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.

Posts by Candy :

Looking for an Accessible Rental Van in Yellowstone National Park

Looking for an Accessible Rental Van in Yellowstone National Park

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Old Faithfull at Yellowstone National Park

My husband and I are planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park. We live in New Hampshire, so we plan to fly out west and rent an accessible van to explore the area. Can you tell me where I can find an accessible rental van in Yellowstone National Park? Also any suggestions for accessible hotels in the park would be greatly appreciated. I use a manual wheelchair and I absolutely love the outdoors.

Rent an Adapted Van

Well if you love the outdoors, then Yellowstone National Park is certainly the place for you. The scenery is beautiful and the park boasts a lot of accessible trails, picnic areas, sights and lodging options.

Unfortunately you won’t find an accessible rental van in Yellowstone National Park. Instead, you can rent one in one of the gateway cities. I suggest flying into Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s about a five-hour drive from the airport to the the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, where you can begin your visit. And you can rent an accessible van from United Access (www.unitedaccess.com) in Wood Cross, which is about 15 minutes from the Salt Lake City Airport.

Explore the Area

Yellowstone is a very large park, and although the Old Faithful area, which is close to West Yellowstone, is a good place to begin your visit, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. I would plan for at least another four days in the park, with visits to the Mammoth Hot Springs, Canyon, Lake Yellowstone and West Thumb areas of the park. Here are some sample itinerary suggestions – emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-glacier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/#itin-3.

And if you’d like to dodge the crowds, then here are a few more suggestions – emerginghorizons.com/dodge-the-crowds-in-yellowstone-at-these-wheelchair-accessible-sites/.

Spend the Night

Finally, let’s talk about accessible lodging in Yellowstone National Park. All of the major park hotels offer accessible rooms; however Canyon Lodge (www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/lodgings/cabin/canyon-lodge-cabins/) is one of my favorites. It’s the largest property in the park, with over 500 rooms, and it’s located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. And even though it’s a large property, there is a wheelchair-accessible shuttle that runs between all the lodge buildings to the dining facilities, retail outlets and the visitor center in nearby Canyon Village. So, you can just park the car when you arrive.

Canyon Lodge offers a variety of accessible rooms. Room 1136 is furnished with two 26-inch high queen-sized beds with an access aisle between them, and has a bathroom that’s equipped with a tub/shower combination with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Add in a toilet with grab bars and a roll-under sink, and you have a very nice accessible room. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer an accessible room with a roll-in shower, room 4305 will work nicely for you.

Canyon Lodge also has an accessible cabin (cabin 32) which is furnished with with a 24-inch high twin bed (with a trundle), and a 26-inch high open-framed queen-sized bed. The bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The toilet is outfitted with grab bars, and there’s a roll-under sink in the guest bedroom. It’s a nice premium accessible lodging choice.

Truly, Canyon Lodge has a room to suit just about every taste and budget. There’s also barrier-free access to all the public areas at this property. It’s a great place to base yourself for a wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone adventure.

Barrier-Free TravelGlacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
for Wheelers and Slow Walkers

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The Creekside Inn – A Wheelchair-Accessible Sonoma Retreat

The Creekside Inn – A Wheelchair-Accessible Sonoma Retreat

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The Lark Cottage at Creekside Inn

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
Bedroom in the Lark Cabin
Kitchen in the Lark Cabin
Kitchen in the Lark Cabin
Shower and Toilet in the Lark CabinShower and Toilet in the Lark Cabin
Shower and Toilet in the Lark Cabin
Vanity in the Lark Cabin
Vanity in the Lark Cabin
Barrier-Free TravelYosemite, Sequoia and Kings CanyonNational ParksTravel Ideasfor Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon
National Parks
Travel Ideas
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Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

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Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

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Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park

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.

Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

Room 159 at Far View Lodge

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas
Barrier-Free TravelUtah National Parksfor Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Utah National Parks
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trac-chair (1)

Track Chair Grants for Disabled Game Bird Hunters

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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.

So get busy and apply for a track chair today!

 

cityPASS

Explore Accessible Philadelphia with CityPASS

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If a trip to the City of Brotherly Love is in your future, then check out CityPASS (www.citypass.com), for an affordable way to explore accessible Philadelphia. CityPASS users can choose from three, four or five of the following attractions; and the ticket book is good for nine days once it’s validated.

  • Adventure Aquarium
  • The Franklin Institute
  • Philadelphia Zoo
  • Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works
  • Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Museum of the American Revolution
  • Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
  • Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
  • National Constitution Center
  • Barnes Foundation

There are several ways to enjoy the Philadelphia CityPASS, but here’s a suggestion for a five-attraction itinerary.

Take A Big Bus Tour

A good way to get a good overview of the city is to hop on the Big Bus (www.bigbustours.com/en/philadelphia/philadelphia-bus-tours). A 24-hour Big Bus pass is one CityPASS ticket option; and although the whole bus fleet is not accessible, arrangements for an accessible bus can be made with 48-hours notice. The wheelchair-lift can accommodate up to 650 pounds, but if you want to enjoy the view from the top of the double-decker bus, you have to negotiate the narrow staircase.

There are two ways to ride the Big Bus; you can ride the entire route as a tour, or you can hop off and enjoy attractions along the way. If you elect to hop off, the same accessible bus will return to your stop two hours later, so be sure and check with the driver and plan accordingly.

Visit the Historic District

A visit to the historic district — including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Benjamin Franklin Museum — is a must-do on any accessible Philadelphia itinerary. And the good news is, it’s a stop on the Big Bus tour. There’s so much to see in the area, that you might want to set aside two days to see it all at a leisurely pace.

And while you’re in the historic district be sure and use your CityPASS ticket to visit the National Constitution Center (constitutioncenter.org). Located across Arch Street from the Independence Visitor Center, the National Constitution Center is the first and only institution established by Congress to disseminate information about the United States Constitution on a non-partisan basis. And although that sounds like a mouthful, it’s a world away from eighth grade civics.

There is level access to the front entrance through the courtyard on Arch Street, with barrier-free access throughout the galleries. The interactive exhibits depict the effects that milestone events have had on our freedom. From slavery, the New Deal and prohibition, to Watergate, women’s rights and even the Americans with Disabilities Act, it’s a very thought provoking collection. .

Hit the Big House

The Eastern State Penitentiary (easternstate.org), which is also a Big Bus stop is definitely worth a visit. There’s level access over to the entrance, with curb-cuts and wide sidewalks along the way. There are steps down into the ticket office, but they can be easily bypassed (just ask one of the guards). Most of the pathways along the tour route are level, and although a few cells are not accessible, you can certainly get a good look at them from the corridors. They’ve done a pretty good job of making this aging facility doable for wheelchair-users.

Make sure and pick up the audio tour (included with admission) as it’s narrated by former guards and prisoners and it paints an accurate picture of prison life. Opened in 1830, the Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to strike fear into the prisoners, and to isolate them so they could reflect on their crimes. They spent 23 hours a day in their cells, and when they did leave they had to wear a black hood so they wouldn’t see anyone else. Talking to anyone — prisoners or guards — was strictly forbidden. Indeed it was a solitary life and the tour reflects that fact.

Franklin Institute

After the somber prison atmosphere, hop back on the Big Bus and get off at the more relaxed Franklin Institute (fi.edu/en). Although steps grace the front entrance of this Philly favorite, there’s an accessible entrance just to the right. Known as an innovator in hands-on interactive exhibits, the Franklin Institute has a large collection of science-based touchable attractions that explore everything from sports to space. And it’s a great place for wheelchair-users, as there’s barrier-free access through the galleries, with elevator access to all floors.

Admission to the planetarium is also included with the CityPASS ticket. There is level access to the planetarium, with wheelchair and companion seating in front. Unlike most planetariums, the seats don’t tip back a lot, and most of the show is easy to see from a wheelchair or a standard chair.

There are also a number of demonstrations throughout the museum during the day, so make sure and check your program. And although there are a lot of kids at this attraction, it’s also a fun place for adults.

Cross the Delaware

Last but certainly not least, plan to visit the Adventure Aquarium (www.adventureaquarium.com), located across the Delaware River on your Philadelphia visit. If you’re riding the Big Bus, get off at Penn’s Landing and catch the RiverLink Ferry (www.riverlinkferry.com) to cross the river. There is level access to the ferry, and plenty of room for wheelchairs on the main deck, with lots of companion seating nearby. Access to the upper deck is only by stairs, but the view from below is just as nice. It’s almost like a mini river cruise, as you get views of the waterfront, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, the Battleship New Jersey and the Philadelphia skyline on the way to Camden.

Over on the other side, there’s level access access to the Adventure Aquarium, accessible restrooms inside, and elevator access to the second floor. Additionally, all of the galleries have ramp access, wheelchair-height exhibits and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair.

Must-sees include Hippo Haven, which houses Nile hippos Button and Genny, and a stop at the Touch-A-Shark exhibit to get up close and personal with epaulet sharks and bamboo sharks. And don’t miss the the Plexiglas tunnel that offers a 360-degree view of the shark exhibit. Last, but not least, check out Penguin Park, where you’ll see the incredibly cute Black-footed African Penguins.

All in all, it’s a great accessible place to spend the day. Take your time to enjoy it all, before you head back to Philadelphia on the return ferry.

And for mor information about accessible Philadelphia, be sure and consult this excellent access guide (emerginghorizons.com/philadelphia-access-guide/).

Barrier-Free Travel101 Accessible Vacations:Travel Ideasfor Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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101 Accessible Vacations:
Travel Ideas
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All Terrain Wheelchairs in Tennessee State Parks

All Terrain Wheelchairs in Tennessee State Parks

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If your travels take you to the Volunteer State, then check out the loaner all terrain wheelchairs in Tennessee state parks. The list is growing, but currently over 30 state parks offer these loaner wheelchairs. They are available to both adults and children, and they can be operated independently or with caregiver assistance. And each park has a list of specific trails you can try out in their loaner all terrain wheelchairs. The wheelchairs are available at these Tennessee state parks.

West Tennessee

  • Chickasaw State Park
  • Fort Pillow State Historic Park
  • Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
  • Natchez Trace State Park
  • Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park
  • Paris Landing State Park
  • Pickwick Landing State Park
  • Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
  • Reelfoot Lake State Park
  • T.O. Fuller State Park

Middle Tennessee

  • Bledsoe Creek State Park
  • Cedars of Lebanon State Park
  • Cumberland Mountain State Park
  • Cummins Falls State Park
  • David Crockett State Park
  • Fall Creek Falls State Park
  • Henry Horton State Park
  • Long Hunter State Park
  • Radnor Lake State Park
  • Alvin C. York State Historic Park
  • Tims Ford State Park

East Tennessee

  • Booker T. Washington State Park
  • Cove Lake State Park
  • Cumberland Trail State Park
  • Harrison Bay State Park
  • Indian Mountain State Park
  • Panther Creek State Park
  • Red Clay State Historic Park
  • Roan Mountain State Park
  • Rocky Fork State Park
  • Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park
  • Warriors’ Path State Park

Reservations for the all terrain track chairs are available at stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/all_terrain_wheelchair_request. Alternatively, you can call the parks directly with your reservation request. This method is preferred when the anticipated visit is less than three days away. And although reservations are preferred, the all terrain wheelchairs are available on a walk-up basis, if they are not already reserved.

For more information on all terrain wheelchairs in Tennessee state parks, visit tnstateparks.com/accessibility/all-terrain-wheelchairs.

Barrier-Free Travel22 Accessible Road TripsDriving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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22 Accessible Road Trips
Driving Vacations
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Enjoy These Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Railroads

Enjoy These Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Railroads

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Although most folks associate national parks with hiking, camping and outdoor activities, a few of our nation’s natural showplaces also have active railroads running through or near them. Be it a short train excursion in a national park or a longer rail journey to get there, riding the rails is a fun and accessible option for all visitors. So check out these wheelchair-accessible national park railroads on your next visit to these popular sites.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon Railway on its Way to the Grand Canyon

emerginghorizons.com/grand-canyon-without-a-car
The Grand Canyon Railway departs from Williams and travels north to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Along the way this historic train passes through a Ponderosa Pine forest before it drops down to an open prairie, and then climbs back up to the Pinyon Pine forest near the South Rim. There are six classes of service, with Pullman, Coach and First Class being the most accessible, All of the cars can be accessed by a portable lift, and they are outfitted with wheelchair-tie downs and nearby companion seats. Passengers can do this excursion as a day trip, or opt to spend a night or two on the South Rim before returning to Williams. And if you’d like a longer rail journey, Amtrak’s Southwest Chief offers service to Flagstaff, with transfers available to Williams.

Yosemite National Park

 

Amtrak / Yarts Transfer Bus in Yosemite Valley

emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-yosemite-rail-excursion/
If you’d like to ride the rails to Yosemite National Park, then hop aboard Amtrak’s Gold Runner. This route travels from Northern California and Southern California to the Merced Amtrak Station. From there passengers are transferred to an Amtrak Connection bus (operated by YARTS) for the rest of the journey to Yosemite National Park. All Amtrak trains feature lift boarding and have wheelchair tie-downs abord; and although all YARTS busses are accessible, it’s important to note your access needs on your Amtrak reservation. And once you get to Yosemite National Park it’s easy to get around, as the free shuttle stops at all of the popular attractions in Yosemite Valley. And all the park shuttles are wheelchair-accessible.

Cuyahoga National Park

 

Boarding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway Train

emerginghorizons.com/plan-a-wheelchair-accessible-reunion-at-cuyahoga-valley-national-park/
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible national park railroads is the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway. This Northeastern Ohio scenic railway dates back to the 1800s, and today it operates excursions through Cuyahoga National Park. The 3.5-hour excursion begins in the Rockside Station and passes south along the Cuyahoga River through Brecksville, the Boston Store Visitor Center and Peninsula Depot, before it winds its way down to the Akron Northside Station. After a short stop, it then returns north to the Rockside Station. Access on board is great, with lift access to the accessible car which has 60 seats, all of which can be flipped up to accommodate wheelchair-users. It’s a scenic excursion through the national park, with plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing, including catching a glance or two at the resident bald eagles.

Glacier National Park

 

                                                  Belton Depot in West Glacier

Glacier National Park is another national park that you can get to without a car. Amtrak’s Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Spokane, with connections to Portland and Seattle. There is lift access to the train, with wheelchair-seating on board. The train stops at both West Glacier and East Glacier; and wheelchair-accessible shuttle transportation is available at both stops to connect to select lodges. And after you are settled in, you can use the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle or sign up for Red Bus tour to explore the park.

Mount Rainier National Park

 

View from the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad

emerginghorizons.com/all-aboard-the-mt-rainier-scenic-railroad/
Although the namesake Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad does not go into the national park, it’s still worthy of a mention here because of the scenery and iconic Mount Rainier views. The train departs from Elbe, which is about 15 minutes from the Nisqually Entrance of the national park. This daily excursion train features historic cars which are pulled by a Polson Logging No. 70 steam locomotive. That said, historic does not mean inaccessible, as a manual wheelchair lift is available at the station. Two excursions are available on the railway, both of which travel through the countryside, as attendants share the history of the area and points of interest along the way. And if the weather cooperates and the clouds clear, you’ll also be treated to an impressive Mount Rainier view.

Denali National Park

 

Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star

emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-denali-national-park/
Last but certainly not least on our list of wheelchair-accessible national park railroads is the Denali Star up in Alaska. Operated by Alaska Railroad during the summer months, this line runs from Anchorage and Fairbanks to Denali National Park. All stations as well as the GoldStar dome cars are wheelchair-accessible. It’s a great way to get to this remote park, and most cruise lines also offer it as a post-cruise excursion. And you just can’t beat the scenery along the way. It’s a great prelude to a Denali National Park visit.

Barrier-Free TravelGlacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
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Explore Crater Lake National Park in a Wheelchair

Explore Crater Lake National Park in a Wheelchair

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View from the Watchman Overlook

Located at 7,100 feet along Southern Oregon’s Cascade Crest, Crater Lake was created over 7,700 years ago after a massive eruption of Mount Mazama. The resulting caldera filled with melted snow and rainwater, and subsequently the 1943-foot-deep lake took on a deep blue — if not somewhat ethereal — hue. Add in the surrounding cliffs that are nearly 2,000-feet high, two picturesque islands, and an old growth forest, and you have all the ingredients for a scenic national park experience. And although the lake itself isn’t wheelchair-accessible, there are many other areas in Crater Lake National Park (www.nps.gov/crla) that wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy.

The Rim Drive

View from the Phantom Ship Overlook

A good way to enjoy Crater Lake National Park is to take the 31-mile Rim Drive that circles the caldera. For the best windshield views take the drive in a counterclockwise direction starting on West Rim Drive. There are a number of overlooks and pullouts along the drive, but the windshield views are also spectacular.

Be sure and stop at Watchman Overlook, which offers an excellent view of Wizard Island. There’s accessible parking near the accessible vault toilet, with curb-cut access to a sidewalk over to the lower overlook. The upper overlook is only accessible by stairs or a steep path, but don’t fret if you can’t make it to the top, as you’ll catch some of the best views from the road. Cloudcap Overlook and Phantom Ship Overlook also offer some great windshield views of the lake. And don’t miss Vidae Falls on the last section of East Rim Drive, as this 100-foot waterfall can be easily seen from the pullout.

If you’d like to leave the driving to someone else, Crater Lake Trolley (craterlaketrolley.net) offers an accessible tour which travels along Rim Drive and stops at five to seven viewpoints. This two-hour tour departs from Rim Village, and the lift-equipped trolley has space for one wheelchair. At least 24-hours advance notice is required for wheelchair accessibility (541-882-1896). It should be noted that wheelchairs must be no wider than 28-inches and have a combined weight limit of no more than 400 pounds.

Explore the Forest

The Godfrey Glen Trail

Although the lake is the crown jewel of the park, the surrounding forest also offers some impressive vistas. To that end, one of the most accessible trails in the park– the Godfrey Glen Trail — is located near the south park entrance, on Munson Valley Road between Mazama Village and Park Headquarters.

This hard-packed dirt trail passes through an old growth hemlock and fir forest; and although there are some ruts and roots along the way, most are easy to dodge. The biggest obstacle along this 1.1-mile loop is the steep grade at the halfway point. Best bet it to travel in a clockwise direction, and double back when it gets too steep. Even if you can’t complete the whole trail, you’ll still get some nice canyon views along the way.

Pinnacles Road Trails

View from the First Overlook on the Pinnacles Trail

Although the Rim Drive is a must-do on any Crater Lake National Park visit, save some time to hop off-the-beaten-path and explore two accessible trails off of Pinnacles Road. Located on the south side of the lake, this seven-mile road begins near Phantom Ship Overlook, and runs out to Pinnacles Overlook, near the southeastern border of the park. The road and the overlook are named for the spire-like pumice formations that dot this river valley. Accessible parking is located next to the Pinnacles Trail, which offers a closer look at these unusual formations, that were created when hot volcanic gases shot up through the ash.

The Pinnacles Trail passes by several overlooks that offer good views of the formations. The hard-packed dirt trail is covered in crushed rock, and although it’s not entirely level, the undulations are doable for most wheelchair-users. Even if you can’t manage the whole half-mile hike to the park boundary, at least take the level 250-foot walk out to the first overlook. You won’t be disappointed.

The Plaikni Falls Trail, which is located near the beginning of Pinnacles Road is also worth a stop. Accessible parking is located near this trail that winds through an old growth forest to the base of the falls. That said, the last quarter-mile is extremely steep, and probably not doable for most wheelchair-users and slow walkers. On the other hand, the stroll through the forest is fairly level, and there are numerous wheelchair turn-outs and benches located along the way.

And although Pinnacles Road makes a nice outing, be forewarned that there are no accessible toilets at either trailhead. Best bet is to plan ahead and make a rest stop at White Bark Pine Picnic Area or the Crater Peak Trail Picnic Area before hitting the trails.

Rim Village

Sunrise on the Back Terrace at Crater Lake Lodge

Last, but certainly not least, save some time to enjoy the rim view on foot on the accessible section of the Rim Village Promenade. This level trail runs alongside the rim from the Rim Village Café and Gift Shop to the back terrace of Crater Lake Lodge. Accessible parking is located near the gift shop, with paved access to the trail behind the gift shop. When you get to the rim, make a right and continue along .3-miles until you hit the lodge.

Interpretive plaques are located along the way, and it’s the perfect spot for a selfie or two, as the views are grand. The trail is mostly paved, and undulating, with a slight change in elevation just past Kiser Studio. Still, most manual wheelchair-users can manage the grade with a little assistance. Alternatively, there’s ramp access down to the trail from the back terrace at Crater Lake Lodge. Either way, the views at both ends of the trail are equally impressive. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like hiking, then just sit and enjoy the lake view from the terrace. And, if you’d like to spend the night at the lodge, they do have a wheelchair-accessible room. (emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-wheelchair-accessible-crater-lake-lodge/). So pack your bags, and head to Crater Lake – it’s a great accessible destination.

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas
Barrier-Free TravelCalifornia National ParksRoad TripsTravel Ideasfor Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

Barrier-Free Travel
California National Parks
Road Trips
Travel Ideas
for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers

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glacier-3

Wheelchair-Accessible Glacier National Park Without a Car

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In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.

So what’s a traveler to do? Well if Glacier National Park (www.emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park) is on your bucket list, it’s now possible to enjoy a seamless accessible national park visit without a car, van, or even an airplane. Thanks to accessible rail connections, as well as a local network of accessible transportation providers, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now get to, get around and get out and enjoy Glacier National Park without a car.

All Aboard

The first step to visiting Glacier National Park without a car is finding accessible transportation. To that end, wheelchair-accessible rail service is available to Glacier National Park on Amtrak’s Empire Builder train that runs from Chicago to Spokane. The train stops in West Glacier and East Glacier, and also connects to Portland and Seattle from Spokane. The Empire Builder train features an on-board lift, but station lifts are also available at both Glacier park stations.

The east-bound train departs Seattle in the late afternoon and rolls into West Glacier the next morning. The west bound journey is considerably longer — it takes almost 30 hours to reach East Glacier from Chicago. And although the West Glacier station is open year-round, the East Glacier station is closed during the winter months.

Accessible shuttle service is available at both stations to select park lodges. On the west side, Xanterra operates an accessible shuttle to and from Lake McDonald Lodge and the Village Inn at Apgar (both of which have accessible rooms). For more information or to make shuttle reservations, call (855) 733-4522. The East Glacier Train Depot is conveniently located across the street from Glacier Park Lodge; however accessible transfers are available to lodge guests with 24-hours notice. This lodge also has wheelchair-accessible rooms. For more information, contact Pursuit at (844) 868-7474.

Getting Around Glacier

Getting around Glacier National Park without a car is fairly easy too, thanks to a number of accessible shuttles and tours. The National Park Service operates the  Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle on both the east and west sides of the park. The wheelchair-accessible shuttles depart from Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side and the St. Mary Visitor Center and the Rising Sun Picnic Area on the east side. It only operates during the summer months. Advance tickets are required for the shuttle, and they can be purchased at www.recreation.gov. 

It’s just a short walk to the shuttle stop at Apgar Visitor Center from the Village Inn at Apgar; and the East Side Shuttle connects Glacier Park Lodge guests with the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle at the St. Mary Visitor Center. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available with 24 hours notice on the East Side Shuttle (844-868-7474).

Take a Tour

Accessible Glacier Red Bus Tour vehicle

Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks also has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their fleet. These lift-equipped vehicles have two-wheelchair spaces with tie-downs, and can accommodate a total of 14 passengers.

The accessible tours generally follow the same itinerary as the standard tours; however they tend to spend more time at the accessible stops, such as the Trail of the Cedars and Logan Pass. The western tours depart from the Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, and the eastern tours depart from the St, Mary Visitor Center. For more information, visit www.glaciernationalparklodges.com, call (855-733-4522 or e-mail redbustours@xanterra.com.  Remember to book early though, as these popular tours sell out quickly.

Additionally, Glacier Sun Tours also offers tours of the west and east sides of Glacier National Park in air-conditioned vehicles during the summer months. The tours depart from Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. Tour guides are lifetime residents of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and they offer visitors a good overview of the natural history of the park, and also integrate their own tribal history and culture into the interpretation. Advance reservations are required, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request. For more information on Glacier Sun Tours offerings, visit www.suntours.co/.

Barrier-Free TravelGlacier, Yellowstoneand Grand Teton National Parksfor Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

Barrier-Free Travel
Glacier, Yellowstone
and Grand Teton National Parks
for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers

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Yosemite Entrance Reservations Not Required in 2026, But Plan Ahead!

Yosemite Entrance Reservations Not Required in 2026, But Plan Ahead!

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The powers that be just announced that Yosemite entrance reservations will not be required for the popular national park 2026. What does this mean? Well although visitors won’t have to buy a special entrance reservation permit for a specific time to gain entrance to the park, there will still be a few restrictions.

2026 Yosemite Entrance Plan

Although you will be able to pass through the entrance gate to Yosemite National Park without any additional documentation in 2026, the park will “will continue to utilize strong traffic management strategies to support visitor safety, access, and resource protection.” More specifically, “If Yosemite Valley reaches capacity, vehicles will be redirected to other areas of the park, including Wawona, the Mariposa Grove, Tuolumne Meadows, and Glacier Point Road.”

So what does that mean? Even though you will be able to get in the gate, you may not be able to access Yosemite Valley (where the bulk of the favorite attractions are) if there’s too much traffic. And with Yosemite Valley being a favorite destination, this could be a daily occurrence.

So, the best advice to visitors is to get an alpine (early) start if you are planning to visit Yosemite Valley. To be honest, that’s the best plan of action anyway, as the afternoon crowds tend to detract from the Yosemite experience. And if you want a real time update on parking , text YOSEMITE to 333111. Additionally, for information about wheelchair-accessible things to do in Yosemite, visit Accessible Yosemite.

And although it hasn’t been officially announced, it’s assumed that folks with campground and lodging reservations will be allowed access to their accommodations.

So, get there early, park your car and take the wheelchair-accessible Yosemite shuttle to enjoy Yosemite Valley.

 

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