field. Better yet, they are all surrounded by a cute little wheat picket fence. Greff got creative in the design phase of this piece, as he collected grasshoppers one summer and froze them for models. He wanted to make sure he got the colors just right, and he did a great job. A jungle gym and a few whimsical grasshopper bouncy toys round out this creative installation.
Fisherman’s Dream – Mile 19
Fisherman’s Dream on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
Fisherman’s Dream, which is located four miles down the road, depicts a scene only an avid fisherman can really appreciate. The sculpture includes a pond complete with cat tails and a large underwater fish population, with a fisherman trolling in a small boat on the surface. A larger-than-life rainbow trout is literally jumping out of the water in pursuit of a circling dragonfly, just off the bow of the boat. And an empty-handed fisherman just stands there awestruck. The giant trout is so large that its tail curls around the other fish and rests the bottom of the pond. Considering the epic proportions of the fish, this piece is definitely well named.
Pheasants on the Prairie – Mile 24
Pheasants on the Prairie on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
Just five miles down the road, you can’t miss Pheasants on the Prairie. which features mom, dad and three juvenile birds. They’re doing what pheasants do best — sit in the field. The birds are more than just one-dimensional stick figures though, as they’re fashioned out of a metal frame, covered with screen, and painted in realistic pheasant colors. It’s a striking scene.
Teddy Rides Again – Mile 26
Teddy rides Again on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
In true North Dakota fashion, Teddy Roosevelt is featured in the next piece, which is located just two miles south of the pheasant family. The sculpture, which depicts the profile of the former president on a bucking horse, was chosen by the Enchanted Highway Committee and designed by the North Dakota University Art Department. There’s also a small stagecoach on a level area in front of the sculpture, for kids — or adults — to climb in and explore.
Tin Family – Mile 30
The Tin Family on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
The Tin Family, which depicts a typical prairie farm family, is located four miles south of Teddy and his mount. Local farmers donated the tanks from which the family was crafted, and supplied the manpower to weld them all together. Mom is outfitted in her dress and carrying a basket of flowers, dad is clad in his overalls with pitchfork in hand, and junior is dressed in jeans and a jersey with a firm grip on his lollipop. And in true prairie style, they are bordered by a quaint white picket fence. Not only is this the first sculpture that was constructed along the route, but it’s also a local favorite.
Whirly Gigs – Mile 32
Whirly Gigs on the Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
The Enchanted Highway ends two miles south on the main drag in Regent, with the only kinetic sculpture in the collection — Whirly Gigs. At first glance the frame house looks like a static piece; but once you press the green button it all comes to life. The kids jump on the second-floor bed, while another pair of youngsters splash in the upstairs tub, and mom rolls out some dough in the kitchen downstairs while dad reclines in his favorite chair. The sculpture is located next door to the Enchanted Highway Gift Shop, which has several stairs up to the entrance. There’s level street parking on the road nearby and a steep curb-cut up to the sculpture. Still, you can appreciate this — or any piece along the Enchanted Highway — from afar; so don’t hesitate to enjoy this artistic detour on your next road trip
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Located just west of Spokane, Way Out West Statue Farm is worth a stop on any Interstate 90 road trip. Owned by two brothers who relocated from downtown Spokane, this rural property allows them plenty of room for expansion. You get your first glance of the property on the north frontage road while driving east on Interstate 90. Fortunately it’s not hard to backtrack. Just take the next exit (272), cross the freeway, then head west on the frontage road. The parking lot is not paved and it has gravel to fill in the low spots, so it’s not that great for most wheelchairs. That said, the whole area where the metallic works of art are displayed is level. The pathways are narrow and not paved, but it’s still a great choice for slow walkers. But if you have a little help it may also work for some wheelchairs.
The selection of yard art is second-to-none at the Way out West Statue Farm. You’ll find a little bit of everything, from signs and metal sculptures to small decorations and larger works of art. A chicken here, an alligator there, flamingos planted in the flowerbeds and a cactus or two are just a few examples of the offerings; but trust me, there’s much more. Everything is for sale, but browsers are also welcome. There are no pushy salespeople there; in fact if you want to buy something you’ll have to flag down one of the owners who are usually roaming the grounds in golf carts. If you can’t find them, then just ask — the other tenants are usually out and about and they will go and fetch them for your. As one friendly guy told me “It’s part of our job”. Either way it’s a fun stop, and I came home with a cool “welcome rooster”. And had a wonderful conversation with the owner, who wanted to make sure the rooster was going to a good home. This fun roadside attraction is also worth a revisit, as the selection constantly changes, but the owners are always friendly. And don’t miss their trademark alien spaceship.
Located in the middle of Lake Superior in Isle Royale National Park, Rock Harbor Lodge (www.rockharborlodge.com/) is probably the most difficult national park lodge to get to, as it’s a six-hour cruise from the mainland. That said the journey over is a scenic adventure itself, and the Ranger III ferry has wheelchair access to the lower deck and an accessible restroom aboard (www.nps.gov/isro/planyourvisit/ranger-iii-info.htm). And once you dock at Isle Royale National Park, you’ll be rewarded with the rugged beauty at this remote retreat. Even though the island itself is rather rustic, Rock Harbor Lodge offers spacious rooms for a comfortable and relaxing Isle Royale wheelchair-accessible retreat.
An Isle Royale Wheelchair-Accessible Room with a View
Entry to room 35 at Rock Harbor Lodge
Located along the Lake Superior shore, Rock Harbor Lodge is a .3-mile walk from the boat dock. There’s a paved level path alongside the marina, but golf cart transportation is available for guests who cannot manage the distance. And although there are a few steps up to the front door of the main office at the lodge, the back entrance is ramped.
There are three wheelchair-accessible rooms at Rock Harbor lodge, including room 35 which is located in the Chippewa Building, right behind the main office. There’s ramp access to the front door, with enough space for a wheelchair to maneuver inside the room. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles, a lowered clothing rod and low-pile carpet for easy rolling.
Room 35 at Rock Harbor Lodge
The room is furnished with a 26-inch high open-frame double bed with wheelchair access on the right side (as you face it), a night table, a desk with a chair, a small chest of drawers, and a table with two chairs. The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a tub/shower combination with grab bars. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink with an angled mirror. A portable shower bench is available, but make sure to request one when you make your reservation, so it will be in your room when you arrive.
Bathroom in room 35 at Rock Harbor Lodge
There’s also barrier-free access to the roomy back porch, which is furnished with two Adirondack chairs. Truly one of the best features of this corner room is its location, as the porch allows for an unobstructed view of the waves crashing on the rocks below, and a peek at the barrier-islands across the harbor. It’s definitely an Isle Royale wheelchair-accessible room with a view.
Back porch in room 35 at Rock Harbor Lodge
Eat Drink and Be Merry
There’s good access to the public facilities at this Isle Royale retreat as well. An accessible dirt pathway leads from the accessible room over to the Lighthouse Restaurant and the Greenstone Grill, which are located next to the main office. The grill offers bar service and a light menu of burgers, sandwiches and pizzas; while the restaurant serves up some hearty entrees. There’s barrier-free access to both establishments; but if you’d prefer a bit more privacy you can always order a pizza to go and enjoy it on your back porch.
There’s also ramp access up to the Rock Harbor Auditorium, where evening ranger programs are presented. The dirt path over to the ramp is a little bumpy, but it’s doable with a little assistance.
And although the bulk of the island has inaccessible trails, the cement walkway along the marina offers some good wildlife viewing opportunities. Even though this walkway is well trafficked, it’s not unusual to spot moose along the trail. Even if you don’t happen to see them, the lake view itself is stunning. And that’s reason enough to stay a spell at this remote but pristine national park lodge.
The Overson’s wheelchair-accessible Lake Namakagon cabin
Located in Northern Wisconsin, this wheelchair-accessible Lake Namakagon cabin (vrbo.com/1146321) is the perfect choice for avid fishermen, folks who enjoy water sports, or anyone who just wants to soak in the scenic beauty of the area. As an added bonus, this comfortable home is owned by two people who intimately understand access issues – Susan and Mark Overson. Mark, who uses a manual wheelchair, enjoys the great outdoors, and enthusiastically encourages other wheelers to do the same. Of course the Oversons absolutely love their lakeside retreat, but they are equally excited about being able to offer it to others who have mobility issues.
A Cabin on the Lake
Pathway to Lake Namakagon
As a result of their extensive experience, the Oversons did an excellent job equipping their wheelchair-accessible Lake Namakagon cabin. There’s level access up to the front door, with wide doorways and barrier-free access throughout the home. The open floor plan includes a living room with a fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, a master suite with a bath, two additional bedrooms, another bathroom and a sun porch that doubles as a bedroom.
Master Bedroom at the Overson’s Lake Namakagon Cabin
The master bedroom is furnished with an adjustable 20-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. There’s barrier-free access to the adjacent master bathroom, which is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. The toilet has grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and the spacious bathroom can accommodate even the largest wheelchair or scooter.
Master Bathroom at the Overson’s Lake Namakagon Cabin
The other two bedrooms are furnished with a 22-inch high full-sized bed, and a 20-inch high trundle bunk bed. Additionally, the sun room has an adjustable queen bed.
There’s level access out to the laundry room, which is equipped with a washer and a dryer. A large garage is also attached to the cabin, and as an added bonus it has a heated floor, which is a great feature for a year-round retreat in this area.
Outside, the patio is furnished with some Adirondack chairs and a gas grill. And then there’s the lake, which is located down an accessible path from the back door. There is also an accessible fire pit along the way to the dock, and a picnic table near the cabin. It’s a very comfortable and accessible cabin, with a location that you just can’t beat.
The Little Extras
Susan definitely provides her guests with important details about things to do in the area, including a binder filled with access information. And what’s not to love about a place that has an accessible travel book in the library? And of course Susan knows the local area, so if you need any additional information, feel free to ask.
If you’d like to do a little paddling while you’re staying at this wheelchair-accessible Lake Namakagon cabin, there’s also a selection of kayaks and life vests in the garage. Mark chose ocean kayaks for their stability, and he has a tandem one that will work for people with limited upper body strength.
The Oversons also have a standard pontoon boat available for rent. You can just roll on to it from the dock, then take it out and drop anchor and wait for the fish to bite. There are two fishing chairs in the front, or you can fish from your wheelchair.
And if you visit during the winter, then give Mark’s accessible ice fishing house a try. It features a back wall that folds down and acts as a ramp, three fishing holes and a propane heater. After you are safe and secure inside, the back ramp can be folded back up so you can fish in heated comfort. Best of all, they have folks who will tow it out on the lake and set it up, supply the bait and the fishing gear, and even clean your catch. It’s the easy — and accessible — way to enjoy ice fishing.
Road trips are an excellent vacation choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. They offer the freedom to motor through the countryside at your own pace, and stop whenever you want. There’s no tour group to keep up with, no mandatory stops at oddball attractions, and no worries about personality conflicts with other tour participants. You can go wherever you want, and do whatever you choose on a road trip. Additionally, road trips are a great way to explore small towns that are often overlooked on large group tours. Of course road tips require some serious planning and advance research, so here are some tips to help you plan a wheelchair accessible road trip (emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-road-trip-tips/)
Half the fun of a road trip is stopping at quirky roadside attractions along the way. It’s a great way to take a break, get off the highway and get some fresh air. And although you’ll probably not find these fun and funky stops splattered across the pages of high end travel magazines, they are all great spots to take a break and enjoy the local color. So here’s a fun assortment of wheelchair-accessible roadside attractions to consider for your next getaway.
Road trips are an excellent vacation choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Not only can you take things at your own pace on a road trip, but you can also map out a custom itinerary that includes accessible attractions, rest stops and lodging choices. Plus you can pack along all of your equipment, and you don’t have to worry about wheelchair damage by airline baggage handlers.
Additionally, a wheelchair-accessible road trip is are a great way to explore small towns that are often overlooked on large group tours. And although some small towns may lack accessible facilities, that’s not the case across the board. With that in mind, here are 36 towns across America that have wheelchair accessible lodgings, attractions and even trails. Some are along less traveled byways, some are near national parks, and some are located on popular road trip routes; however they’re all worthy of consideration on your next road trip adventure. So add them to your itinerary on your next wheelchair-accessible road trip.
As you walk under the entry arch and peel back the heavy brocade curtains at the El Morocco Inn & Spa (www.elmoroccoinn.com), you’re instantly transported to another world – one that’s filled with the sights, sounds and even the smells of Morocco. From the bright blue doors and the massive ceramic pots throughout the courtyard, to the smell of incense wafting on the desert breeze, and strains of Moroccan music in the background, you definitely get that “I’m not in Kansas any more” feeling as you enter this sanctuary.
And that’s exactly the reaction that Bruce Abney wants all of his guests to have – he wants everyone to have an amazing experience at his little piece of Morocco in the middle of Desert Hot Springs. And the good news is, Bruce’s desert oasis is also accessible for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
A Man with a Vision
Hot Spring Soaking Pool
Built in the late 1950s the El Morocco Inn was originally known as the Caravan Spa-tel. The property thrived in the 50s and 60s, when Desert Hot Springs was known as “California’s Spa City”. Visitors traveled for miles to soak in the healing waters. Unfortunately, many of the resorts closed over the years — including the Caravan Spa-tel — because of the high cost of maintaining the hot springs. Bruce stepped into the picture in 2001, when he purchased the property and proceeded to transform it into a Moroccan paradise.
As a child, Bruce was intrigued by the El Morocco Hotel in Las Vegas, so when the Caravan Spa-tel renovations began, that Las Vegas property became his inspiration. He also immensely enjoyed his own journey to Morocco, and he wanted to create that feeling of “being a million miles away from home” for his guests. And he wanted something authentic, so he purchased handwoven fabrics from Moroccan co-ops, and filled the property with goatskin wrapped lights and hanging lamps that cast mesmerizing geometric shadows. “Even the tent in the Spa Garden is the real deal, as are the little touches like the succulent dates available in the Kasbah Lounge,” says Bruce.
As for his inclusive attitude and his decision to add top-drawer access features to this 13-room property, Bruce chalks it all up to “good hospitality”. “I had to ask myself ‘Did I want to share this experience with as many folks as possible who might enjoy it?,’” says Bruce. “The answer back to myself was a heartfelt yes, so I decided to go all out,” he adds. So although the inn itself has the look and feel of a Marrakech riad, it also has first-rate access features for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
An Accessible Oasis
Door to room 107
El Morocco’s access begins in the parking lot, with accessible parking and level access to the front door. Inside there’s barrier-free access to the front desk, and ramp access into the courtyard. Accessible room 107 is located on the opposite side of the courtyard. And In keeping with the Moroccan theme, the room is a patchwork of vivid colors, with a sheer canopy with tassel accents hanging above the bed.
Access features include ramp access, wide doorways, lever handles and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 27-inch high open-frame king-sized bed with wheelchair access on the right side (as you face it), but there’s plenty of room for it to be moved over if you require wheelchair access on the left side. Other furnishings include two night tables, a chair, a wardrobe, a chest of drawers, a mini-fridge and a microwave.
Room 107 at the El Morocco InnBathroom in Room 107 at the El Morocco Inn
A wide sliding barn door leads into the spacious bathroom, which has a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a custom-built roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a portable shower bench. There’s also a set of fold-down grab bars for easier transfers. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink, a lowered mirror and a lowered towel bar. And even with all those access features, the bathroom still retains the Moroccan ambiance with colorful accent pieces.
There’s wheelchair-access to the public spaces as well, including the Kasbah Lounge, the Spa Garden, the outdoor showers and the public restroom. There’s also plenty of room for even the largest wheelchair or scooter to maneuver around the lift-equipped mineral pool, and over to the fire pit.
But Wait – There’s More
Spa Garden at the El Morocco Inn
In the end, it’s the little extras that make for a memorable getaway, and the El Morocco Inn has no shortage of those. At the top of the list is breakfast. Although it’s called a Continental breakfast, I’d actually describe it as a Continental-plus affair. Each morning the Kasbah Lounge is filled with fresh fruit, juices, freshly baked goodies, hard-boiled eggs and all the accompaniments to put together a luscious — and filling — meal. And the pièce de résistance? French press coffee. Guests can either choose to enjoy their repast at one of the courtyard tables, or in their own rooms.
Even the spa treatments have a taste of Morocco – minus the overzealous exfoliation treatments found in the hammams. Guests can choose from a variety of massages and body treatments including a Moroccan clay body mask, which uses Moroccan Rhassoul clay. Known for its ability to stimulate cell renewal, this treatment revitalizes and softens the skin.
And last but not least, there’s the library – a little nook located next to the Kasbah Lounge. Filled with books and DVDs to borrow, it’s a cozy spot to retreat and relax. Alternatively, you can watch that Bogart classic, Casablanca, which plays on a continuous loop throughout the day. A subtle nod to El Morocco’s roots, the film also creates the perfect ambiance for this wheelchair-accessible oasis in the California desert.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
