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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Watchable Wildlife in Custer State Park

Watchable Wildlife in Custer State Park

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Pronghorn in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Although Custer State Park (gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/) is primarily known for its sizable bison population, this South Dakota favorite also boasts a healthy mixture of other wildlife. From prairie dogs and burros, to elk and even bighorn sheep, there’s no shortage of animal life in the park. And although Custer State Park occupies a whopping 71,000 acres of Black Hills real estate, the southern section of the park is the ground zero for watchable wildlife. Not only is the scenic Wildlife Loop Drive located in this section of the park, but there’s also a visitor center and the Bison Center along the way. And since it’s just a short drive from Badlands National Park, it’s a great addition to any South Dakota road trip.

Drive She Said

Feral burros on the Wildlife Loop Trail in Custer State Park

The best place to start your wildlife adventure is at the Custer State Park Visitor Center, which is located at the intersection of Wildlife Loop Road and Highway 164. There’s accessible parking and level access to the main building, which houses exhibits and a theater. And if you need directions or have a few questions, there are plenty of folks available to help.

After you get your bearings, hop on the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Drive, which runs from the visitor center to the Bell Station Entrance. It takes about 45 minutes to complete the drive as the speed is limited to 25 mph; but that time is variable due to wildlife — especially bison — that sometimes linger on the road. Basically, you’re on their timetable — whenever they decide to move, so can you. But then again, that’s part of the fun.

There are lots of pullouts along the drive, and you can get some great windshield views without getting out of your vehicle. The route travels through pastures and forests, with a prairie dog village along the way. And be on the lookout for bighorn sheep which sometimes linger near the road. Then there are the feral burros, which can be overly curious and bold.

Prairie Dog on the Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park

The Wildlife Station Visitor Center is located about eight miles from the beginning of the loop. Unfortunately the old CCC building only has steps up to it; however there are accessible vault toilets and an accessible inside picnic area near the parking area. Consider it a shady spot to stop for lunch.

Of course there are no guarantees on how much wildlife you’ll spot along Wildlife Loop Drive, but for optimum game viewing hit the road early in the morning or just before sunset.

Visit the Bison Center

Buffalo in Custer State Park

Make sure and stop at the new Bison Center, which is located about two miles from the Wildlife Station Visitor Center. There’s accessible parking near the entrance, with level access to the building. Inside, there are exhibits which trace the history of the 1,500-head buffalo herd, which are descendants of the 36 head that were introduced in 1936. As the herd grew, it outgrew the available forage, so a yearly roundup (emerginghorizons.com/head-over-to-the-custer-buffalo-roundup/) was instituted to keep the population in check. Interactive exhibits at the Bison Center show how the buffalo are inoculated and what animals are sold, and how licensed hunters also help prevent overpopulation.

And if you’ve every wondered what the correct term is — buffalo or bison — there’s an exhibit which answers that question too. In short, both are considered correct. Buffalo is the French word for beef animal, while bison is the scientific name. And for the most part, buffalo is the preferred term in the park.

Cowboy at the Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park

There’s also level access to the gift shop at the Bison Center, where you’ll find a number of buffalo-themed items. And there’s a level dirt path to the buffalo paddocks which are located on the far side of the parking lot. Take some time to check them out as you may see a few buffalo there; however there are more animals present at Buffalo Roundup time. All in all the Bison Center offers a good overview of one of the world’s largest publicly owned buffalo herds. Plan ahead though, as the Bison Center is only open from Memorial Day to the end of September.

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

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Glacier, Yellowstone
and Grand Teton National Parks
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Park Your Car and Ride the Calaveras Hopper

Park Your Car and Ride the Calaveras Hopper

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It’s fun to go wine tasting with friends on the weekend. But then you have that age-old problem — who is going to be the designated driver? Of course you could always make a promise to limit your consumption, but sometimes that just doesn’t work. Well, if you happen to be visiting Murphys or Angels Camp on a Saturday, there is another solution — take the Hopper. This short shuttle route connects the two cities and even makes a stop at Ironstone Vineyards. And the good news is, they will also go a little off route with advance notice. So pack your bag, gather your friends, and get ready to enjoy a wine tasting weekend on the Calaveras Hopper.

The Basics

The Calaveras Hopper only runs on Saturdays from 10 AM to 6 PM. But that’s OK, as that’s when the tasting rooms do the bulk of their business. There’s about an hour wait between buses, and the schedules are posted at all hopper stops as well as at calaverasconnect.org/routes/saturday-hopper/. This route is also seasonal — it only operates from March to November.

The fare is a very reasonable $3 (seniors are half price). Drivers do not carry change so the exact fare is required if you pay cash. You can also pay with the Token Transit app, which is available from the App Store, Google Play, or by texting “token” to 41411.

Access is excellent on the Calaveras Hopper, with lift access and wheelchair spaces available. The drivers are also pretty friendly, and are happy to offer assistance if needed.

The route begins in Angels Camp and travels on Highway 4 to Murphys. It makes six stops along the way:

  • Travelodge Copello (Angels Camp)
  • WorldMark (Angels Camp)
  • Save Mart (Angels Camp)
  • Angels Camp Visitor Center (Angels Camp)
  • Murphys Creek Theater (Murphys)
  • Ironstone Vineyards (Murphys)

Murphys Creek Theater is just around the corner from several tasting rooms, and Ironstone Vineyards is a destination in itself. And if you want to get picked up at another spot with ¾ mile of the route, then call (209) 754-4450 at least two hours in advance. Additionally, drivers will usually stop at any safe location along the route. So enjoy a little Saturday wine tasting in Calaveras County, and leave the driving to the Hopper.

 

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

Barrier-Free Travel
Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon
National Parks
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Wheelchair-Accessible Road Trip Tips

Wheelchair-Accessible Road Trip Tips

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Route 66 near Oatman, Arizona

Road trips take a lot of planning. From plotting out the most scenic route, to finding quirky roadside attractions and unique lodging options, the devil is definitely in the details. And although everyone should plan for emergency situations, wheelchair-users and slow walkers need to take extra care in the planning process, to make sure they don’t end up stranded on the road. With that in mind, here are some helpful resources and tips to help you plan a successful wheelchair-accessible road trip.

Plan for Emergencies

  • Emergency road service is essential for any road trip, but very few towing companies have wheelchair-accessible tow trucks. Enter Mobility Roadside Assistance (mobilityroadsideassistance.com). Not only does this company provide all the standard auto club services; but if your vehicle needs to be towed they will also dispatch an accessible vehicle to transport you to the garage. Additionally, they can even dispatch a technician to repair your ramp, lift, wheelchair or scooter.
  • If you drive an adapted vehicle, consider what you would do if you had problems with your ramp, lift or hand controls. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (nmeda.org) has a great database of dealers that are qualified to work on adapted vehicles. Check out their website before you travel to find repair shops along your route.

Know Your Resources

  • Many states are part of the 511 network that provides updated information on traffic conditions. Find out if this service is available along your route (ops.fhwa.dot.gov/511/).
  • Most national parks also have updated road closure information on their websites, and many even have dedicated traffic information phone numbers. These updates usually have the most recent information as they are maintained by in-park personnel.
  • Look to newer fast food restaurants for the best accessible restrooms. Most fast food restaurants are consistent in their restroom design; so find a chain that has the access features you need, and stick with it.
  • If your hotel bathroom isn’t as accessible as you expected on your wheelchair-accessible road trip, stop by a Pilot-Flying J truck stop (pilotflyingj.com). Most have accessible shower rooms with roll-in showers; and although there is a charge to use them, it’s a good alternative in a pinch.

Pack Along These Essentials

  • Pack along a can of Fix-A-Flat tire inflator. It’s a quick and easy way to repair a flat, and it beats waiting for the tow truck.
  • Duct tape is also a glove box essential. Not only can it provide a temporary fix for a leaky radiator hose, but it also comes in handy for on-the-spot wheelchair repairs.
  • A wheelchair repair kit is also essential when you hit the road. And if you need a repair to your wheelchair tire, head to the nearest bicycle shop.
  • Get your America the Beautiful Pass (emerginghorizons.com/how-to-get-a-lifetime-national-park-pass/), as it’s good for free admission to national parks and monuments across America.
  • Don’t forget to take your accessible parking placard with you when you hit the road, as it’s valid throughout the US, except in some places in New York City. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult the FIA World Parking Guide (disabledmotorists.eu/en/home/) for disabled parking regulations in different states.
  • Finally, don’t forget to pack your sense of humor on your wheelchair-accessible road trip. Be flexible and don’t stress out if things don’t go exactly the way you planned them. After all, travel is all about experiencing new things.
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22 Accessible Road Trips
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belton-chalet-4

Historic Belton Chalet Boasts Modern Access Features

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Belton Chalet

The Great Northern Railroad played an essential role in the development of the infrastructure of Glacier National Park (emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park/). After the park was established, the railroad quickly promoted “America’s Alps” and built Swiss chalet style accommodations to house the well-heeled park visitors. Of course these chalets had plenty of western touches on the interior to remind folks that this was truly an American experience. Gladly many of those properties have survived over the years and still welcome guests today.

Historic West Glacier Train Station located across from the Belton Chalet

Belton Chalet (glacierparkcollection.com) is one of those properties. Built in 1910 — the same year that Glacier National Park was established — this property is conveniently located across the street from the historic West Glacier Train Station. Now a National Landmark, Belton Chalet makes a great stop for rail buffs, and a comfortable overnight stay for everyone. And although the historic building exudes a definite charm of yesteryear, it’s also equipped with modern day access features. As a result, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now take a step back in time and spend the night in this historic national park chalet.

Belton Chalet

The property is located in West Glacier, off of Highway 2, behind the Belton Tap Room. Just look for the train station across the street. There’s accessible parking with ramp access up to the front door, and plenty of room to roll around on the deck. Inside, the lobby is dominated by a large stone fireplace, with good pathway access over to the front desk. There’s also a large accessible family restroom located near the front desk.

Room 21, which is an accessible queen, is located just off the lobby. It features wide doorways, and wood floors for easy rolling. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face it), a desk, two chairs, a chest of drawers and a bedside table. Add in the wooden windows, vintage coat hooks, and the transom over the bathroom door for that early 1900s charm. And there’s a real door key — no plastic key cards for this property. As an added bonus, there are no TVs or other electronic distractions in this vintage room. Additionally, Room 21 is especially suited for slow walkers, as it’s just a short distance from the parking area to the room.

Room 21 at Belton Chalet

The oversized bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius, and is equipped with a large transfer-type shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. There is about a three inch lip on the shower pan, but there’s plenty of room to transfer to the shower bench from the bathroom. Other access features include toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink.

Bathroom in room 21 at Belton Chalet

The Extras

This property is a must-see for anyone who is interested in railroad history as the hallways are lined with vintage posters and calendars of the Empire Builder. And there’s level access to the deck, where you can see — and hear — the trains pass through. As an added bonus the accessible room is located on the quieter back side of the property; however ear plugs are provided should the passing trains present a problem.

Next door, there’s also level access to the Belton Tap Room from the accessible parking spot. Even if you don’t have dinner there, you’ll want to make sure and listen for the evening Empire Builder train, as the staff lines the restaurant balconies to welcome arriving guests. It’s a page out of railroad history. The train usually rolls in between 9:30 and 10:00 in the evening, but delays are always possible. And if you do decide to have a bite to eat a the Tap Room, reservations are highly recommended.

Add in the little extras like chocolate chip cookies at check-in and coffee and pastries in the morning, and Belton Chalet makes great home base for any Glacier National Park visit. Give it a try on your next visit.

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

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Glacier, Yellowstone
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Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

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Early in the day at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Slated to run from October 5-13, 2024, the 52nd Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta (balloonfiesta.com) will be filled with morning skies dotted with colorful balloons, special shaped balloon rodeos and evening balloon glows. Add in some fun exhibits, flavorful food and a variety of vendors and you have all the ingredients for a fun-filled event. And the good news is, access hasn’t been overlooked at the Fiesta; in fact organizers have gone above and beyond to make sure that wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy this colorful event.

The Basics

The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta takes place in Balloon Fiesta Park, which is located close to Interstate 25 in the northern part of the city. That said, allow plenty of extra travel time, as traffic congestion is the norm in this area during Fiesta time.

General admission tickets are available on the Balloon Fiesta website or on site. A general admission ticket is good for admission to one session — morning or evening — on any day of the Fiesta. Accessible parking is available for $20 per session, and it is available on a first-come first-serve basis. Accessible parking is available in the Pink, Green, Blue, Turquoise, Brown and Yellow lots. Free accessible shuttles are also available from these lots to the entrance.

If you have an accessible parking placard, you can request a free reflective one, so the attendants can easily see you and direct you to the accessible parking section. To obtain one, send a copy of your placard to:
AIBF
4401 Alameda NE
Albuquerque, NM 87113
ATTN: ADA Placard Request

You can also request a reflective placard by e-mailing a copy of your placard to balloons@balloonfiesta.com, with “ADA Placard Request” in the subject line. Reflective placards are mailed out in late August.

Park and Ride

If you’d prefer to dodge the traffic, then take a Park and Ride bus from one of four remote lots. The busses are wheelchair-accessible but they cannot accommodate scooters. Tickets can be purchased at balloonfiesta.com/Park-Ride, and they also include general admission to the Fiesta. Park and Ride Shuttle tickets are not available at the parking lots, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. If you encounter problems purchasing your tickets online, call (505) 227-8737 for assistance.

There are four Park and Ride locations.

Hoffmantown Church
8888 Harper Road NE
Park in the northeast lot only.

Cottonwood Mall
10000 Coors Bypass NW
Park in the northeast parking lot near Seven Bar Loop and Coors Bypass NW

Coronado Center
6600 Menaul Blvd. NE
Park at the southwest corner near San Pedro Dr. and Uptown Blvd.

Intel
1600 Rio Rancho Dr. SE, Rio Rancho, NM
Park in the southeast lot only. This lot is only open on weekends

The Park and Ride buses run from Thursday to Sunday during the morning and evening events. Morning service begins from the remote lots at 4:00 a.m. and ends at 7:00 a.m. Service from Balloon Fiesta Park to the remote lots begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 11:00, with straggler buses following until 11:30.

Evening service from the remote lots runs from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with return service from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and straggler buses following until 10:00 p.m.

VIP Packages

Although there’s certainly adequate access to the Fiesta grounds; if you have problems with crowds, you might want to consider one of the VIP packages. For an extra fee, you’ll be able to sit or stand in a private viewing area, and enjoy a few other extra perks. If you have problems standing for long periods of time, or find it difficult to navigate through crowds, this might be just the ticket for you.

The Gondola Club offers access to a barrier-free hospitality tent with a private viewing area, outdoor seating, bathrooms and a VIP parking area. Additionally, patrons are treated to a breakfast or dinner buffet and an open bar, and they also receive a Gondola Club lapel pin and a special souvenir gift.

Alternatively, you can choose the the Chasers’ Club, which features guaranteed seating in a private patio on the north end of the park. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are included, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. And like the Gondola Club, it’s completely barrier-free.

Last, but not least, the Albuquerque Balloon Museum Foundation, offers a fully catered breakfast or dinner and a spectacular view of the Mass Ascension or Balloon Glow from the museum balcony. There is elevator access to the observation deck, and accessible indoor restrooms are available to patrons. For more information, visit balloonmuseum.com.

In the end, no matter what package you pick at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, you’ll be treated to a great show. But make plans early, as some of the more popular packages sell out quickly.

Balloons Galore

Each day brings a different schedule to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, but no matter when you visit, there are a few must-sees. On most days the Fiesta is divided into a morning session and an evening session, with a break in the action mid-day. The morning sessions usually start around 6:00 am, while the evening ones begin twelve hours later. It should also be noted that some mid-week days lack an evening session.

Mass ascension at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Make plans to see at least one mass ascension. They usually begin around 6:30 a.m., but get there early as traffic is very heavy, especially on the weekends. During this time hundreds of colorful balloons take to sky in two waves. It’s really a site to behold and a great photo opportunity. Although you can see the ascensions from many places around Albuquerque, there’s really nothing quite like seeing it from Balloon Fiesta Park.

The grassy area which serves as the launch field is level and easy to walk or roll over, and there is an asphalt pathway along the border. Alternatively, wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent from Vista Mobility. Advance reservations can be made at (vistamobility.net) or by calling (262) 677-2696. They will also be available on a limited basis near the information booth.

The special shapes rodeo is also a must-see. This morning event began in 1989 and it’s now the most popular event at the Fiesta. You’ll see everything from enchanted castles and dragons to bumble bees, cows and even a scuba diver.

Special Shapes at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The evening sessions are largely devoted to balloon glows, where the pilots inflate the balloons, but do not launch them. Seeing the balloons glow en mass, is only topped by the spectacular afterglow fireworks show presented at the end of the evening.

After dark “Glow” at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The Extras

There’s more to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta than the colorful balloons. For starters, there’s the food. Most of the food vendors are located along Main Street, which features level access and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair. Food choices include everything from New Mexican cuisine to fair food, with a little bit of something for everyone. ATMs are also located along Main Street, and there are plenty of accessible porta-potties throughout the park.

Main Street is also home to the merchandise vendors, which offer t-shirts, pins, calendars and other souvenirs. And don’t miss the chainsaw carvers’ booth, which is located at the north end of Main Street. The Balloon Discovery Center, which is also located at the north end of Main Street, offers visitors a good primer on the sport of ballooning, with lots of hands-on activities. And don’t forget to stop by the Main Street Stage, which is located near the center of Main Street, to enjoy a wide variety of musical entertainment, ­­

Balloon Museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Finally save time for a visit to the Balloon Museum (balloonmuseum.com). Located next door to Balloon Fiesta Park, this fun and educational museum features accessible parking, loaner wheelchairs, level access to the building and elevator access to all levels. And it’s filled with exhibits about everything from weather balloons and airship models, to balloon equipment, balloon racing and even balloon pins. It’s the perfect way to top off your Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta experience.

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Utah National Parks
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Are Hotels Required to Provide Wheelchair Accessible Airport Shuttles?

Are Hotels Required to Provide Wheelchair Accessible Airport Shuttles?

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Shuttle Bus

Recently I flew to Los Angeles, and although the hotel I stayed at had a free airport shuttle, it was not wheelchair-accessible. I asked the driver and he said that they didn’t have any wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles, and that I should take a taxi or an Uber. It seemed a bit unfair for me to have to pay for transfers, while others got them for free. Are airport shuttles required to be wheelchair-accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? If so, what can I do if I encounter one that lacks wheelchair access?

The ADA and Wheelchair-Accessible Airport Shuttles

In a word, yes. If a hotel provides free shuttle service it’s also required to provide an equivalent accessible service under Title III of the ADA (ada.gov/topics/title-iii/). Equivalent is the key word here, so for example if passengers routinely wait 20 minutes for an airport shuttle, then wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles must arrive in the same time frame.

That doesn’t mean that hotels  have to own their own shuttles though. They just have to provide the equivalent service. For example, a small hotel can share an accessible shuttle with other properties, but they must offer equivalent service as detailed above. Properties can also opt to send accessible taxis to pick up passengers, instead of purchasing and maintaining wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles. And finally they can alternately opt to reimburse guests for their accessible taxi or Uber fares.

When Things Go Wrong

Although equivalent service means that disabled guests will get the same service as non-disabled guests, a little advance planning can go a long way to making this a reality. First and foremost, don’t wait until you arrive at the airport to inquire about the availability of wheelchair-accessible hotel shuttles. Call the hotel in advance of your trip to confirm that they have the appropriate vehicles — and that they are actually operational.

If the hotel employee you are talking with says that they don’t have any wheelchair-accessible airport shuttles, then ask to speak to the manager. Usually managers know the law, and after you point out that wheelchair-accessible shuttle service is required under the ADA, then they will start to work to find a solution. Of course this solution may be that the hotels provides an accessible taxi or pays for your Uber, but that’s an acceptable solution under the law.

On the other hand if the manager balks at your request, it’s best to find another property. You can’t strong arm someone into adhering to the law, and you don’t want to arrive at the airport only to find out that there’s no way to get to your hotel. Give your money to a property that does follow the law and will be able to accommodate you.

Of course, don’t forget the property that didn’t accommodate you. They broke the law and they deserve to be reported to the Department of Justice (DOJ). It’s easy to do too — just complete this simple online form (civilrights.justice.gov/report) to file an ADA complaint. You won’t receive any compensation as the result of filing an ADA complaint, but it will help effect change. And that helps make everything more accessible in the long run.

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California National Park
Road Trips
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DOJ seal

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Why You Should File an ADA Complaint

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If you’re a member of any online group that focuses on access or disability, chances are you’ve read about more than a few “Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access shortfalls”. Granted, in this day and age this shouldn’t happen, but it does. Why? Well the short answer is because there’s no “ADA Police Force” that goes around and looks for access violations. For the most part, the Department of Justice (DOJ) relies on user-input to decide when and where to issue fines or take remedial action. And where does that user-input come from? In a few words, from you and the rest of the general public.

And the good news is, it’s easy to file and ADA complaint. Unfortunately most people just brush off the access shortfalls they encounter, and skip reporting them to the DOJ. It’s true that the DOJ does not move forward and take action on every single complaint; however if they don’t receive any complaints, it virtually guarantees that access shortfalls will remain unchanged. And that’s why we still encounter ADAAG code violations, over 30 years after the ADA was signed by President George Bush.

The ADA Complaint Process

It’s easy to file an ADA complaint. Just go to https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/ and complete the form. Keep it short and sweet and get right to the violation. And try to leave your emotions out of it. A well written concise complaint will get more attention than a wordy unorganized one.

After the DOT receives a complaint, they review it. If there are any questions they will contact you. At the very least they will confirm that they received your complaint.

Next they check to see if the item addressed is covered under the ADA. For example, if someone complains about the height of a hotel bed, no action is taken because bed height is not regulated by the ADA (https://emerginghorizons.com/why-the-ada-doesnt-address-bed-height/). They also make sure that the complaint is in the right department. So if they get a complaint about an air travel issue, they will not address it because air travel is covered under the Air Carrier Access Act, not the ADA.

If the DOJ does decide to move forward with an ADA complaint, there are a few ways things can go. The most popular choice is mediation. This is when they assign an impartial mediator and have the parties sit down in a neutral location and hammer out a workable solution. It’s a little time intensive, but the results are usually worth it.

Of course, the best outcome is when fines are issued or a lawsuit is initiated and remedial action is required. This tends to make companies stand up and take notice. On the other hand, some cases are not pursued. This could be because the DOJ is targeting certain violations, geographic areas or even providers. And the DOJ does look for patterns — like an increase in specific violations — so reporting ADA issues is always good.

Mediation Works!

Just for the record, I do practice what I preach, as I have filed several ADA complaints. All of them were addressed in one way or another, but one of my most successful efforts actually went to mediation.

About 15 years ago I was summoned to jury duty in a small town; and I was totally gob smacked when I discovered that there was not a single accessible restroom in the entire courthouse. I brought this to the attention of a few supervisors and the prevailing attitude seemed to be that anyone with a disability could get excused so they didn’t really need those accessible facilities. But what if they wanted to do their civic duty and serve on a jury? That option was pretty much taken away from them due to the lack of accessible restrooms.

So I filed an ADA complaint. Shortly thereafter I got a phone call saying my complaint was referred to mediation, and that I would be getting a call from the mediator. The mediator called and explained the process and set up a meeting time that worked for all parties. I was expecting something adversarial, but it was all very businesslike. I explained the problem, and of course the city folks claimed “budget issues” but in the end they realized they were obligated to provide accessible facilities at the courthouse.

And it all had a happy ending. Although it didn’t happen overnight, they redid the restrooms in the courthouse and put in a large accessible unit. In my opinion it was a win-win for everyone, and it really took very little effort on my part.

Sometimes Fines are Imposed

The DOJ can also start legal proceedings as the result of an ADA complaint. Such was the result of an ADA complaint filed by one couple against a Columbus, Ohio Holiday Inn Express (https://archive.ada.gov/badrivishal_sa.pdf).

The complaint was filed by the wife of a man who has multiple sclerosis, and requires a roll-in shower to bathe. She reserved an accessible room with a roll-in shower at the property, but when they arrived they discovered that neither of the two accessible rooms had a roll-in shower. Since her husband was unable to use the tub/shower combination in the accessible room, they were forced to relocate to another hotel during the busy Thanksgiving weekend.

The hotel claimed that they were up to code in regards to their accessible facilities; however a subsequent access audit found that there were many ADA violations. Under the DOJ agreement, the hotel was required to remove access barriers in the parking lot, building entrance, public restrooms, front desk, and the routes of travel within the hotel. They were also required to fix the access shortfalls in their accessible rooms, and add one more accessible room to the inventory.

The agreement also required additional training for the hotel staff on how to accommodate guests with a disability. And as part of the settlement, the hotel paid the couple that filed the complaint $20,000. Granted, nobody should have to endure access shortfalls like these in this day and age, but thanks to this complaint, one more property is now truly accessible to wheelchair-users.

Excuses, Excuses!

I’ve been preaching this “file an ADA complaint” mantra for several decades. Many folks are receptive to it, however few follow through with any action. I’ve gotten many excuses for this reluctance. Here are some of my favorites, along with my arguments against them.

“I addressed the issue with the manager who seemed eager to correct things.”

A good manager always makes you feel that your complaint is valid and will be addressed. It’s what happens after you leave that really matters. Many managers won’t take the time to follow up on access related issues. And even if the manager tries to pursue things, if the higher ups nix the idea it’s a no-go. Which is why it’s a good idea to file an ADA complaint, even if you also personally addressed the issue with on-site staff — to make sure that things get fixed.

 

“It takes too long to file a complaint.”

Everything takes time, but truly it takes less time to file and ADA complaint than to tell your story on numerous Facebook groups. It’s all about using time wisely.

 

“I’m not the ADA police.”

Well actually, you are. We don’t have inspectors or officials that go around looking for ADA violations, so the only way they get reported is if average citizens complain. And that means everyone!

 

 “Nothing ever happens with these complaints. It’s just a waste of time.”

The DOJ doesn’t have the staff to address all of the complaints; however a good number are referred to mediation, and some are even pursued legally. You can’t really predict what will happen to any complaint, but you can be sure that the issue won’t be addressed if you don’t submit a complaint.

 

Filing an ADA complaint helps effect change. Just do it.
https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/

 

Grand Canyon Without a Car

Grand Canyon Without a Car

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Although the Grand Canyon is a bit off the the beaten path, it is possible to visit this national treasure without a car. Of course you can always book a package tour, but if you would like to explore on your own, then rail travel is your best bet. There are a still number of options even with Amtrak, but here’s the best way for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore the Grand Canyon without a car.

Ride the Rails

Amtrak Southwest Cheif

The Amtrak Southwest Chief (www.amtrak.com/southwest-chief-train), which offers daily service between Los Angeles and Chicago is the most direct way to get to the Grand Canyon by rail. Although theoretically you can depart from any station along this route, it’s best to depart from Los Angeles because of the timing of the trains. This eastbound train arrives in Flagstaff in the early morning, in plenty of time to catch the first wheelchair-accessible shuttle to the Grand Canyon. The westbound train, on the other hand, arrives in the evening, well after the last shuttle has departed.

There’s good wheelchair access at the Los Angeles and Flagstaff stations, with level access or lift boarding to the trains. Accessible restrooms are available on the train, and wheelchair-users can either transfer to a coach seat or stay in their own wheelchair for the duration of their journey. The Southwest Chief also has an accessible bedroom on the lower level of the train. Although it can be a tight fit for some large wheelchairs, this compartment has more space than a standard one. It also has an accessible toilet and sink. And the best part about traveling in the accessible bedroom is that it comes with complimentary meals and room service.

Groome Transportation (groometransportation.com/grand-canyon) offers accessible shuttle service from the Flagstaff Amtrak Depot to Maswik Lodge in the Grand Canyon. Advance reservation are required, and accessible vehicle requests must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Alternatively, if you’d like to ride the rails all the way to the Grand Canyon, you can take the Grand Canyon Railway (www.thetrain.com) from Williams. This route involves an additional transfer in an Amtrak Thruway bus from the Flagstaff Amtrak Depot to the Grand Canyon Railway Depot. That said, it’s the preferred route for real rail buffs.

Accessible boarding on Grand Canyon Rail

Explore the South Rim

Grand Canyon shuttle

Once you get to the South Rim, it’s easy to explore the Grand Canyon without a car. After you drop off your luggage at Maswik Lodge, just hop aboard the free park shuttle bus. All shuttle buses are equipped with ramps and they can kneel to accommodate slow walkers. They can accommodate wheelchairs up to 30 inches wide and 48 inches long.

The best way to begin your visit is to take the Village Shuttle over to the Visitor Center. Pick up a map and browse through the exhibits, then take the accessible paved path out to Mather Point for a superb view of the Colorado River and the South Kaibab Trail. Then hop back on the Village Shuttle and get off at Bright Angel an enjoy more canyon views from the Rim Trail. You can do as little or as much this trail as you like, and even stop for a lunch break at one of the rim lodges.

After you’ve explored the rim take the Hermits Rest Shuttle, which stops at the west end of the Rim Trail. The bus travels down the seven mile stretch of Hermit Road to the infamous Mary Colter designed roadside rest. There are nine canyon overlooks along the way, but two must-stops are Hopi Point and Mojave Point. Hopi Point is the highest point along the route, and Mojave Point has a quarter-mile accessible trail that boasts impressive canyon views.

Last but not least, book a accessible Desert View Bus Tour (grandcanyonlodges.com/plan/interpretive-bus-tours). This four-hour tour covers the entire length of Desert View Drive and stops several viewpoints along the way. Plan ahead though, as 48 hours advance notice is required for an accessible bus.

Spend the Night

Although most of the properties inside Grand Canyon National Park have accessible rooms, the accessible shuttle from Flagstaff only stops at Maswik Lodge (grandcanyonlodges.com/lodging/maswik-lodge), so it’s the most convenient way to do the Grand Canyon without a car.

There’s barrier-free access to the lobby of this motel-style property, with level access over to the front desk. The property is spread out between buildings dotted throughout a pine forest, with parking located right outside the rooms. They have accessible rooms that are equipped with either a tub/shower combo or a roll-in shower.

Room 6761 is located near the main lodge in the Cliffrose Building. There’s accessible parking in front, with level access to the room. Other access features include wide doorways, a lowered peephole, lever handles and a lowered closet rod. It’s furnished with two 23-inch high queen-sized beds, with wheelchair access between them, a chest of drawers, a table with two chairs, and a refrigerator. It also has a sliding glass door, with level access out to a small patio area.

Room 6761 at Maswik Lodge

The bathroom has a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink and a lowered mirror.

Bathroom in room 6761 at Maswik Lodge

Room 6742, which is located in the Spruce Building, has the same general access features and bed configuration as room 6761, except that the bathroom is equipped with a tub/shower combination, with grab bars and a portable shower chair.

Room 6742 at Maswik Lodge

 

Bathroom in room 6842 at Maswik Lodge

Additionally, there’s barrier-free access to all the public areas of Maswik Lodge, including the restaurants, gift shop and lobby area. It’s a comfortable property, and a great home base for an accessible Grand Canyon without a car visit.

Barrier-Free Travelthe Grand Canyonfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

Barrier-Free Travel
the Grand Canyon
for Wheelers and Slow Walkers

Buy the Book
Accessible Prague Resource

Accessible Prague Resource

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View from the tower of Old Town Hall in Prague

If a trip to Prague is in your future, then check out this great accessible Prague resource on the Official Tourist Website for Prague (prague.eu/en/accessible-prague?fbclid=IwAR1hdqdE_CtAEA8njlRanTLSKWMjNtlpRe1_Zxs2m4JUHgSwOIsJwQ-fMdA). It includes information about barrier-free routes to tourist destinations in the city, plus access details on local cultural sites, restaurants, accommodations and transportation. Information about wheelchair-accessible guided tours is also included. The tourism authority has also compiled a map that shows the accessibility of buildings and public spaces throughout the city. The map is available digitally on the website, or in a printed accessibility guide that ‘s available at one of the Tourist Information Centers in town. Even better — two of the Tourist Information Centers are located in Vaclav Havel Airport (Terminals 1 and 2), so you can get the printed guide as soon as you hop off the plane. An excellent resource for an accessible Prague visit!

South Rim Grand Canyon Lodges Closed for Labor Day Weekend

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South Rim Grand Canyon Lodges Closed for Labor Day Weekend

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Due to a break in the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies potable water to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, all South Rim Grand Canyon lodges will be closed from August 29, 2024 to September 4, 2024. The closure will allow crews to make emergency repairs to the water system, which has had 85 major breaks since 2010.

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