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.
Peer-to-peer vehicle rentals are an up-and-coming concept. Some call it car sharing, while others refer to it as the Airbnb of car rentals. The big question is, will it work for wheelchair-users who need adapted vehicles?
The premise is pretty simple. A company contracts with individual owners to rent out their vehicles, offers them to the public, and then gives the owners the lion’s share of the profits. The customers get a reliable rental at a bargain price, and the owners get some cash in their pockets. It’s a win-win for everyone. But is it a realistic option for wheelchair-users?
Turo
Let’s start by looking at one of the leading providers of peer-to-peer vehicle rentals in the US – Turo (https://turo.com). I’ve never used them, but a friend made some extra money by renting her adapted van through them. The rental vehicle requirements are pretty simple.
All Turo Vehicles must:
Be less than 12 years old
Have less than 130,000 miles
Be fully insured
Owners get about 70% of the rental rates, which are about a third of the going rates for accessible vehicles in the US. And of course location is king. My friend lived near the Miami airport, so she did pretty well.
But what about renting an adapted van? Well they do have a filter to find adapted vehicles, but you have to do a city search first. The filter is to the far left, under “all filters”. If you search a major city, you will probably find at least one adapted vehicle, but they are not as available as standard vehicles in smaller cities and towns.
The good news is, there are lots of photos of the adapted vehicles, so you will have a good idea of what features they have. In short, it’s a good economical alternative for major airports in the US. But once you get out of the big cities, the availability of adapted vehicles drops to almost zero. And hey, if you have an adapted vehicle that you don’t use every day, you might consider offering it to Turo as a rental.
The French Approach
The French have an entirely different approach to adapted vehicles as far as peer-to-peer vehicle rentals are concerned. They have a whole company that is entirely dedicated to peer-to-peer adaptive vehicle rentals. It’s called Wheeliz (https://www.wheeliz.com/), and it’s headquartered in Paris. And according to their website they are the first peer-to-peer car rental program for wheelchair-users.
Their concept is pretty simple, and much like Turo. People register their cars on the Wheeliz website, where users search for rentals. When a match is made, the user picks up the vehicle at an appointed place and payment is made through the Wheeliz website. The owner is later paid a percentage of the rental rate.
You can choose from a ramped van or a vehicle with adaptive driving features. And there are plenty of photos, and lots of information about each vehicle, so you really know what you are renting.
The great thing about Wheeliz is that it really seems to be catching on. Of course there’s no shortage of rentals in Paris, but I searched in several rural locations, and many small cities, and still found a good selection of vehicles. And they were all at bargain prices – about 65 Euros for an adapted van.
So hopefully the Wheeliz model will catch on over in the states, but if you’re traveling to France I would most definitely check them out. Not only is it a more economical alternative, but it also benefits someone with a disability. It’s a great idea!
The Pine Leaf Boys perform at the New Orleans Jazz Fest
The 2026 New Orleans Jazz Fest is scheduled to run from April 23 to May 3, 2026. Live music will be presented on April 23 – 26 and April 30 – May 3 at the Fair Grounds Race Course, which is located about 10 minutes from the French Quarter. This massive venue features multiple stages that offer continuous music from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. And the good news is, wheelchair access at the New Orleans Jazz Fest has not been overlooked.
Music at the festival ranges from jazz, blues and zydeco to folk, rock and rap. There’s even a kid’s tent for the little ones. And as more musicians stream into New Orleans, you’ll find more street performers in the French Quarter. In short, everywhere you look there’s music.
There’s also a large variety of food vendors at Jazz Fest, who feature everything from crawfish and alligator to vegetarian plates and even the standard burgers and brews. And don’t miss the crafts area, where artisans from around the world demonstrate and sell their wares.
For more information about the complete entertainment lineup or to buy tickets for this years Jazz Fest, visit www.nojazzfest.com. And for information on specific access features at this annual event, check out the information below.
Getting There
At the top of the list for wheelchair access at the New Orleans Jazz Fest is getting there. Accessible parking is available near the main gate on Gentilly Boulevard. There is a $65 per day fee for parking on Thursdays and Fridays, and a $75 fee on Saturday and Sundays for these limited accessible spaces. They are only available to folks with a valid accessible placard or plates, and the person who owns the plates or placard must be in the vehicle. These accessible spaces are available on a first-come basis, and credit cards are the only accepted method of payment.
If you’d prefer to let someone else do the driving, then buy a ticket on the Jazz Fest Express (www.graylineneworleans.com/jazz-fest-express/), which is operated by Gray Line Tours. The buses run continuously from the Sheraton Hotel on Canal Street, the Hyatt on Loyola, the Wisner Boulevard parking lot at City Park (5700 Wisner Boulevard) and the Steamboat Natchez Wharf in the French Quarter. They drop passengers off at the main gate on Gentilly Boulevard, which is the accessible entrance. Not all of the buses are lift-equipped, so alert the attendant if you need accessible transportation.
Accessible public transportation to the Jazz Fest is also available on RTA buses (www.norta.com/ride-with-us/know-before-you-go/transit-accessibility) and on the red streetcar line. Alternatively, you may be able to arrange for accessible transportation through RTA ADA Office (504-827-8345); however advance reservations are a must and the demand is usually quite high during Jazz Fest. This option is only available if you are unable to ride public transportation due to a disability. A valid paratransit card is also required.
Jazz Fest Access Center
Jazz Fest Access Center
The Jazz Fest Access Center is also an integral part of wheelchair access at the New Orleans Jazz Fest. It’s conveniently located in front of the grandstand. That’s where you can pick up an access map of the grounds, which includes the accessible routes, viewing areas and the locations of the accessible porta-potties (www.nojazzfest.com/downloads/2025_Jazz-Fest-ADA-Map.pdf).
The festival grounds are comprised of a variety of surfaces, including grass fields, a dirt track and paved pathways in the infield. Reinforced surfaces are also installed across the dirt track to increase accessibility. The accessible routes are clearly marked, so be on the lookout for these signs. And don’t hesitate to ask the folks in the Access Center if you need any assistance.
The Paralyzed Veterans of America booth is located next to the Access Center. They can provide loaner wheelchairs to folks who can’t manage distances. There’s no charge for the wheelchairs, but donations are always appreciated. They do run out of wheelchairs on busy days, so it’s best to get there early.
Wheelchair-Accessible Seating
Wheelchair Seating at the New Orleans Jazz Fest
The final component of wheelchair access at the New Orleans Jazz Fest is accessible seating, which is available at all the Jazz Fest music venues. General seating for the main stages is located on the lawn area. Concert-goers either bring their own folding chairs, or spread blankets out on the ground.
Accessible seating and parking is also available in the VIP packages (https://www.nojazzfest.com/tickets/), which must be purchased in advance. Accessible seating for the main stages is limited to wheelchair-users and one companion. To be admitted to the accessible seating section, you must have a wristband, which can be obtained at the Access Center.
Accessible seating for wheelchair-users and one companion is also available at all the tent stages and the grandstand stages. And if you need a break from the heat, keep in mind that the grandstand stages also have air conditioning.
It should also be noted that the accessible seating is designated for patrons who use a wheelchair or scooter, and not those with limited mobility, a temporary injury or who are pregnant. The accessible seating rules are enforced, so that people who need these accommodations will have access to them. If a person does not meet the eligibility requirements, they will be removed from the accessible seating area.
Bottom line — access rocks at Jazz Fest. And so does the Jazz Fest staff. If you have any access related questions, just e-mail access@nojazzfest.com or call (504) 410-6104.
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips Driving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Named for the giant Rio Grande bend that carves out its southern border, Big Bend National Park is located more than 100 miles from the nearest freeway, hospital or shopping mall. And spring is the ideal time to visit this remote Texas park, as not only is the desert filled with colorful wildflower blooms, but the temperatures are also fairly mild. And despite its seemingly inhospitable environment, Big Bend also boasts wheelchair-accessible trails, overlooks, scenic drives, and even an accessible overnight lodging option. In short, Big Bend is the perfect road trip stop for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, who want to ditch the crowds and enjoy the wide open spaces of the Lone Star State.
Windshield Views Galore!
Sotol Vista Trail
The best way to enjoy this 800,000-acre expanse is to take a drive, and in that respect the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive tops the list. This 30-mile route leads past the Castolon Historic District and Santa Elena Canyon, and passes through some historic and geologic treasures along the way. The drive takes about 45 minutes one-way, but be sure to allow extra time to stop and admire the scenery.
The drive begins just off the main park road, with a south turn at the Castolon – Santa Elena Junction. There are a number of scenic overlooks along the way, including the Homer Wilson Ranch Overlook and Mule Ears Viewpoint — both of which have accessible parking with barrier-free access out to the viewpoints. The former features views of the old ranch house and surrounding land, while the latter offers the best vantage point for a glance at the iconic Mule Ears rock formation.
Located between those two overlooks, Goat Mountain Viewpoint, features accessible parking, with ramp access out to the overlook; while nearby Sotol Vista offers a panoramic southern view with accessible parking, an accessible vault toilet, and barrier-free access to the overlook.
Last but not least, don’t miss the Santa Elena Overlook at the end of the road. From the overlook you can gaze down at the limestone canyon created by the Rio Grande, and look across into neighboring Mexico. Although there’s no curb-cut access from the parking area to the overlook, you can wheel down to where the curb ends and roll out to the overlook. Even though the ground is a bit bumpy in places, it’s still doable for most people, and the spectacular view is well worth the effort.
Scenic Desert Trails
Window View Trail
Although there’s no shortage of great windshield views in the park, there are also a few accessible trails. Panther Path, which is located next to the Panther Visitor Center offers a short – but accessible – introduction to some of the plants found in the park. Accessible parking is located near the visitor center, with level access over to this short 100 yard sidewalk that’s lined with interpretive plaques that identify desert plants.
A portion of the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail is also a good choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. It’s located in the southeast area of the park, near Boquillas Canyon. The trailhead is actually located in the campground at Rio Grande Village, across from campsite 18. The trail begins with a short dirt path to the quarter-mile boardwalk over the pond. Some folks may need a bit of assistance over the dirt trail, as it’s a bit bumpy, but the floating boardwalk offers excellent access, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. It’s also an excellent birding location.
Sunsets are phenomenal in Big Bend National Park, and there’s no better place to enjoy one than from the Window View Trail (not to be confused with the inaccessible Window Trail). The trailhead is located near the Basin Store at Chisos Mountains Lodge. This .3-mile paved trail takes its name from the “window” opening in the canyon that affords a panoramic view of the valley below. It offers a gradual descent to the window viewpoint, which is a pleasant place to linger and enjoy views of the spectacular canyon walls and the Chisos Mountains. And if you need to stop and rest, there are also a few benches along the route.
Comfy Accommodations
Because of its remote location, an overnight stay in Big Bend National Park is a must; and to that end Chisos Mountain Lodge (www.chisosmountainslodge.com) offers some comfortable accessible rooms. There’s accessible parking in front of the office, with level access to the main lobby through automatic doors. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair over to the front desk and the gift shop. The accessible rooms are located a short drive away in the Casa Grande section of the property.
Accessible parking is located in front of room D2 — an accessible ground floor room – with sidewalk access over to the front door. Access features in room D2 include wide doorways, a lowered peephole, lever handles, good pathway access and tile floors for easy rolling. The room is furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame double bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face the bed). That said, there’s plenty of room to move the bed if you require wheelchair access on the opposite side. Other furnishings include a night stand, two easy chairs, a dresser, a refrigerator and a microwave.
There’s barrier-free access to the bathroom, which features a roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and a portable shower bench is available upon request. A roll-under sink is located in the adjacent sleeping area, in order to free up more room space in the bathroom.
Best of all, this guest room also has level access out to the shared back patio, which is the perfect place to enjoy an sunset, and then take in another one of Big Bend’s natural features – the dark night sky.
(Click image for larger images of Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge)
Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge
Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge (view 2)
Bathroom in Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge
Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Although Memorial Day is celebrated in a variety of ways across the country, the Eastern Sierra town of Bishop marks this traditional beginning of summer with Bishop Mule Days (muledays.org). This annual event, which promotes the heritage, legacy and talents of mules, draws mule teams and spectators from across the west, and offers a week filled with fun, festivities and good old fashioned western entertainment. Although the 2026 event technically runs from May 19 to May 24, the highlights of the festivities are the weekend parade and arena events.
Everyone Loves a Parade
The Bishop Mule Days Parade, which is billed as the world’s longest non-motorized parade, is definitely a crowd favorite. The 2026 parade begins at 10 AM on Saturday May 23 at South and Main Streets, and travels north on Main Street. This festive event features mule teams, horses, wagons, bands and lots of mules with costumed riders. You never know quite what you’ll see, as the popular costume contest has a different theme every year.
Accessible parking for the parade is available in front of the Bishop Dog Park, but it’s best to ask the officer at the Main Street road block to direct you to other accessible parking areas. The good news is that the town is pretty flat, so it’s easy to navigate in a wheelchair. The not so good news is that the parade draws a huge crowd, so accessible parking can be difficult to find. The best plan of action is to arrive early for first crack at the accessible parking spots, then have a leisurely breakfast and stake out a place to watch the parade. It’s an extremely popular event, and many locals even save their spots with chairs as early as Friday afternoon.
The bulk of the other events take place at the Tri-County Fairgrounds over the next two days. Accessible parking is available in the fairgrounds parking lot, and a paved level pathway leads from the parking area, around the mule barns to the grandstand. Accessible seating for up to two people is available in Box 1 in the grandstand, and for groups of three or more in the first rows of Sections A and E. It’s best to call (760) 872-4263 and order your tickets as far in advance as possible. Additionally, it’s extremely important to specify that you need accessible seating when you place your order.
The arena events resemble something akin to a mule rodeo, where the packers show off their skills. The whole event is steeped in tradition, as mule packers are a fixture in the Sierras for back country camping, hunting and rescue operations. There are no money prizes for the winners, but the bragging rights are huge.
The Main Events
A variety of different competitions are held in the arena, but here’s a sampling of some of the events you can expect to see.
Opening Ceremony of the Mule Days Rodeo
Timed Packers Choice
Packers lead their mule strings over and around their choice of obstacles in this timed event. Obstacles range from bridges, gates, water hazards and logs. Packers earn one point for each obstacle they navigate successfully.
Coon Jumping
In this event, handlers encourage their mules to jump over a bar from a standstill. The bar is raised until there is one mule left. The contest takes its name from the practice of jumping mules over fences during coon hunts. There’s always a laugh or two during this contest as some mules are very hesitant to jump.
Individual Packing
A variety of objects, including ice chests, washtubs, pots and pans are laid out on the ground. Packers then pack everything on their two mules, cover the load with a tarp, and attempt to race to the finish line without losing anything.
Run, Ride and Lead
In this fast-paced event packers run to their mules which are located on the opposite side of the arena. Next they ride their mules back to the start, then lead the animals back across the arena. In the end, more than one packer usually ends up on the ground.
Team Pack Scramble
Start of the Team Pack Scramble
One of the highlights of the arena events is the Team Pack Scramble. Packers lead their mule strings into the arena, then unpack and unharness the animals. Cowboys then fire blank shots into the air to disperse the animals. Packers must round up their animals, repack them, assemble their strings, then lead them by horseback out of the arena for a lap around the parking lot. A real crowd pleaser!
Make Plans to Attend!
Although distinctly different from a traditional rodeo, Bishop Mule Days is a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate Memorial Day. Afternoon and evening arena events are held on Saturday and Sunday, and you can get a single ticket or a buy an all-event pass. Get your tickets early though, as this popular event sells out quickly. Don’t miss the 2026 celebration – a tradition in the Eastern Sierras.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Once a standard feature in every downtown business district, neon signs reached their peak in the US from the 1930s to the 1950s. Although you can spot some “neon-esque” copycats today, most modern incarnations use energy-efficient LED lights to mimic the effects of the original light shows. Even though neon technology is technically a thing of the past, you can still get a feel for the history and the glitz of this gaudy signage at two US neon sign museums. One is located at the ground zero capital of gaudy signage, while the other is located in a sleepy little town on the Columbia River. Both are worth a visit, as you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of this artistic vintage signage.
A Sin City Favorite
Las Vegas Neon Museum Home at the Former La Concha Hotel
First stop on this tour of neon sign museums is at the granddaddy of gaud — Las Vegas, Nevada. Founded in 2012, The Neon Museum www.neonmuseum.org offers a fun and fanciful look at Las Vegas’ past.
Located off The Strip in the lobby of the former La Concha Motel, the Neon Museum is easy to find. The former aquatic-themed hotel was built in 1961 and was designed to resemble a shell by architect Paul Revere Williams. It was originally located on the strip but it was moved to its present location in 2012, when the museum opened. Today it houses the museum office and gift shop; and even though the building is the epitome of retro, there’s a level entry, automatic doors and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair inside.
Guided tours are offered of the adjacent boneyard, which has an impressive collection of retired neon signs. There is level access throughout the hard-packed dirt paths through the boneyard, with benches to sit along the route. The tour includes tid-bits of Las Vegas history associated with select neon signs.
Favorite neon signs include the Moulin Rouge, the El Cortez and Lady Luck, which was featured in Vegas Vacation. Then there’s the animated happy shirt sign from Steiner’s Cleaners, and the favorite Ugly Duckling sign from a defunct car dealership. The oldest sign in the boneyard, which dates back to the 1930s, is from the Green Shack Restaurant on Fremont Street; while one of the most unusual signs was fashioned to resemble a yucca plant, for a hotel of the same name. All in all, it’s an informational, insightful and colorful tour.
The La Concha Neon Sign in the Boneyard at the Las Vegas Neon Museum
An Oregon Up-And-Comer
National Neon Museum
Over in The Dalles, Oregon, the National Neon Museum www.nationalneonsignmuseum.org, which opened in 2019, presents a comprehensive history of neon signage. Unlike the open-air Las Vegas museum, this site is located entirely inside, in the 1910 Elks Temple building. There’s parallel parking on the street, and an accessible ramped entrance around the corner on Court Street. Inside there’s good access to the first floor, with accessible restrooms near the gallery.
The visit begins with a short movie about the art on neon sign construction. There’s level access to the theater and plenty of room for wheelchairs in the front. After the film, visitors are taken on a docent-led guided tour, and then given time to explore the museum on their own.
Neon Exhibit at the National Neon Museum
The galleries begin with a mix of when science meets art, with the invention on neon lighting by Ceorges Claude. This French inventor introduced neon lighting at the Paris Motor Show in 1910. And by the 1920s this art form had migrated over to the US, and it began to increase in popularity after the Great Depression. There are several examples of early neon signage, including the Regal Boot from a Boston sign, and a good overview of the history and the process of creating these artworks.
There’s also a large gallery that houses founder David Benko’s collection of neon signage, as well as displays of different sign companies . The upstairs gallery, which is only accessible by stairs, includes storefronts filled with neon signage. From the ice cream parlor and BBQ chicken joint, to the jeweler and a TV store, it’s a true blast from the past.
And looking to the future, Benko plans to add the restored Jantzen Beach Carousel in 2028. And when that addition is made, the entire upstairs section will also be accessible.
More Neon Exhibits at the National Neon Museum
Barrier-Free Travel California National Parks Road Trips Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located on the scenic Mendocino coast, halfway between Russian Gulch State Park and Caspar Beach, Point Cabrillo Light Station (www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=22276) has long been a beacon to sailors. It was first illuminated on June 10, 1909, and today this active light station offers an interesting glimpse into maritime history. As an added bonus, you can also spend the night in a wheelchair-accessible cottage, and enjoy some coastal peace and quiet after the day visitors depart.
Explore the Light Station
Although there’s no standard parking at the light station, accessible parking is available in the main lot near the Kearn Farmhouse, which is about a half-mile away. The pedestrian path to the light station is wide and paved, however it’s a downhill walk to the light station. That said, if you have an accessible parking placard you can drive down the road and park in front of the 2nd Assistant Lightkeeper’s residence, which is just a short level walk from the lighthouse.
The restored blacksmith and carpentry shop, which is located across from the accessible parking area, is worth a stop on the way to the light station. There is a two-inch cement lip at the entrance, but if you can manage that obstacle, there’s enough room for a wheelchair inside the small building.
The lighthouse itself is located next door. There’s a ramped entry in front, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair around the interpretive exhibits and through the small gift shop. Artifacts include old photos, instruments, ship models and even the canon which was salvaged from the Frolic, which crashed into the rocky shore before the Point Cabrillo Light Station was built.
Save some time for a peek inside the 1st Assistant Lightkeeper’s residence, which is located near the accessible parking area. There’s ramp access to the building, and barrier-free access around the first floor. Built in 1909, the residence is furnished as it would have been in 1935, after electricity was added to the building. There are also accessible restrooms in the small building behind the residence.
The Point Cabrillo Light Station is also a lovely spot for a picnic lunch, and there are several accessible picnic tables on a grassy spot near the accessible parking area.
Spend the Night
West Cottage at Point Cabrillo Light Station
Although a day visit to the light station is great, nothing beats spending the night there. There are four restored buildings available for rent, two of which are accessible. West Cottage (www.mendocinovacations.com/houses/point-cabrillo-lighthouse-west-cottage), which is closest to the lighthouse, is a great choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
There’s no on-site lodging manager at the light station, and to be honest that’s part of the beauty of it all. Instead, guests pick up their keys at the Mendocino Coast Reservations Office, just a few miles away in downtown Mendocino. There’s ramp access to the office, with level parking in front, and an accessible parking space across the street.
It’s about a five-minute drive out to the light station from town. Unlike day visitors, overnight guests are permitted to drive their vehicles all the way down the path to the light station. West Cottage is located behind the 2nd Assistant Lightkeeper’s residence, and although there’s no striped parking, there’s plenty of space to park an accessible van near the cottage.
Wheelchair-Accessible West Cottage
There’s level access over to the wide front door of West Cottage, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair through the spacious suite. The cottage is nicely decorated and filled with period furnishings including two chairs and a small table, a vanity, and a 28-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. It’s also outfitted with a few modern conveniences such as a small refrigerator, a microwave, a coffee maker, a DVD player and four TV trays.
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 seat. There’s a nice angled mirror above the roll-under sink, and the toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated). And in keeping with the 1930s decorating theme, the floor is covered in black and white chicken wire tile, and the toilet is a vintage water closet with a pull-chain.
Outside there’s a small cement patio with a bench. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sunset The cottage isn’t fancy, but it’s certainly very comfortable, and includes a lot of often overlooked access features such as low-pile carpet. Plus, you just can’t beat the secluded location. As an added bonus, there’s no cell phone reception or cable TV, so you can really get away from the hubbub of modern life.
West Cottage can be rented alone or along with any of the other three buildings on the premises. And if you need another accessible unit, East Cottage has the same features as West Cottage, but it’s a little farther from the ocean. No matter what your choice though, you definitely won’t be disappointed.
Inside West CottageBathroom in West Cottage
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips Driving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Bear Brook State Park (www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/bear-brook-state-park), which is located in Southeastern New Hampshire, has a loaner track chair available for visitors. The purchase of this track chair was made possible by a contribution from America’s State Park Foundation, with support from The Bronco Wild Fund. The track chair is available for use from 8 AM to 4 PM, with advance reservations. A volunteer will be available to give users a safety demonstration before the track chair is checked out. Reservations can be made by calling the park office at (603) 485-9869.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located in sleepy little Guerneville, the Creekside Inn (creeksideinn.com) is nestled in the redwoods just a stones throw away from the Russian River. Built on stilts to withstand potential flooding, the majority of the rooms in this Sonoma County Inn are on eye-level with the avian population that inhabits the surrounding forest. And if you listen closely you’ll also hear the familiar “Chicago” call of the resident ground dwelling quail. Truly you are surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature at this rural property. And the good news is, the Creekside Inn boasts both ambiance and accessibility, with a nice wheelchair-accessible cottage.
The Lark Cottage
The inn itself is divided into two sections — the main house, where the office and six bed-and-breakfast rooms are located; and the surrounding buildings, which house a collection of second-floor cottages, suites and cabins. The accessible Lark Cottage is located in the latter section, with accessible parking near the office and elevator access up to the barrier-free elevated walkway on the top floor.
Access features in the cottage include wide doorways, barrier-free pathways, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair. The spacious bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower seat. The toilet is located in a separate alcove with grab bars on both sides; and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink.
The cottage is furnished with a 23-inch high queen-sized bed, and includes a roomy kitchen with a stove, sink, coffeemaker, refrigerator and even roll-out shelves. There’s also level access to the small deck area just outside the cottage.
The Little Extras
And let’s not forget the little extras, like fresh fruit on the counter and half-and-half in the refrigerator for your morning coffee. There’s also a gas fireplace for those nippy evenings.
Access to the public areas is good too at the Creekside Inn, with a lift available for the pool and hot tub. There’s also a barbecue area with level access and an accessible picnic table. And with the Russian River flowing in the background, it’s the perfect place to sip a glass of wine and enjoy the natural beauty of Sonoma County.
Top it off with a very welcoming and knowledgeable owner — Lynn Crescione — and you have all the key ingredients for a relaxing getaway. Not only is Lynn a first-rate hostess but she’s also very proactive as far as access is concerned. For example, she had a pool lift long before it was ever required. She just saw the need, and as a conscientious owner, she filled it. And that makes for good access.
In short, you just can’t go wrong with the Creekside Inn. Not only is it wheelchair-accessible, but it’s just what the doctor ordered for some serious R&R.
(click for larger image)
Bedroom in the Lark Cabin
Kitchen in the Lark Cabin
Shower and Toilet in the Lark Cabin
Vanity in the Lark Cabin
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Although Mesa Verde is now a national park, it was once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people. Today this Southwestern Colorado area boasts the remains of intricately crafted cliff dwellings, pueblos and pithouses that date back to 600 AD. And although there are some access obstacles, it’s still possible for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore portions of the ancient ruins. So here’s the scoop on how to plan a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde National Park (www.nps.gov/meve) visit.
Explore Mesa Verde
Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center
The best place to begin your visit is at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, which is located near the park entrance. There’s accessible parking with ramp access up to the visitor center, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair around the interpretive exhibits, ranger information desk, and book store inside. The building also houses a research center, where visitors can catch a glance at the archaeologists at work through wheelchair-height observation windows. Top it off with a loaner wheelchair, accessible restrooms and an accessible picnic table with a view, and you have everything you need.
After you finish exploring the visitor center, grab a map and follow Mesa Top Ruins Road towards the high point in the park — Park Point. This scenic route winds across the mesa and offers several excellent photo stops along the way; but the most accessible choice is Montezuma Valley Overlook. Not only does this stop offer a superb valley view, but it also has an accessible picnic table and vault toilet.
Another must see are the Far View Sites, which are located a few miles south of Far View Lodge. At one time this area housed as many as 50 villages, but today the pueblo-style ruins includes Far View House, four other villages and a dry reservoir. Unfortunately, uneven terrain hampers wheelchair access to all of the ruins, but Far View House is doable for most folks.
You can also get a good view of Pipe Shrine House in the distance from the far corner of the site. Some slow walkers may also be able to access the entire 3/4-mile dirt loop trail that begins at the far corner of this site. The trail is fairly level, but it has some gravel, rocks and uneven spots along the way.
Visit Chapin Mesa Headquarters
Next up on your wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit is Chapin Mesa Headquarters. From the Far View Sites, continue along Chapin Mesa Road and turn right at the stop sign. Chapin Mesa Headquarters has a large variety of services, including a museum, restrooms, ranger information, gift shops, a restaurant, a picnic area and some great views. The most convenient accessible parking is located in the main parking lot, across the street from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
From the parking lot, there’s an accessible pathway to the front door of the museum, which is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the National Park Service. And thanks to a multi-year renovation project, there’s wheelchair-access to the lobby, the bookstore, the auditorium and the galleries. Not only did the renovation provide improve physical access, but the historic structure was also preserved during the process.
Formerly the exhibits in this museum focused on the story of the park entirely from a 20th century archeological perspective. The new exhibits, which were designed in collaboration with the Colorado Museum of Natural History, offer an added perspective from the Native communities, who consider Mesa Verde a sacred place. It’s an excellent museum, and a must-see on any visit.
Save some time for a glance at Spruce Tree House, the third-largest cliff dwelling in the park. Although it’s not accessible to wheelchair-users and slow walkers, you can still get a good view of it from the back deck of the Chief Ranger’s Office. There’s a wheelchair-accessible pathway from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, and plenty of room for large wheelchairs and scooters on the deck. As an added bonus, occasional ranger programs are also held there.
Drive the Mesa Top Loop
Sun Temple at Mesa Verde National Park
Although there are two scenic mesa drives, the Mesa Top Loop is the the best choice for a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit. This scenic six-mile drive features a variety of archeological sites grouped in chronological order, and offers a good representation of the variety of housing styles used by the Ancestral Pueblo people.
The first stop along the drive is the Pithouse site, which features one of the oldest permanent structures on the mesa. There’s a level pathway out to a covered structure which protects the excavated pithouses. These semi-subterranean structures, which date back to 600 AD, took advantage of the earth’s natural insulation.
The Pithouses & Pueblos site, which dates back to 700 AD to 950 AD is also a recommended stop. A short .2-mile loop trail leads out to the ruins, which includes standard pithouses as well as masonry structures. There’s level access to both structures, with plenty of room for wheelchairs inside. This stop offers a good overview of how the shelter styles evolved over a few hundred years.
The Mesa Top Sites, which date back to 900 AD are just up the road. A .1-mile trail leads out to the ruins, which was home to three different villages that were were built on top of one another. The three circular towers, which are the most intact features, were part of the last village built on the site in 1075 AD.
Make a quick stop at Sun Temple, and follow the paved path to the ruins, but don’t miss Cliff Palace View, near the end of the drive. There’s a paved path out to a lowered viewing scope, which offers an excellent view of Cliff Palace in the distance. And if you can’t manage the short walk, there’s also a good view of the cliff dwelling from the parking area.
Spend the Night
A great way to top off a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit is to spend the night in the park. Of course you can always camp out at Morefield Campground, but if you’d prefer a few more creature comforts, then Far View Lodge (www.visitmesaverde.com) is the perfect choice. Located about a mile north of the Far View Sites, this 150-room property features good wheelchair access and great views of the surrounding countryside.
There’s accessible parking near the main lodge building, with level access to the lobby. From there is just a short drive to accessible room 159. The room includes a threshold ramp, wide doorways, a lowered clothing rod and good pathway access. Decorated in a decidedly western theme, it’s furnished with a 22-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a chest of drawers, a desk and a refrigerator.
The spacious bathroom is equipped with a three-foot-square transfer-type shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a handheld showerhead. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there is a roll-under sink just outside the bathroom. The room is very nicely done, and they even remembered to lower the towel bars.
On of the best features of this room is the private balcony, which offers level access and plenty of room for a wheelchair. Even if it’s too cold to sit outside, you can still enjoy the view from the large picture window. And since there’s no television in the room, you can occupy your time by star gazing and enjoying all that Mother Nature has to offer — and that’s reason enough make Far View Lodge your home base in Mesa Verde National Park.
Track chairs are great for getting out and enjoying Mother Nature and exploring trails that may not be accessible in standard wheelchairs. They are made by a variety of manufacturers, but unlike standard wheelchairs, these heavy duty power chairs have tank tracks rather than wheels. In sort, they are an excellent solution for inaccessible trails.
Disabled hunters can also appreciate the strengths of a track chair, especially while navigating wet and uneven terrain. Unfortunately these track chairs come with a high price tag, and depending on the options they can easily cost in upwards of $20,000. And although that price may put these unique adaptive devices out of the reach of many folks, a Vermont-based LLC now has a program that offers track chair grants to disabled game bird hunters.
Track2wing Track Chair Grants
Track2wing (https://www.track2wing.com/) was founded in 2020 by Terry Wilson and Nancy Anisfield. It’s a self-funded corporation that’s run by a volunteer board. Their mission is to provide a way for disabled game bird hunters to participate in hunting activities with sporting dogs. To that end they offer track chair grants for disabled game bird hunters. And as of 2026, Track2Wing has provided 61 disabled hunters with a track chair.
Applying for a track chair grant is pretty easy. The application period runs from January 1 to March 31. Applicants are asked to fill out a simple form detailing their physical needs as well as their game bird hunting and sporting dog experience. Upon receipt of the application, more information – such as medical documentation or a phone interview – may be requested. The applications are reviewed by the advisory committee, and applicants are notified of their status by the end of April.
Grant recipients are referred to a local Trackchair (https://thetrackchair.com/) dealer to complete the ordering process. Track2wing pays for the full cost of the track chair and even provides funds for accessories and a trailer.
It’s a great program, so get your application in now if you’re interested. Applications can be requested from Track2wing at (802) 482-2561 or track2wing@gmavt.net.
