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.
Thanks to the work of David’s Chair, loaner track chairs are now available at a number of Oregon (and Washington) locations. These rugged wheelchairs are outfitted with tank tracks instead of wheels and they can easily travel over sand and other obstacles found on inaccessible trails and beaches.
About the Track Chairs
Three types of track chairs are available — standing models, seated models and a youth chair. All have a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds. Although the majority of the chairs are available at fixed locations, there are also several several models in the tow-and-go program. This program includes a track chair in a ramped trailer that can be towed by a personal vehicle. Tow vehicles need to have a two-inch ball with a straight four-prong trailer hookup and safety chain hooks.
Advance reservations are required for all loaner track chairs, and a liability waiver must also be signed. Some locations offer limited time slots, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Reservations for fixed location chairs can only be made at davidschair.org/request-fixed-location-chair/, while reservations for tow-and-go track chairs can be made at davidschair.org/request-tow-n-go-chair/.
Track Chair Locations
Fixed Locations
Seaside Elks Lodge #1748
324 Avenue A
Seaside, OR 97138
This seated model can be only used at the beach, which is located 2.5 blocks from the lodge.
Manzanita Visitor Center
30 Laneda Avenue
Manzanita, OR 97130
This seated model can only be used at the the beach off of Laneda Avenue, which is a short roll from the visitor center.
Gold Beach Visitor Center
94080 Shirley Lane
Gold Beach, OR 97444
This seated model can only be used on the beach near the Gold Beach Visitor Center.
Heceta Beach County Park
88466 1st Avenue
Florence, OR 97439
This seated model can only be used on the beach north of Driftwood Shores Resort, which can be accessed by the Heceta Beach access point.
Don and Ann Davis Park
840 West Olive Street
Newport, OR 97565
This seated model can only be used to access the beach near Don and Ann Davis Park.
The Pelican (Cape Kiwanda Parking Lot)
33180 Cape Kiwanda Drive
Pacific City, OR 97135
This standing model can only be used to access Pacific City Beach from the nearby parking lot.
Mount Pisgash Arboretum
34901 Frank Parrish Road
Eugene, OR
This seated model can only be used at the Mount Pisgash Arboretum.
Lithia Park Cabin
340 S. Pioneer Street
Ashland, OR
This seated model can only be used in Lithia Park.
Westport by the Sea Condos
1600 W Ocean Ave
Westport, WA 98595
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
19255 SW Pacific Highway
Sherwood, OR 97140
Happy Camp Hideaways
825 Happy Camp Rd.
Tillamook OR 97141
This chair can only be used on the beach off 825 Happy Camp Road.
St Mary by the Sea Catholic Church
275 S. Pacific St.
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
This chair can only be used on the beach that can be accessed via the St Mary by the Sea parking lot.
Tow-and-Go Locations
White City
This location has a standing model, a seated model and a youth chair.
Coos Bay
This location has a seated model.
For more information about these programs, visit davidschair.org/.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Rasar State Park (https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/rasar-state-park) offers a peaceful taste of the forest with some great Skagit River views, a few barrier-free hikes, and several wheelchair-accessible deluxe camping cabins. This lush state park is located about 40 miles west of the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center in Newhalem, just off Highway 20. And with a second-growth forest filled with big-leaf maples, Douglas firs and western red cedars, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.
Stay in Style
If you’d like to spend the night in Rasar State Park, but don’t want to pitch a tent, then check out one of their three wheelchair-accessible deluxe camping cabins. There’s accessible parking in front of the accessible Chinook Cabin, with paved access over to the front porch. Outside there’s an accessible picnic table and a raised grill, and two oversized Adirondack chairs.
The cabin features a level threshold, wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access and laminate floors for easy rolling. There’s a small kitchen counter area, with a few cabinets and a sink, with a dinning table and four chairs next to it. The kitchen includes a microwave, a small refrigerator and a K Cup coffee maker (bring your own K Cups).
This rustic cabin features exposed beams and natural wood, and includes hand crafted log furniture. For sleeping, there’s a 16-inch high futon in the living area and a bunk bed near the bathroom. The bunk bed includes a 16-inch high double on the bottom and a single on the top. There’s a night table next to the bunk beds, and a floor lamp in the living area. Top it off with a roomy closet, overhead lights, heating and a ceiling fan, and you have a pretty comfortable setup.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and includes a 36-inch-square transfer-type shower, with a fold-down shower bench, a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated) and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.
The Coho Cabin, which is located next door has the same access features, but if you want more privacy, choose the Skagit Cabin across the road. On the plus side, all of the cabins are surrounded by the lush forest.
Living Area in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Bathroom in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Bedroom in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Take a Hike
Even though it’s fairly small, Rasar State Park offers a varied landscape with several accessible trails. Most of the trails are located in the south area of the park, near the Skagit River. There’s accessible parking near the picnic area, and level access over to the trailheads. There are also accessible picnic tables on the grass, if you’d like to stop for a short lunch break.
The paved Skagit River Access begins near the picnic area, and winds through the meadow out to the river. It’s about a .3-mile jaunt down to the river, and although you can walk a little further on the hard-packed sand beach, the wheelchair-access ends at that point. After that you’ll encounter steps, bumps, rocks, and a significant uphill climb. Still, it’s a nice accessible out-and-back trail to the river.
Skagit River Trail at Rasar State Park
The Cedar Trail also starts in the picnic area. This hard-packed dirt trail leads through a canopy of trees, before the access ends at the .25-mile point. Still it’s another nice out-and-back walk, and there are a few shaded picnic tables along the way.
Cedar Trail at Rasar State Park
Another accessible trail option is located on the north side of the park. This hard-packed dirt trail loops through the second-growth forest, past the cabins and group campsites. This 1.5-mile trail begins across the road from the Chinook Cabin and to the right of the Skagit Cabin, and continues past the group camps and the private lands that border the park. And if you’d like a shorter hike, it’s easy to exit the trail at the halfway point.
Finally, if you’d like to hike through some old growth forest nearby, be sure to check out Rockport State Park and Baker Lake for some accessible options. It’s a great way to extend a Rasar State Park Visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
If a trip across the pond is in your future, then make sure and get a Eurokey for access to wheelchair-accessible restrooms in many European countries. This universal key provides access to restrooms that have accessible toilets, lifts, and lifting platforms, which are usually locked for safety or maintenance reasons. This key allows travelers with a disability independent access to toilet facilities in Switzerland, Germany, Austria and many other European countries.
After you receive your key, be sure and download the Eurokey app. This handy resource gives users the locations and detailed information about accessible restrooms that can be accessed with this universal key.
For more information about this program, or details on the key ordering process, email info@eurokey.ch.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Because of increased visitation to many popular US National Parks, advance entrance reservations are now required during peak visitation periods. These reservations must be purchased in advance at www.recreation.gov, or by using the mobile app (https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app) or calling (877) 444-6777. They will not be available for purchase at the parks; and visitors who arrive without national park entrance reservations will be turned away. It’s a good idea to print or save a digital copy of your reservation on your phone, as cell service is not available at many national park entrance stations. A photo ID is also required, and it must match the name on the reservation.
Entrance reservations are not required if you have lodging, camping or tour reservations; however you must show confirmation of those reservations at the park entrance. Entrance reservations are required even if you have a national park pass. And if you don’t have a national park pass, you will still need to pay the entrance fee even if you have an entrance reservation. Questions about the entrance reservations can be directed to the specific national park you intend to visit.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2026 national park entrance reservations. More information will be posted as soon as it becomes available from the National Parks Service.
Mount Rainier National Park
No entrance reservations will be required for any part of Mount Rainier National Park in 2026.
Yosemite National Park
After a comprehensive review of the 2025 traffic patterns, Yosemite National Park officials announced that there will be no vehicle or day-use reservations required in Yosemite in 2026.
That said, advance planning is still necessary as they also announced that “While a season-long reservation system will not be implemented, the park will continue to utilize strong traffic management strategies to support visitor safety, access, and resource protection. 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.”
In short, just because you get past the entrance gate, doesn’t mean you will be able to access Yosemite Valley. It should be noted that Yosemite Valley is home to the bulk of the popular visitor attractions like Yosemite Falls and the miles of bicycle paths that wind through the valley. So plan to get to Yosemite Valley early to avoid disappointment. Here are some suggestions to beat the crowds and make the most of your Yosemite visit in 2026 (www.emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-yosemite-what-you-need-to-know-for-a-2026-visit/).
Visitors with camping or hotel reservations will be allowed access to their accommodations.
For real-time parking updates, text YOSEMITE to 333111. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment!
Acadia National Park
Vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac Summit Road in Acadia National Park from May 20, 2026 to October 25, 2026. This scenic three-mile drive leads up to highest peak in the park. The Island Explorer Bus does not run along this road, so they only way to access it during peak visitation times is by a personal vehicle with the appropriate vehicle reservation. Recreational vehicles, trailers and vehicles over 21 feet long are prohibited along this road.
There are two type of vehicle reservations available – Daytime Reservations and Sunrise Reservations.
Daytime Reservations have a 30-minute entry window, while Sunrise Reservations have a 90-minute entry window. Sunrise times range from from 4:45 AM in mid-June to 6:15 AM in mid-October.
Thirty percent of the Daytime Reservations and Sunrise Reservations will be available for purchase at 10 AM (ET) 90 days prior to the reservation date. The remaining 70 percent of the Daytime Reservations and Sunrise Reservations will be available for purchase at 10 AM (ET) two days prior to the reservation date.
One Daytime Reservation is allowed per day, and one Sunrise Reservation is allowed per seven days.
Daytime Reservations and Sunrise Reservations are priced at $6 each. A park entrance pass is required along with the vehicle reservation. It’s also important to note that vehicle reservations do not guarantee a parking space, and parking is prohibited outside of designated spaces.
Arches National Park
Arches National Park has lifted the timed entry reservation requirement for 2026. That said, when the parking lots fill, they will close their gates for 3-5 hours. Official advice is to arrive before 8 AM or after 4 PM for the best shot at snagging a parking space.
Glacier National Park
Vehicle reservations will not be required anywhere in Glacier National Park in 2026. That said, new parking restrictions are in place for Logan Pass, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle will require advance tickets.
Logan Pass Parking
All private vehicles will only be allowed to park at Logan Pass for a maximum of three hours. Overnight parking will not be permitted, except for visitors with a backcountry permit or for guests of Granite Park Chalet.
Going-to-the-Sun-Road Shuttles
Shuttles to Logan pass are no longer free, and they will not pick up passengers who do not have tickets. Tickets are not available in the park and they must be purchased in advance at www.recreation.gov. All passengers aged two and up will need a ticket in order to board the shuttle. There will be a $1 processing fee for each ticket.
Starting on May 2, 2026 at 8 AM MDT Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle tickets will be available for purchase 60 days in advance at www.recreation.gov. The remaining tickets will be available at 7 PM MDT, for next day entry beginning on June 30, 2026.
West side routes will provide express service to Logan Pass, departing from Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge with stops at the Loop (in the afternoon) and Logan Pass only. West side shuttles will not make stops at Avalanche in 2026. If you wish to explore the Trail of the Cedars or Avalanche Lake you must have a private vehicle.
The East side routes will provide express service to Logan Pass, departing from St. Mary Visitor Center and Rising Sun.
And as in previous years, shuttle riders will be able to transfer between routes at Logan Pass.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park are required to have a timed entry permit to enter the park beginning May 22, 2026. There are two Rocky Mountain Entry Permits.
The Timed Entry Permit will allow access to all areas of the park, except the Bear Lake Corridor. It will be valid from 9 AM to 2 PM. It is required until October 12, 2026. All permits will be timed, and will require the permit holder to enter the park within a 2 hour window.
The Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road Permit will allow entry to the Bear Lake Corridor, as well as the rest of the park. It will be valid from 5 AM to 6 PM. It is required until October 18, 2026. Once you enter the park, you can stay as long as you like; however if you try to enter the park outside of your two-hour designated entry time (ie: you arrive late), you will be told to turn around and return after 2 PM.
Both entry reservations can be purchased at www.recreation.gov. There is a $2 charge for each reservation. If you plan to visit the park for more than one day, you will need an entry permit for each day.
Reservations for the majority of the permits will be released on 8 AM MDT on the following dates.
May 1, 2026 for permits from May 22 to June 30
June 1, 2026 for permits for the month of July
July 1, 2026 for permits for the month of August
August 1, 2026 for permits for the month of September
September 1, 2026 for permits for the month of October
The remaining entry permits will be available for purchase at 7 p.m. the day before the planned visit.
Carlsbad Caverns
Last but not least on the list of national park entrance reservations is Carlsbad Caverns. Although technically you don’t need a reservation to get in to the park, you do need one if you actually want to see the famous caverns.
Every person — even children — needs a timed ticket to enter the caves. Tickets are good for entrance from the entrance time to the closing time of the caverns (2:30 PM). So for example, if you have an 11:00 reservation, it is good from 11:00 to 2:30.
These tickets are priced at $1 each, and they are available at www.recreation.gov. And again, make sure you print out your tickets or save a screen shot of them, as cell service is spotty in the park. Walk-up tickets are usually available; however they do sell out on busy days, so it’s best to purchase them in advance.
Plan ahead to avoid disappointment, and get your national park entrance reservations as soon as you make your travel plans.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), US airlines are required to accept service animals on all their flights. Additionally, foreign air carriers are required to accept service animals on all flights to and from the US. Psychiatric service animals are treated the same as service animals under the ACAA. And, after the ACAA update in 2021, airlines are no longer required to accommodate emotional support animals. They are now treated as pets and are subject to pet rules and additional charges. So here’s what you need to know about flying with a service animal.
What is a Service Animal?
Under the law, a service animal is defined as a dog that is trained to do a specific task or tasks for a person with a disability. Miniature horses are no longer accepted under the ACAA. And under no circumstances are US airlines required to accept unusual species, such as snakes, other reptiles, ferrets, rodents and spiders. Foreign carriers, that fly to and from the US are also required to accept dogs as service animals.
Service animals must be at least four months old; and air carriers are not required to accept service animals in training. There are no breed or weight restrictions; and although most passengers only travel with one service animal, two are allowed if they perform different tasks for the passenger. Additionally, airlines cannot restrict the number of service animals on any flight.
What Documentation is Required?
Airlines can require passengers flying with a service animal to submit DOT designed forms that attest to the service animal’s health, behavior and training. Additionally they can require attestation that the service animal will not need to relieve itself, or can relieve itself in a sanitary manner, on flights over eight hours. This documentation must be submitted at least 48 hours prior to departure; however if you make a last-minute booking it may be submitted at the airport. If you need to submit it at the airport, allow extra time for the process.
Although most airlines process these DOT forms seamlessly on their own websites, a few use third-party vendors to accomplish this task. And although the same 48-hour advance notice is required, sometimes it’s difficult for third-party vendors to process the forms within this time frame. Check the airline website and allow yourself plenty of extra time if they use a third-party vendor.
Airline personnel are also allowed to seek credible verbal assurance from passengers that they have a disability and require a service animal. If the passenger’s disability is not apparent, airline personnel may question the passenger to determine their need for a service animal, even if the animal has a harness, tag or vest. And finally, if the airline refuses to accept an animal as a service animal, they must explain the reason, and provide written documentation of that decision within 10 days.
Have a U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form (completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian) or USDA -endorsed export certificate
Have a completed CDC Import Form receipt
Dogs entering the US must receive the rabies vaccine at least 28 days before entry. It’s recommended that handlers carry duplicate copies of all forms, in case border agents need to retain a copy. Additionally, if a dog is deemed to have a contagious disease by border agents, then additional testing, examination and isolation may be required at the owner’s expense.
These requirements are for animals that are visiting or returning from rabies-free countries. There are additional requirements for animals coming from high-risk rabies countries. For more information about the CDC requirements, visit https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/enter-the-us.html.
In the Air
Passengers who fly with service animals are allowed to preboard the aircraft; and the service animal must remain tethered and under the passenger’s control for the entire flight.
Passengers who fly with a service animal are guaranteed bulkhead seating under the ACAA; however they are permitted to sit anywhere on the aircraft, except the emergency exit rows. The service animal must not obstruct the aisle or other areas that must remain clear under FAA safety rules. Additionally, the service animal must fit in the handler’s lap or in their foot space, and it must not encroach on another passengers space. If this is a problem, the airline must allow the handler and the service animal to move to another seat where the animal can be accommodated; however they are not required to upgrade the passenger.
Last but not least, service animals must behave appropriately aboard the aircraft, which is usually not an issue for properly trained service animals. And when the airplane lands, airlines are required to provide service animal relief areas for passengers with a service animal. For more information about the updated ACAA that went into effect in 2021, visit https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-382
Other Considerations
Last but not least, it’s important to understand that most foreign countries also have specific health requirements for all animals — including service animals — that enter the country. This is in addition to any DOT requirements for service animals. For example, even though the DOT forms require information about the animal’s rabies vaccination status, an additional health certificate may be required at the port of entry. Every country is different, and these requirements change often. For more information on specific country requirements, visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/take-pet-to-foreign-country. Do your research and plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
A California redwoods road trip (emerginghorizons.com/explore-californias-wheelchair-accessible-coastal-redwoods/) is a relaxing and enchanting getaway. And although there’s no shortage of places to hike around these majestic trees, driving through a massive redwood is an entirely different experience. And although it’s not standard forest practice today, at one time drive-through trees were a popular tourist attractions. That said, there are still a few places where you enjoy this kitschy experience; so check out these retro drive-through trees on your next Northern California road trip.
Klamath Tour-Thru Tree
Klamath Tour-Thru Tree
Located a quarter-mile off Highway 101, the Klamath Tour-Thru Tree is easy to find. Just take exit 769 (Tewar Valley), then turn east. The tree is just up the road on the left. Like all the drive-through trees, you pay an entrance fee at the kiosk and then follow the road and drive through the giant tree. It should be noted that it’s a pretty tight fit for most vehicles, as the tree tunnel is just 88 inches wide and 114 inches tall, so remember to turn in your mirrors if possible.
The tree tunnel was completed in 1976, and the massive redwood is estimated to be 785 years old. It’s really a quick trip through the tunnel, but for another perspective on the tree, open your sun roof as you pass through. Additionally, it’s best to hit this drive-through tree early in the morning, as there isn’t much room near the tree and traffic can get pretty congested in the afternoon.
Shrine Tree
Shrine Tree
The next drive-through tree is located about 120 miles south, along the scenic Avenue of the Giants. Continue south on Highway 101, then take exit 674 in Pepperwood and turn left. Follow this scenic byway through the redwoods until you get to Myers Flat, where you’ll find the Shrine Tree on the right.
Although a tad bit larger than the Klamath Tour-Through Tree, this 3,000 year old redwood has an equally tight 91-inch wide clearance. Unlike the other drive-through trees though, the 175-foot tall Shrine Tree has a natural opening rather than a man-made one. And although the drive through the tree is short but sweet, there are also a few carvings in the park to enjoy, as well as a level picnic area.
Chandelier Tree
Chandelier Tree
The final drive-through tree on the itinerary is located another 50 miles south in the town of Leggett. Follow the Avenue of the Giants until it ends on Highway 101, then continue south to Drive Through Tree Road and follow the signs to the Chandelier Tree (www.drivethrutree.com).
As you approach this giant, the fern lined drive to the 315-foot tall tree is filled with redwood planters. The tunnel was carved in the mid 1930s, and the tree is estimated to be 2,400 years old. It’s the nicest of the three trees, as there’s a large dirt parking area, and also standard picnic tables on a level grassy area. So pack along a picnic to enjoy after your drive-through experience, and enjoy your meal in the shadow of the towering redwood. And truly, if you only have time for one drive-through experience, the Chandelier Tree is the best choice. Not only is there plenty of room near the tree for photos, but there’s also a large area to linger on and enjoy it all.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Parks Road Trips Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located just outside the West Entrance to Glacier National Park (emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park/), West Glacier Cabin Village (www.glacierparkcollection.com/lodging/west-glacier-village/ways-to-stay/west-glacier-cabins/) makes the perfect home base for a national park visit. This quiet cabin complex boasts the best of both worlds, as it’s far removed from the hubbub of West Glacier Village, yet it’s within easy walking distance of the shops and restaurants. Access wasn’t overlooked in the construction of the units either, as the complex includes two wheelchair-accessible cabins, which makes it an excellent lodging choice for slow walkers and wheelchair-users.
West Glacier Cabin Village
Nestled in a peaceful mountain forest, West Glacier Cabin Village features accessible parking next to the campstore, with level access to the entrance. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair over to the cabin check-in counter.
Accessible cabin 103 is located next door. There’s parking in a large level area across from the cabin, and level access over to the cabin. The cabin features ramp access up to a covered front porch that’s furnished with a small table and two chairs. There’s also a propane grill near the cabin.
The cabin features a level threshold, and includes wide doorways, good pathway access and wood floors. The large living area is furnished with a 13-inch high sleeper sofa, a television, and a dining table with four chairs. The cabin also has reliable Wi-Fi, which is a hard-to-find feature in the area.
The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, a two burner cooktop, a lowered microwave, and a dishwasher. It also includes an ample selection of dishes, utensils and cookware. And to complete the access equation, the kitchen sink features a kneehole for wheelchair access.
The bedroom, which is located in the back of the unit, is furnished with a 24-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair-access on the right side (as you face it). The bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a padded fold-down shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror.
And if cabin 103 is booked, cabin 104 has the same access features. Either unit makes a comfortable, homey and accessible place to stay near Glacier National Park.
Living Room in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Dining Area in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Kitchen Area in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Bedroom in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Bedroom in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village (view 2)
Toilet and Sink in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Shower in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Times are a changing and technology is making things possible today that we never thought could happen. But will people ever be able to board an airline in their own wheelchair and stay in it for the entire flight? Well things are moving forward, and that’s good, but it’s not going nearly as quickly as some people have hoped. So here’s an update on where we stand on flying in your own wheelchair.
The Regulations
When I last covered flying in your own wheelchair, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was set to review their regulations by 2025 (https://emerginghorizons.com/flying-in-your-wheelchair-when-will-it-really-happen/). This is really the most crucial first step, as if the FAA won’t allow it, then it’s a no-go from the start.
The majority of airplanes have a boarding door large enough to accommodate most personal wheelchairs.
Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 models would only require modest interior modifications to create a wheelchair securement area at the front of the cabin.
Many personal wheelchairs comply with the crash performance standards (WC19) established by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).
The report recommended that the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA establish a research program in collaboration with RESNA to test and evaluate a selection of WC19-compliant wheelchairs in accordance with applicable FAA crashworthiness and safety performance criteria. It also recommended that the Access Board sponsor further studies to assess the demand for this service. There is no timeline for these recommendations.
So, in other words, more studies, and no definitive implementation date.
So, unfortunately we are quite a ways away from the reality of anyone flying in their own wheelchair.
Airbus Progress – A Concept Design
Even though the regulations at this point are up in the air (no pun intended) one company is moving forward with a workable design to accommodate personal wheelchairs aboard their commercial aircraft – Airbus.
Airbus has created a new concept design — The Airspace U Suite — which would not only accommodate passengers in their own wheelchairs, but also serve as a premium space for other passengers. This universal design concept will most likely appeal to airlines who don’t want to designate valuable space for wheelchair-users, only for it to sit empty when not in use. And not only will it not sit empty, but the airlines will be able to charge a premium for this spacious seating compartment.
The Airbus U Suite will not only accommodate a person in their own wheelchair, but it’s being billed as space for.
Travelers who want to lay down and take a nap
A family space
A business space for an in-flight meeting
In short, it’s universal design in the air.
The Airbus team has taken their first test flight with a wheelchair-user, and they hope to have the concept ready to produce by 2032. And their Airspace U Suite was on prominent display at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg last month.
So the design end of things is falling together nicely; but again, that’s only one piece of of an incredibly complex puzzle. Even if they are able to produce the design as expected, it won’t be available to wheelchair-users until the FAA – and worldwide regulatory agencies – approve it. And perhaps that’s why Airbus has included the universal design concept, so it can be used for other travelers in the meantime.
The Reality
The Airspace U Suite looks like a great design, but the question is, what will it cost passengers? Will it be a premium space like first class, or will it be an affordable space for wheelchair-users? That of course remains to be seen, but it does look like it will be a premium ($$) space, located in the front of the aircraft. Still there are plenty of folks with the means to pay for this space. And maybe this is just a first step to create more affordable accessible spaces on aircraft.
And accessibility – when and if it begins – will only be for larger aircraft at first. But that’s good because it’s those longer flights can be the most problematic for wheelchair-users. Even if you use your own wheelchair cushion on the flight, it’s still not the same, and skin issues can develop.
And finally, let’s remember that there’s nothing in the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) that requires seating in your own wheelchair on airplanes. That would take a lot of additional work and new regulations. Most likely if anything, the Access Board would allow but not require it. Just like the fact that airlines are allowed to, but not required to, provide on-board medical oxygen.
But still, it’s a start. As the folks at Airbus said, “So we started the process” to develop more accessible solutions and “we are in the middle of it.”
But I’m happy to see research and development moving forward for flying in your own wheelchair. And to put things in perspective, in my lifetime, prior to the ACAA, airlines made wheelchair-users sit on towels because they were afraid they would soil the seats. And they made a big deal about it. So, honestly, I’m really happy with any progress. But again, it will be a while, and unfortunately, probably not in my lifetime.
The North Cascades Scenic Byway is much more than a utilitarian route. Sure it connects North Cascades National Park with points east and west, but it also offers a scenic drive with a few old growth forest wheelchair-accessible hikes along the way. So next time you are tooling along Highway 20 west of North Cascades National Park, be sure and stop for these two wheelchair-accessible big trees trails.
Rockport State Park
Along the West Interpretive Loop in Rockport State Park
First up is the West Interpretive Loop in Rockport State Park (https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/rockport-state-park). It’s located along Highway 20, about 25 miles west of Newhalem. This 1.4-mile round-trip hike offers a beautiful stroll through a wheelchair-accessible slice of an old growth forest.
There’s accessible parking near the picnic area, with level access over to the accessible restroom. From the picnic area, follow the trail west for .2-mile until you get to a junction with a signpost. From there, take a right (away from the Sauk Spring Trail) and continue on the Evergreen Trail for another .2 miles until you get to the West Interpretive Loop.
The .6-mile hard-packed dirt trail is covered in crushed rock, and is wide enough to accommodate even large wheelchairs. It’s not a flat trail, but it’s certainly within the ADA trail standards. The undulating trail leads through the lush forest filled with Douglas firs, western red cedars and western hemlocks. There are interpretive plaques along the way, and this shady forest stroll is the perfect place to cool off a hot afternoon. When you complete the loop, head back to the picnic area on the Evergreen Trail. As an added bonus, it’s not a crowded park, so you will probably have the trail to yourself.
Baker Lake
View from Panorama Point at Baker Lake
After you’ve completed the Western Interpretive Loop, continue west on Highway 20 to Concrete, then head north to the Shadow of the Sentinels at Baker Lake (https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mbs/recreation/baker-lake). It’s located about 15 miles off Highway 20, but it’s definitely worth the short detour. The trailhead is located in a small pullout, just before the turnoff to Horseshoe Grove Campground. You can’t miss it, as there’s a cross section of a large old growth tree in the parking lot.
Shadow of the Sentinels Trail
There’s accessible parking near the trailhead, and at the other end of the lot near the accessible vault toilet. This .5-mile loop trail begins as a boardwalk through the old growth forest, and transitions back-and-forth between that and an asphalt trail and a hard-packed dirt trail. There’s a slight elevation gain along the way, but it’s well within the standards. The boardwalk is in excellent repair, and although there are a few frost heaves in the asphalt, they are pretty easy to dodge.
The trail is lined with Douglas firs and western hemlocks, with interpretive plaques along the way. There are a number of downed trees and snags in the adjacent forest, and if you’d like to take a break there are a few benches on the trail. There are also a few side trails to viewpoints in the forest, and one to an extra large Douglas fir tree. It’s estimated that some of the trees in this grove are nearly 700 years old.
Shadow of the Sentinels Trail
As an added bonus, the drive up to Baker Lake is beautiful. And if you’d like to sneak a peek at at Baker Lake and the Cascades, then head over to the Panorama Point boat launch or drive down to the end of Mount Baker Dam Road. It’s the perfect way to end this North Cascades scenic outing.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located about an hour from the East Entrance to America’s first national park, Cody is an excellent addition to a Yellowstone (emerginghorizons.com/yellowstone-national-park/) road trip. With daily gunfights, western entertainment and a nightly Rodeo, this Wyoming town has a definite wild west ambiance. And why not, as it was named after Buffalo Bill Cody, who once roamed the streets of this wild west town. And despite its historic nature, this Wyoming village is also a good option for slow walkers and wheelchair-users who want to extend their Yellowstone vacation. So check out this accessible place to rest your head, as well as a few of these popular sites on your next Yellowstone visit.
Spend the Night
Cabin 365 at Buffalo Bill Village
Located near the center of town, Buffalo Bill Village (www.buffalobillvillage.com/) is a good place to spend the night. Although it was originally constructed to house work crews that built the city, today this historic property boasts modern amenities and includes a wheelchair-accessible cabin.
There’s accessible parking in the front lot, with level access over to the registration building and gift shop. Room 365, which is a stand-alone cabin, is located a short drive away, near the back of the complex. There’s accessible parking near the sidewalk that leads over to the cabin, and ramp access to the front door. Inside, there’s good pathway access in the spacious cabin, that’s furnished with two 26-inch high queen-sized beds, a sofa, chest of drawers and a table with two chairs.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius, with plenty of room for larger wheelchairs and scooters. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. The toilet is in a 36-inch wide alcove with grab bars on both sides. Other access features include a roll-under sink and a portable shower chair.
Buffalo Bill Village is not only accessible, but it’s also located well away from the street, so it’s pretty quiet. Add in a top-notch staff, and you have everything you could possible need.
Inside Cabin 365
Bathroom in Cabin 365
Explore Cody
Largest Surviving Poster from Buffalo Bill’s Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West
Plan to spend at least one full day in town, as there’s no shortage of fun diversions, At the top of the list is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (centerofthewest.org/). This expansive museum has five old west galleries, including the impressive Buffalo Bill Museum. Other galleries include the Whitney Western Art Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum and the Draper Natural History Museum — all of which present a comprehensive picture of the old west.
There’s accessible parking in front of the museum, with level access over to the main entrance. Inside there’s barrier-free access to all of the galleries, the gift shop and the cafe.. And if you find the distance in the museum a little daunting, manual wheelchairs are available for loan at the front desk.
Another fun attraction in town is the Cody Gunfight (www.codytrolleytours.com/cody-gunfight). This free performance is held daily (except Sundays) at 6 PM in front of the historic Irma Hotel. It’s a fun show, but get there early as it’s extremely popular. The ground is level in front of the hotel, and there’s good access for wheelchair-users in the viewing area. Alternatively, reserved seating is available for just $3.
Barrel Racer at the Cody Night Rodeo
Last but certainly not least, don’t miss the Cody Night Rodeo (www.codystampederodeo.com/). There’s plenty of accessible parking at Stampede Park, with a level pathway to the accessible seating in the south grandstand. It’s a very patriotic family event, with lots of up-and-coming talent in the arena. The kids in the audience even get a shot at a little hands-on rodeo fun, so it’s a great hit for families. Presented during the summer months, this fun event is a real crowd pleaser, and it’s the perfect way to top off a Cody wild west visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), US airlines are required to accept service animals on all their flights. Additionally, foreign air carriers are required to accept service animals on all flights to and from the US. Psychiatric service animals are treated the same as service animals under the ACAA. And, after the ACAA update in 2021, airlines are no longer required to accommodate emotional support animals. They are now treated as pets and are subject to pet rules and additional charges. So here’s what you need to know about flying with a service animal.
