Candy B. Harrington

About Candy B. Harrington

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.

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It’s Bald Eagle Season in Carson Valley

It’s Bald Eagle Season in Carson Valley

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Bald Eagle and Calf on State Route 88

The annual return of the bald eagles to Carson Valley is once again upon us; and with it comes the four-day extravaganza known as Eagles and Agriculture (www.carsonvalleynv.org/eagles-ag). Hosted by the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce, the 2025 festival will run from February 6 to February 9. During this time attendees can get a closer look at the raptors, enjoy some great nature photography, and learn a little be more about our national bird.

Bald Eagle Festivities

The festival kicks off with the Opening Reception on Thursday evening. Held in the CVIC Hall in Minden, this event features barrier-free access throughout the venue. The reception includes a display of images shot by local wildlife photographers, and also features a number of falconers with their birds. It’s a good opportunity to get a close look at these elusive raptors. Heavy Hors d’oeuvres are served during the reception, and a cash bar is also available.

The Friday evening Falconers Dinner is another popular event. It’s held at the Carson Valley Inn, which has good access for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. This fun evening includes a sit-down dinner and a keynote agriculture-related speaker. And the falconers also make a return appearance with their birds, only this time they’ll be on stage. A variety of conservation exhibits are also featured at this educational and enjoyable event.

Bald Eagles in the Wild

Don’t forget to save some time to check out the eagles in the wild while you’re in the area. State Route 88 is a popular eagle viewing location for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, as you can just pull over and see the birds from your own vehicle. Cattle placentas are the big attractant — and food source — for the eagles in this area. And since the bovine there give birth from December to February, this rural stretch of highway is a “can’t miss” winter eagle viewing location.

Another good place for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to spot bald eagles is at River Fork Ranch (www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/river-fork-ranch) — a combination nature preserve and working cattle ranch. Located off Highway 206 in Genoa, this 800 acre parcel boasts a patchwork of pastures, meadows and wetlands.

Whit Hill Interpretive Center at River Fork Ranch
The trail near the Whit Hill Interpretive Center

There’s accessible parking next to the Whit Hill Interpretive Center, and ramp access up to the porch. Even if the interpretive center is closed, the large wrap-around porch is an excellent vantage point for spotting the eagles in the nearby pastures. Alternatively, the .75-mile trail that begins near the back deck may work for some folks. The trail is fairly level, but there are more than a few bumps along the way; and at times it’s only two-feet wide. Still it may work for some slow walkers, and you can always turn around if it’s too much for you.

View along the trail near the Whit Hill Interpretive Center

 

A Little Local History

Of course, bald eagle watching is only the tip of the iceberg in Carson Valley, so take some time to learn a bit about the local history during your visit. And the best place to do that is at the Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center (www.historicnv.org) in Genoa. Housed in the 1915 former high school, the museum features accessible parking, a level back entrance and elevator access to the second floor.

Exhibits include a mock-up of a typical Basque sheepherder camp, complete with the tools of the trade and the ever present sheep dog. Other installations highlight the wild mustangs found in the area, Kit Carson — the valley’s namesake — and the native Washoe tribe. Top it off with a stroll down a Main Street of yesteryear, complete with an old time barbershop, mercantile and dress shop, and you’ll come away with a real appreciation for the history of the area.

For another taste of history, as well as a substantial meal, head on down the street to the J.T. Basque Bar & Dining Room (jtbasquenv.com). There’s accessible parking on the right side of the building — which was moved from Virginia City in 1896 — and ramp access up to the front door.

Over the years this classic Victorian building has served as a bar, a hotel and a dining room; and in keeping with tradition, today it offers up the same family-style meals that were once a staple of the local sheepherders and farm hands. Be sure and bring your appetite though, as a typical lunch or dinner includes an entrée with all you can eat soup, salad, stew, beans, French fries, and even a bottle of red wine. And if you have room for it, ice cream is available for dessert.

Spend the Night

Located along the main drag in Minden the Carson Valley Inn (carsonvalleyinn.com) is an excellent — and accessible — place to overnight. There’s accessible parking near the door, with ramp access up to this 149-room casino property through automatic doors. Inside there’s barrier-free access around the lobby, and over to the lowered front desk.

Room 131 features wide doorways, a lowered peephole, lever handles, low-pile carpet and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two night stands, a chest of drawers, a desk with a chair, a refrigerator, and a table with two chairs.

Room 131 at the Carson Valley Inn

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 portable shower chair. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.

Bathroom in Room 131 at the Carson Valley Inn

The Carson Valley Inn also has wheelchair-accessible rooms with tub/shower combinations. Additionally, toilet risers and tub chairs are available for any room.

There’s good access to all the public areas of the property including the business center, CV Steak and Katie’s Country Kitchen. Best of all, it’s located right next door to the casino, which also features ramp access. It’s the perfect place to stay for a Carson Valley eagle watching adventure.

Barrier-Free TravelYosemite, Sequoia and Kings CanyonNational Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon
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Discover Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Discover Dead Horse Ranch State Park

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Despite its foreboding name, Dead Horse Ranch State Park (https://azstateparks.com/dead-horse) is a pleasant place to visit. The unfortunate moniker comes from the Ireys family who came west in search of a better life in the 1940s. After several days of hunting for the perfect ranch, Mr. Ireys asked his kids which place they liked best. The children excitedly replied, “The one with the dead horse in front of it, dad.” And with that response, the family found a new home, and subsequently renamed it to mark the momentous occasion.

Thirty years later, when Arizona State Parks acquired the parcel, retention of the colorful name was a condition of the sale. Today there’s nary a dead horse in sight at this northern Arizona State Park. Instead you’ll find 423 acres filled with accessible trails, fishing and birding opportunities, and comfortable camping cabins. And since it’s just a one-hour hop off Interstate 40 from Flagstaff, it also makes a nice stop on a Grand Canyon visit, or even on a longer western national park road trip (emerginghorizons.com/western-national-park-road-trip-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/).

A Birding Hot Spot

Juvenile American Bittern at Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a prime birding spot in the spring and fall, and the headquarters for the Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival in late April. A word of warning though — it’s too hot for birds or humans during the stifling summer months, so plan your visit accordingly. On the plus side, 180 bird species have been spotted in the park during the prime seasons, including loons, herons, egrets, eagles, hawks, hummingbirds, kingfishers, swallows and ducks.

The best place to get a glance of the avian residents is on the Canopy Trail, which begins in the day use area. Accessible parking is located near the trailhead, and although it’s a short walk from the cabins, there are stairs and other obstacles along the way, so it’s best to drive.

Canopy Trail at Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

The quarter-mile wheelchair-accessible trail has a hard-packed dirt surface and is covered in crushed granite. The wide level trail winds under a cottonwood canopy, so there’s also plenty of shade along the way. About half-way along the loop there’s a picnic table and a large collection of chairs under an enormous cottonwood tree. There are also a number of hummingbird feeders in the area, so it’s the ideal place to just sit back and wait for the birds to appear. And if you’d like to pack along a picnic lunch, there are also sheltered picnic tables on a cement pad near the accessible restrooms in the parking lot.

Visit the Lagoons

Fishing Pier on the Lagoon at Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

Another must-see in the park are the three lagoons located near the end of the main park road. Filled with water from the Verde River, these lagoons are stocked with catfish and trout, and feature accessible trails around them. The trail around the west lagoon is a third-mile long, while the trail around the middle lagoon measures nearly a half-mile. And if you’d prefer a three-quarter mile scenic stroll, then the trail around the east lagoon is just what the doctor ordered.

There’s plenty of accessible parking around all of the lagoons, with barrier-free access to the lagoon trails, which also act as levees. The trails are wide, level and composed of hard-packed dirt, and they are shaded by the trees along the shore. There are also several accessible fishing piers on each lagoon, that offer roll-on access and lowered rails. Additionally if you’d like a longer walk, the trails connect, so you can plan a round-trip hike around all three lagoons.

Spend the Night at Dead Horse Ranch

Antelope Cabin at Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

If you’d like to spend the night in the park, the camping cabins are a nice wheelchair-accessible choice. The cabins are pretty basic, but a definite step up from pitching a tent. Cabin 1 has a paved parking area in front, with level access up to the front porch.

There’s a wide doorway and adequate wheelchair clearance inside the cabin. It’s furnished with a set of bunk beds and a double bed, a chest of drawers, a table and four chairs. The bunk bed is 17 inches high, while the double bed is 23 inches high; and they both offer wheelchair access on one side. Additionally, the chairs can be easily stowed on hooks when not in use, which frees up more floor space. The cabin also has electricity, overhead lights and an air conditioner.

Inside the Cabin 1 at Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

Outside there’s a picnic table on a level grassy area next to the cabin. There is also a fire grill near the table, and a bench on the porch. Cabins 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 also have the same accessibility features.

The bathhouse is located a short walk away along the paved road. The large family restroom includes a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench and grab bars, plus a toilet with grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink. . There’s no hand-held showerhead; and as a water conservation measure a one-to-two minute water spurt is released when the shower knob is pressed. Still it’s doable for most folks.

Bathhouse near Cabin 1 in Dead Horse State Park, Arizona

In the end, no matter if you overnight or just stop by for the day, this often overlooked Arizona state park is a definite must-see.

Barrier-Free TravelCalifornia National ParkRoad Tripsfor Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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California National Park
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800px-Boulevard_du_Montparnasse_1,_Paris_24_August_2013

Wheelchair-Accessible Paris Apartment

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Boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris

If you’re looking for a long-term wheelchair-accessible Paris apartment, then Lea Lior (www.facebook.com/lea.lior.5) may have just what you need. Located in the centrally located neighborhood of Montparnasse, this fully furnished unit is owned by a power wheelchair-user. There’s elevator access in the building, and the apartment includes an adjustable electric bed and a bathroom with a roll-in shower and a ceiling hoist. A rolling shower chair is also available. The neighborhood is accessible and flat, and there are accessible buses to Champs Elysées, the L’ouvre, Les Invalides, Marais and the Latin Quarter. The minimum rental time is one month, but it’s available for up to nine months if you’d like to extend your stay in the City of Lights. For more information about this wheelchair-accessible Paris apartment, e-mail Lea at liorlea@gmail.com

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Explore Mystic Seaport and More!

Explore Mystic Seaport and More!

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Mystic Lighthouse

Located 100 miles southwest of Boston, Mystic, Connecticut was a major shipbuilding center during the 1600s. Today the streets of this quintessential New England village are dotted with an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, souvenir shops and eateries. But Mystic is more than just a spot to load up on tourist tchotchkes. This coastal village is also home to two top attractions — both of which focus on the ocean. The Mystic Seaport Museum highlights the maritime and shipbuilding history of the area, while the Mystic Aquarium focuses on creatures and ecology of the sea. And the good news is, both of these popular attractions offer good access for slow walkers and wheelchair-users.

The Historic Seaport

Historic Buildings at the Mystic Seaport Museum

The Mystic Seaport Museum (www.mysticseaport.org) is a required stop on any Mystic visit. This 19-acre open-air museum focuses on maritime history and is filled with shipyard exhibits, historic vessels and maritime galleries. And it’s all built around a replica of a 19th century seafaring village.

Accessible parking is available in the south lot, with ramped access to the Sanger Visitor Reception Center across the street. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the front desk, and a large accessible restroom is located in this building. And the good news is, disabled guests and one companion receive a 50 percent discount on admission.

The seafaring village is filled with over 40 historic and reconstructed buildings. The roads through the village are mostly unpaved but level. The one exception is the area around the Children’s Museum and the Treworgy Planetarium, which has a slight incline. About a third of the village buildings feature level access but many have a step or two at the entrance, narrow doorways and very tight quarters inside. That said, there’s still lots to see for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

Take some time to roll through the shipyard, and have a look at the drug store, chapel and shipsmith shop, all of which are accessible. There’s also an accessible path out to the replica of the Brant Point Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point. And don’t miss the Charles W. Morgan Whaleship. Although there’s only stairway access to the vessel, you can still get a good look at it from the dock.

There’s also barrier-free access to most of the inside exhibits, which feature everything from ship carvings and folk art to silver trophies, shop figures and even a rare carousel hippocampus. There’s plenty to see and do — for everyone — in Mystic Seaport.

Under the Sea

Beluga Whale at the Mystic Aquarium

For a slightly different perspective of the sea, head on over to the Mystic Aquarium (www.mysticaquarium.org), where you’ll find everything from sharks and manta rays, to seals, sea lions and even Beluga whales.

There’s barrier-free access to the aquarium, with level access over to the Gift Store and the Saltwater Cafe. Accessible family restroom are located next to the Saltwater Cafe, and loaner wheelchairs are available at the front gate. And, if you are visiting with a personal care assistant, there’s no charge for their admission. Contact the admissions office for more information.

There is good access throughout the campus, with accessible pathways outside, and barrier-free access to the inside exhibits. The spacious indoor gallery features a 35,000-gallon tank filled with eels, pufferfish, sharks and rays. There’s also a ray touch pool, an interesting Amazon exhibit and a large collection of jellyfish. Best of all, you can wheel right up to the glass tank in the main gallery for an up-close-and-personal look at the inhabitants.

Outside, there’s also an impressive collection of marine exhibits. At the top of the list is the Beluga whale exhibit. You can roll right over and get an eye level look at these giants. And don’t miss the incredibly cute African penguins. The excellent Roger Tory Peterson Penguin Pavilion offers visitors an up-close-and-personal look at these comical creatures, both above and below the water.

Finally, check out the 200-foot Marsh Trek accessible boardwalk, for a close look at a variety of freshwater species including mallards, herons, bullfrogs and turtles. And make sure and stop at the seal pup play space on your way out. They are almost as entertaining as the African penguins, and it’s the perfect way to top off any Mystic Aquarium visit.

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Asheiou, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Do I Need a RADAR Toilet Key for my London Trip?

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RADAR toilet key

I use a manual wheelchair, and I plan to travel to London next year. I read online that I will need a RADAR toilet key in order to use the accessible public restrooms. Is this true, and how do I get this key?

RADAR toilet keys were the brainchild of the Royal Association of Disability and Rehabilitation, hence the catchy acronym. In the UK the single-use disabled toilets in public areas, office buildings, restaurants and pubs are kept locked, as they are larger than the standard loos, and sometimes people use them for other purposes (use your imagination on that one). It was also thought that having a key would keep these toilets available to people who really need them. So the key system was set up and RADAR sold keys to people that self-certified that they have a need for an accessible toilet.

Today RADAR is part of Disability Rights UK (DRUK), and they have RADAR toilet keys for sale on their website at disabilityrightsuk.org/shop/official-and-only-genuine-radar-key. These keys also work at Changing Places Toilets (changing-places.org/), which include all the standard access features, plus and adult changing tables and hoists. It should be noted that there are other companies that sell RADAR toilet keys, but since they are not the official keys, they may or not work on all disabled loos.

Do you absolutely need a RADAR toilet key when you travel to London? Not really, as keys are usually available at the venues, and you can obtain them by just asking an employee. That said, sometimes there may not be an employee on-site, or they might have problems locating the key, so there could be a delay in getting one. Since the cost of the key is minimal, and it doesn’t take up much room, I don’t see the harm in purchasing one online before you depart. Although you probably won’t need it most times, you’ll definitely be glad you have it if you do.

Barrier-Free TravelYosemite, Sequoia and Kings CanyonNational Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon
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Wheelchair-Accessible Colorado Cabins and More

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Stained Glass in the Ridge Top Cabin at Wilderness on Wheels, Colorado

Located 60 miles west of Denver near Kenosha Pass, Wilderness on Wheels (WOW) (www.wildernessonwheels.org) offers wheelchair-users and slow walkers the opportunity to hike through a pine forest, fish in a well-stocked pond and spend the night in a tent, hut or in one of two wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins.

Founded in 1986 by Roger West, WOW is supported through donations, grants and a robust army of dedicated volunteers. There’s no charge to use the boardwalk trails, fishing pond or picnic areas; and the campsites, huts and wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins are available at very reasonable rates. Not only does WOW make an excellent day trip from Denver, but it can also be worked into a longer Rocky Mountain National Park road trip itinerary (emerginghorizons.com/all-terrain-wheelchair-in-rocky-mountain-national-park/).

Hike, Picnic & Fish

Riverside Boardwalk at Wilderness on Wheels

Accessible parking is available in a large lot at WOW, with barrier-free access over to the ramped office. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter around the office and gift shop.

There are two boardwalk trails on the property — the River Boardwalk and the Mountain Boardwalk. The half-mile River Boardwalk follows a mountain stream, winds past the fishing pond, and continues through the forest to the rustic log cabin. And if you’d like to enjoy a picnic lunch there’s an accessible gazebo near the beginning of the boardwalk, and a ramped picnic shelter near the campsites.

Additionally, there’s level access over to an accessible fishing platform that overlooks the pond. Some accessible fishing gear — including a wheelchair rod holder — is available in the office, but anglers must supply their own fishing rods and bait. The pond is stocked with rainbow trout, and although no fishing license is required for disabled anglers, there is a limit of three fish per person. Able-bodied fisherman with a fishing license are welcome to try their luck over in the stream that runs alongside the boardwalk.

The Mountain Boardwalk at Wilderness on Wheels

The Mountain Boardwalk begins on the other side of the parking lot. This mile-long trail winds gently up to the ridgetop, which has an elevation of just over 9,000 feet. There are several picnic tables along the way, and lots of spots to stop and rest. There’s also barrier-free access to the adjacent property, where the Family Music Festival is held every August. Wheelchair-users can view the festivities and grab a bite to eat on the boardwalk, while the main seating area is located next to the boardwalk. There’s no charge to attend the festival, but it is a fundraiser for WOW, and donations are gladly accepted.

Camp Under the Stars

Tent Platform at Wilderness on Wheels

If you’d like to sleep under the stars, WOW also has a nice selection of accessible campsites and huts along the Riverside Boardwalk. The campsites each include a charcoal grill, a fire ring and an accessible picnic table. Some of the campsites have tent platforms, while the rest have level space to pitch a tent. And some can even accommodate a RV.

Camping Hut at Wilderness on Wheels

The wheelchair-height huts feature a lockable door. Just bring your sleeping bag, roll it out on the platform, then transfer over and tuck yourself in for the night. One hut also includes a cot. The huts all feature a picnic table — some are covered — a charcoal grill and a fire ring. One of the huts also has electricity.

Campers are asked to bring their own charcoal, but plenty of free firewood is available on site. There are no showers in the campground, but accessible restrooms are located near the office. Potable water is also available near the beginning of the River Boardwalk. Plan ahead though, as advance reservations for the campsites and huts are essential.

Wheelchair-Accessible Colorado Cabins

There are also two wheelchair-accessible cabins available at WOW. The Riverside Boardwalk rustic cabin can sleep four and it features ramp access up to the porch and barrier-free access through the wide front door. It includes a full kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishes. There’s a sleeper sofa in the downstairs living area, and a full bed in the upstairs loft. The unit lacks running water, but jugs of water are provided. It’s a comfortable place to sleep in the pines.

(click image to enlarge gallery)

The ridgetop cabin is located near the top of the boardwalk, and you just can’t beat the view. You don’t have to haul your gear up the boardwalk, as you can usually access the cabin from a service road. That said, the road may be impassable for low-clearance vehicles; and if that’s the case the folks at WOW will happily transport you and your gear up to the cabin. Up on top, there’s plenty of room to park an adapted van, and ramp access up to the cabin deck.

The spacious great room includes a kitchen, dining area, and sleeping space. The kitchen boasts a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and a good selection of dishes, cookware and utensils. There’s also a large dining table near the kitchen, and a 25-inch high king-sized bed, plus a 23-inch high twin bed on the other side of the room.

The bathroom is equipped with a tub/shower combination with a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. Other features include a roll-under sink, toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated) and a tub/shower chair.

(click image to enlarge gallery)

Either one of these wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins makes an excellent choice for a mountain getaway. Reservations can be made on the WOW website (www.wildernessonwheels.org), but plan ahead as they book up fast.

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Washington National Parks
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The Little Bighorn Battlefield — More Than Custer’s Last Stand

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Billed as “a place of reflection”, the Little Bighorn Battlefield (www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm) makes a good stop on a Southern Montana road trip. Although the fate of Lt. Colonel Custer’s 7th Calvary gets the lion’s share of space in the history books, this national monument gives equal time to the Crow and Arikara scouts that helped Custer, as well as the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Lakota warriors who opposed him. Located off Interstate 90 in Broadus, not only is this stop a good place to learn about the history of the area, but it also boasts some impressive scenery and it’s a fitting memorial to both the US troops and the Plains tribes involved in the historic battle.

A Little History

General Custer’s Battlefield Marker

The tensions between the US Army and the Plains tribes technically began in 1868, with the Treaty of Fort Laramie. This document created a large reservation for the Lakota in the Black Hills of South Dakota. That said, some Lakota leaders, including Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse rejected the reservation model, refused to sign the treaty and continued to hunt outside the boundaries of the reservation.

Tensions escalated in 1874 when Custer was dispatched to the area to locate a site inside the reservation for a military post, and to make note of the natural resources in the region. Geologists discovered gold deposits and when word spread of this discovery, miners descended on the Black Hills. This was not taken kindly by the Plains Indians, as it encroached on their hunting land. The US subsequently tried to purchase the land, and when that attempt failed, they ordered the Indians out of the area. That ultimatum was subsequently ignored.

Custer was later dispatched to flank a Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho hunting village, and drive the Indians north into the hands of awaiting troops. Custer’s original plan was to attack at dawn on June 25; however when his presence was discovered he was forced to advance immediately. And since the element of surprise was lost, the Battle of the Little Bighorn was a victory for the Plains Indians. During the next year the remaining “hostiles” were hunted down by the US Army, and their land was taken without any compensation.

Custer National Cemetery

Custer Memorial Cemetery at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

The visitor center at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument details the events that led to the historic battle. It also includes an account of the battle, as well as examples of the weapons used by both sides. There’s plenty of accessible parking near the entrance to the visitor center, and barrier-free pathways inside. A short orientation film is shown throughout the day in the wheelchair-accessible theater.

There’s level access to Custer National Cemetery, which is located next to the visitor center. That said, although the pathways through the cemetery are paved, some are level and some are undulating. There are plenty of benches to sit and rest along the way, and there’s also a loaner wheelchair available at the visitor center for folks who can’t do distances.

Last Stand Hill is visible from the back of the visitor center; however the path up to it is too steep for wheelchair-users. Alternatively, you can drive up there. Accessible parking is located near the 7th Calvary Memorial Monument, where the remains of Custer’s soldiers are interred in a mass grave. Custer’s remains are now interred at the US Military Academy at West Point, where Custer graduated in 1861.

Save some time for the 4.5-mile auto tour through the battlefield. There are several pullouts with interpretive panels along the way. There’s also a free cell phone tour available at www.nps.gov/libi/planyourvisit/cell-phone-audio-tour.htm. Not only will the drive give you an appreciation for the expanse of the battlefield, but the white markers that show where the fallen soldiers were found are rather sobering.

Indian Memorial

Indian Memorial at Little Bighorn Battlefield Memorial

The Indian Memorial at the Little Bighorn Battlefield, was erected to honor Native American participants in the conflict. To get there, take the left trail in back of the visitor center for about 200 yards and cross the street. From there, a dirt trail winds around to the niche that contains the memorial. The undulating trail has level resting spots every 50 feet, but some manual wheelchair-users may require assistance to get to the monument.

The granite panels of the monument include the names of the Arikara, Apsaalooke, Arapaho, Cheyenne and Oayate warriors who participated in the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The theme of the memorial is “Peace Through Unity”, and it acknowledges the need for cooperation between tribal governments and the federal government. There’s also a bronze sculpture of three spirit warriors riding off to battle next to the granite monument.

The placement of the monument is also significant. The Spirit Gate — a narrow opening in the monument — faces Last Stand Hill. This gate acts as a passage to the afterlife for Custer’s men that are buried on Last Stand Hill. It’s meant to represent the mutual respect between Native Americans and the US government, that has evolved over the years. It also helps reinforce the “Peace Through Unity” theme of the Little Bighorn Battlefield memorial.

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Utah National Parks
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Affordability: The Biggest Obstacle to Accessible Travel

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I’ve been covering accessible travel for nearly 30 years, and in that time I have most certainly seen a lot of changes. Travel really is more accessible today for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Granted, if you are in your 30s, you probably don’t remember what things were like decades ago with the archaic attitudes about disability — before the ADA and other laws made access possible. If that’s the case I totally understand why you feel things are still not accessible enough, as that’s a fair assessment from your perspective. 

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Migratory Monarchs Emerge From Hibernation in Northern California

Migratory Monarchs Emerge From Hibernation in Northern California

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Let’s face it, it’s been a long winter. And there’s no better harbinger of spring than butterflies — more specially Monarch butterflies as they emerge from hibernation along the Northern California coast. After spending several months clumped together in clusters in eucalyptus trees, these migratory Monarchs become more active as they fly around, mate, and prepare for their flights inland to lay their eggs. So check out these three wheelchair-accessible Northern California sites this month, and enjoy a colorful taste of the migratory Monarchs as they emerge from hibernation. But don’t tarry, as these winter visitors will be long gone by the end of March.

Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Monarch Grove Sanctuary in Pacific Grove, California

There’s no better place to catch a glimpse of the migratory Monarchs than the Monarch Grove Sanctuary (www.cityofpacificgrove.org/our_city/departments/public_works/city_owned_infrastructure/buildings___grounds/monarch_sanctuary.php)
in Pacific Grove. 

This popular Monarch stopover is located off of Lighthouse Avenue, just south of the Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Course. Keep an eye out for the Butterfly Grove Inn, then turn south on Ridge Road. A white picket fence marks the path to the grove, but accessible parking is located further down Ridge Road on the left. From there; it’s a level roll up the street to the sanctuary entrance.

A .15-mile hard-packed dirt path leads through the grove and dead-ends in the adjacent neighborhood. There is an accessible porta-potty near the end of the path; and although the trail has level spots every 20 to 30 feet, some manual wheelchair-users may require assistance up the slight grade on the return trip.

The best time to hit the Monarch Grove Sanctuary is in the afternoon, because as temperatures warm up, the butterflies become more active and start to fly around through the grove. Although they might not be apparent at first, take some time to scan the tips of the pine and cypress trees, as those are their favorite landing places. Also keep an eye out for what looks to be clumps of dead leaves, as these might be clusters of the overwintering Monarchs. Docents are on duty in the season to help point out the butterflies, but for the best experience bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the Monarchs.

Natural Bridges State Beach

Monarch Boardwalk at Natural Bridges State Park

Another favorite spot to view the migratory Monarchs is located up the coast in Santa Cruz, at Natural Bridges State Beach (www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=541). 

It’s pretty easy to find too. From Pacific Grove follow Highway 1 north, until it turns into Mission Street in Santa Cruz. Turn left on Swift Street, which is the first traffic light after the Safeway, then follow the road until it dead ends on West Cliff Drive. From there, turn right and follow the road along the ocean to the park entrance.

The day use area is located a short drive up the park road. There’s accessible parking in the large lot with level access over to the visitor center. Inside, there’s barrier-free access around a number of interpretive exhibits about the butterflies, their habitat, and of course their migration. Accessible family restrooms are located just outside the front door of the visitor center.

The Monarch Boardwalk is located across the service road from the visitor center. This .15-mile trail winds through a eucalyptus grove, and although it does have a slight downhill grade, there are level spots every 20 to 30 feet. That said, some manual wheelchair-users may need a bit of assistance on the uphill journey.

This is one of the top spots to find the overwintering Monarchs, however it’s usually a hit or miss proposition. Weather plays a big factor in their presence and activity, and you’ll probably strike out after a big storm or on a windy day. That said it is one of their favorite haunts.

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Monarch Butterflies at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Last but not least, don’t forget to stop at Lighthouse Field State Beach, (www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=550). From Natural Bridges State Beach, back track on West Cliff Drive, pass the lighthouse, and turn into the parking lot for Lighthouse Field on the left. Alternatively, accessible parking is also available across the street in front of the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.

You’ll find the Monarchs in the Monterey cypress and eucalyptus trees in the grassy field near Pelton Avenue. Although there’s a sizable population during the winter months, getting there can be difficult in rainy years, as the accessible hard-packed dirt paths to the grove flood easily. It’s about a half-mile walk to the grove on the dirt paths.

Bottom line — this is an excellent spot in dry years, as you’ll not only spot the clumps of butterflies, but there are also individual butterflies flying around near the end of the season. Give it a go and see what the dirt paths look like; and if they’re not a mucky mess, then go for it. After all, it’s on the way from Natural Bridges, and it’s definitely worth a quick stop.

Barrier-Free TravelCalifornia National ParkRoad Tripsfor Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Road Trips
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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Longs Peak Lodge at Estes Park Center

National parks make a great multigenerational vacation choice. Grandparents can spend time with their grandkids and help them earn their junior ranger badges, while mom and dad can take the afternoon off and enjoy mother nature. And nothing beats a family campfire in the evening. That said, planning a multigenerational national park adventure can be a challenge, as you to need consider a wide range of ages, abilities and interests. And then there’s the lodging issue. On the plus side, if your itinerary includes Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park Center (ymcarockies.org/Locations/Estes-Park-Center) makes the perfect wheelchair-accessible home base for the whole family.

Spend the Night

Located just outside of Estes Park, Estes Park Center is about three miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The hotel-style lodge rooms are the perfect choice for several families traveling together, or even a family reunion. Each family can have their own lodge room, and there’s also a comfortable lobby with a fireplace in each building. So you can have you privacy, or be a social butterfly — the choice is entirely yours. And although this property is open to everyone, YMCA of the Rockies members get a discount.

Longs Peak Lodge, which is just a short drive from the office, is one of the most accessible lodge choices. There’s plenty of accessible parking in front, with level access up to the lodge entrance. Accessible Room 8101 is located one floor down and is accessible by elevator.

Room 8101 at Longs Peak Lodge

The room features wide doors and good pathway access, and it’s furnished with two 26-inch high queen-sized beds, with an access aisle between them. A table and two chairs are also included; and a floor futon mattress is available upon request. There’s level access through a wide door to the oversized bathroom, which is equipped with a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead, grab bars and a fold-down shower bench. Toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there’s also a roll-under sink in the bathroom.

Bathroom in room 8101 at Longs Peak Lodge

And for a nice family meal, head over to the Aspen Dining Room. Although there’s a path down to it from Longs Peak Lodge, it’s a bit steep and rocky. Best bet is to drive down if you have mobility issues. There is level access to the dining room, which offers a breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. There are also a lot of large tables, so it’s a great family dining option. Even better — breakfast for two is included with each room.

Activities Galore

Part of Estes Park Center is located on 860 pine-studded acres, and surrounded on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park. A popular reunion venue, this family oriented lodge has plenty of activities for all ages.

Lodge guests can take advantage of the Day Camps, which includes a variety of programs for kids of all ages, as well as a substernal menu of offerings for the whole family. And with advance notice, they are usually able to accommodate children with access needs. It’s a good opportunity for kids to bond, learn a little bit about nature, and get some exercise.

If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to strike out on your own, then check out the wheelchair-accessible Enger Family Nature Trail. It begins at the Boone Family Mountain Center and loops through the surrounding forest, with interpretive panels about the forest ecosystem along the way. It makes for a nice inclusive one-mile walk through the forest.

Finally, you can also take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Sprague Lake and Bear Lake are good choices, as they they are close and they both have wheelchair-accessible trails. Plan ahead though, as entrance reservations are now required for Rocky Mountain National Park (emerginghorizons.com/national-park-entrance-reservations-required-in-2024/)

The bottom line is, Estes Park Center makes an excellent home base for a Rocky Mountain National Park visit. The park is just a stones throw away, and there’s really no shortage of fun activities for Estes Park Center guests, where the motto is, “boredom is simply not an option.”

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