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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Sleep in a Wheelchair-Accessible Treehouse at Skamania Lodge

Sleep in a Wheelchair-Accessible Treehouse at Skamania Lodge

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Angels Rest Wheelchair-Accessible Treehouse Suite at Skamania Lodge, Oregon

Although Skamania Lodge (https://www.skamania.com/) is just a 45-minute drive from Portland, it’s a world away from the trappings of urban life. Surrounded by towering evergreens, the 175-acre property offers upscale amenities in the scenic Columbia River Gorge. Of course the standard lodge rooms and suites at Skamania Lodge are beyond comfortable; however if you want to raise the meter on the exclusivity index, then check-in to their new wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite. Located in an private corner of the property, this luxurious tree-level suite offers comfortable furnishings, first-rate-amenities and more than a few little extras. And even though most treehouses aren’t doable for people with mobility issues, this wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite at Skamania Lodge is an excellent lodging choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

A Wheelchair-Accessible Treehouse

Inside the Angels Rest wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite
There are Lots of Windows in the Angels Rest wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite

The new treehouse suites are located in a quiet corner of the lodge property that’s reserved for treehouse guests. There’s plenty of room to deploy a ramp in the parking space reserved for the Angels Rest wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite. From there a 300-foot hard-packed dirt pathway leads up to the treehouse. There’s a slight incline to the path near the end, but it’s doable for most power wheelchair and scooter-users. Golf cart assistance is available to anyone who needs it — just inquire at check in. And if you encounter any problems, just call the number that’s included with your room key.

Access features in Angels Rest include wide doorways, lever handles and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter. The main room is lined with windows that bring the outside in — you really feel like you are in a tree. It’s furnished with a 26-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two night tables, a refrigerator and a microwave. And there are two comfy chairs in front of the indoor-outdoor gas fireplace, and a vintage guitar tucked away in the corner. There’s also level access to the spacious deck through two double doors.

Deck outside the Angels Rest wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite

The bathroom is cavernous, and includes a full five-foot turning radius. It’s outfitted with a large roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a wooden shower bench. The toilet, which is located in an alcove around the corner, has grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated). Top it off with a large roll-under sink and a lowered mirror and you have a nicely outfitted and accessible suite.

Bathroom in the Angels Rest wheelchair-accessible treehouse suite

Those Little Extras

And then there are those little extras that are included in this luxurious wheelchair-accessible treehouse. For starters, there’s not just a coffee maker, but a Nespresso machine. Just pop in a pod for a perfectly brewed cup of expresso. Of course if you prefer tea or cocoa, they have that too.

And let’s talk about the robes. Many hotels provide guests with robes and slippers, but the treehouse robe was the softest and plushest one I’ve ever worn. Seriously, I didn’t want to take it off.

There were also some nice extras outside. Not only are there comfy chairs and a table on the deck, but there’s also a Yeti ice chest. And it’s filled with ice, so bring your favorite beverage and enjoy. And although the whole treehouse suite simply oozes romance, the deck is a particularly romantic retreat. There’s also a nice open meadow below the deck, where the deer like to hang out near the end of the day.

Last but certainly not least, there’s the gas firepit that’s located close to the treehouse. There’s level access to the firepit, which is reserved for treehouse guests. And you don’t have to worry about actually starting a fire — just push a button and you’re good to go. Of course you can just sit around the fire and enjoy the evening, or you can whip up some tasty s’mores. And in keeping with the “little extras included” theme, s’more kits are also included in the treehouse suites. Truly they thought of everything.

But Wait, There’s More

Of course the wheelchair-accessible treehouse is just the tip of the iceberg at Skaminia Lodge. Let’s not forget the public spaces. There’s plenty of accessible parking near the main lodge building with a barrier-free path over to the spacious lobby. On the far side of the registration desk there’s a large fireplace, with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the warmth, and take in the view of the surrounding forest.

The Cascade Dining Room, which is located just down the hall, also offers good wheelchair access. It’s open all day, and guests can enjoy eggs benedict for breakfast, nosh on some steelhead trout tacos for lunch, and feast on a rack of lamb at dinner. Lighter fare and gluten-free selections are also available. But one of the best features of the dining room is the expansive view of the forest, with the Columbia River in the background.

If you’d prefer some lighter fare, there’s also barrier-free access to the River Rock Lounge, which is located just down the hall.

And if you’d like to go for a swim, then just take the elevator to the basement and check out the indoor swimming pool. Not only is there good access around the pool, but there’s also a wheelchair lift to get into it. And since it’s protected from the elements, you can enjoy the water year-round.

In the end, not only does Skamania Lodge have all the bells and whistles, but it’s also just a short drive from the Historic Columbia River Highway, where you’ll find scenic vistas, jaw-dropping views and cascading waterfalls. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic retreat. After all a segment of The Bachelorette was filmed there!

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Sleep Near the Big Trees in Calaveras County

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The Black Bear Inn in Arnold, California

Located in California Gold Country, the Black Bear Inn (www.arnoldblackbearinn.com/) in Arnold makes the perfect home base for a wheelchair-accessible Calaveras County getaway. This five-bedroom lodge is surrounded by the forest, and offers a quiet, comfortable and accessible mountain retreat. From the massive ceiling beams and the welcoming fireplace in the great room, to a secluded patio in the pines, the Black Bear Inn has all the ingredients for a relaxing and refreshing mountain retreat. And if you’d like to explore the area, it’s just a short drive to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum and some fabulous Murphys wineries.

The Calaveras Suite

The Black Bear inn offers accessible parking near the entrance with level access over to the front door. Inside there’s plenty of room to roll around the great room, and barrier-free access to the accessible Calaveras Suite at the end of the hall. Access features in the suite include wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access and low-pile carpet for easy rolling..

The suite is furnished with a 32-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face it). Other furnishings include two chairs, a table, a chest of drawers and an armoire. There’s also a fireplace in the oversized room, and if you’d like to enjoy the outdoors, there’s plenty of room to roll-around on the private patio. Of course, if you’d prefer to partake of the creature comforts, there’s also Wi-Fi and a TV available.

The bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius, and is outfitted with an extra large — six foot wide by 4 foot deep — roll in shower. Other access features include a hand held showerhead, shower grab bars and a pedestal sink. Top it off with toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated), and you have a very accessible suite.

The Little Extras

Although the suites at the Black Bear Inn are certainly comfortable, it’s the little extras that set this Calaveras County property apart. First and foremost there’s breakfast. It’s a full sit down affair in the main dining room or on the back patio. Owner Bruce Davison graduated from Le Cordon Bleu Academy in Sacramento, and whatever he serves is a treat. That said, cross your fingers that his delicious Nut Crusted French Toast is in the rotation. Crispy on the outside and creamy on inside, it’s the perfect way to start the day.

And then there’s the afternoon wine and cheese spread. It’s served in the gathering room, the back patio or even on your own private patio. And it includes artisan cheese charcuterie items, crackers and fruit, and of course your choice of local wine.

And for a real treat, Bruce can prepare dinner for you and your party — up to 10 folks. For a more intimate affair it can even be served by candlelight. And if you have a larger gathering like a family reunion or a girlfriends getaway, it can be also served in the larger dining room or on the back patio. Bruce uses fresh local ingredients, and his barbeques are phenomenal; but whatever you choose you won’t go away hungry. It’s truly the perfect way to top off a weekend visit to the Black Bear Inn.

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Wheelchair-Accessible Yellowstone Lodging at Jim Bridge Explorer Cabins

Wheelchair-Accessible Yellowstone Lodging at Jim Bridge Explorer Cabins

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Cabin 2 at Jim Bridger Cabins

If a trip to Yellowstone National Park is on your travel calendar, then consider staying in Gardiner at the Jim Bridger Explorer Cabins (www.yellowstonevacations.com). This new addition to the Ridgeline Hotel features nine explorer cabins grouped around two community fire pits. It combines the best of both worlds — the feeling of roughing it in the outdoors, but with all the luxuries of home and hearth. And the wheelchair-accessible cabin is packed full of accessible amenities — including a choice of bed heights. As an added bonus, it’s just a short drive from Gardiner to the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It’s the perfect pick for a wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone visit.

Spend the Night

There’s accessible parking near the Ridgeline Hotel office, with level access to the front desk. From there, it’s just a short drive around the corner to the accessible parking space near accessible cabin 2. The parking space is located close to the ramp that winds around to the front porch of the cabin. Alternatively, there are steps up to the front porch, with accessible parking located nearby.

Entry to Cabin 2

Access features in the cabin include wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access and low-pile carpet for easy rolling. The great room is furnished with a 13-inch high sleeper sofa and a coffee table in front of a gas fireplace. The kitchenette includes a roll-under sink, a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a cooktop and a microwave. Also included are a nice selection of dishes, glasses, utensils and pots and pans. Add in a toaster, a coffee maker and even an ice maker and you have all your bases covered.

Kitchen in Cabin 2

The master bedroom is furnished with a 31-inch high platform bed with wheelchair access on both sides; while the second bedroom has a bunk bed with a double on the bottom (23-inches high) and a twin on top. So between the sleeper sofa and the two bedrooms, guests definitely have a choice in bed heights.

Master Bedroom in Cabin 2

There’s excellent access in the bathroom as well, which boasts a full five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Other access features include a roll-under sink and a toilet with grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated).

The Extras

And then there are those little extra features at this fun wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging pick. Lets start out with the private rooftop deck in cabin 2. Although the other cabins have a spiral staircase up to this feature, there’s a private elevator to access the deck in accessible cabin. It’s a great place to chill at night or to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee in the morning.

Rooftop deck on Cabin 2

The explorer cabins come equipped with walking sticks, flashlights and binoculars. There’s also a nice little collection of games in the hall closets, including National Park Monopoly. And if you need to do some laundry, it’s free — along with the detergent — over at the Ridgeline Hotel. Last but certainly not least, there’s the free s’mores kit, so you can craft your own yummy creation around the community fire pit. All in all, it’s a great wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging pick, with plenty of choices for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

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Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center

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Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center

Located along the Historic Columbia River Highway in Dalles, the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center (gorgediscovery.org) is a must-stop on any Northern Oregon road trip. If you’re already on the historic highway, just follow Taylor Franz Road and Discover Drive to the museum; and if you’re on Interstate 84, then take exit 82 and follow the signs. Either way it’s easy to find.

The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, which is located in an award-winning 48,200 square-foot building, serves to create appreciation for the Columbia River Gorge through the interpretation of cultural and natural resources. To that end it presents a comprehensive history of the area, offers daily raptor shows and has a wheelchair-accessible trail that’s filled with native plants and exhibits. And it’s also the starting point of the accessible Riverside Trail. It’s a great primer for any Columbia River Gorge trip, and a must do on a Historic Columbia River Highway excursion.

Discover the Gorge

Access is good at the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center, with plenty of accessible parking, level access to the front door; and ample room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. There’s elevator access to the second floor, and accessible restrooms are located near the boardroom. And if you’d like to bring along lunch, there’s a picnic area with accessible tables in back.

There’s good pathway access throughout the Discovery Center, which focuses on the history of the the gorge from the ice age to present day. Exhibits include displays about the geology of the gorge, Lewis & Clark, gorge ecology, the Oregon Trail and transportation. There are a number of interactive and tactile exhibits, and the whole museum offers a comprehensive look at the Columbia River Gorge.

And don’t miss the live raptor presentations that are held in the theater. These educational seminars are included with admission and in addition to having a raptor — or two — present, they also offer a good overview of raptor habits, behavior and habitat. And there’s barrier-free access to the theater, with plenty of room for wheelchairs in the front and on the sides. Check the theater schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss this educational and entertaining presentation.

A Little History

Display inside the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center

The Wasco County Historical Museum, which is located in the east wing, also has excellent wheelchair access. Established in 1854, Wasco County is home to portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail and the Oregon Trail; while Native Americans, missionaries, pioneers and folks looking to strike it rich in the gold rush also inhabited the area over the years. And the museum offers a wide variety of displays on the diverse history of the area.

There’s plenty of room for a wheelchair to maneuver around the exhibits about the early inhabitants, shipwrecks on the Columbia River, the former cannery, a rail depot and the old Umatilla House hotel. And there’s even a turn-of the-century street scene of Dalles. Round it out with a agriculture exhibit and a gallery filled with George Lawrence Company saddles, and you get a pretty good picture of the early settlers of Wasco County.

Take a Hike

Along the Native Plant Walk outside the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center

Finally, save some time to explore the outdoor areas of the museum. There’s level access out the back door to the paved Native Plant Walk. Make a left as you exit the museum and head all the way to the end of the trail to the Columbia River scenic overlook, where’ you’ll get a good view of the river with the Klickitat Hills in the background.

Next head back to the museum — past some evidence of beaver activity — to the Native American petroglyph rock art near the back door. The remainder of the trail winds past Olney’s cabin, Crate’s Cabin and a tepee, and includes over 40 identified plants. Pick up a guide at the front desk and see how many you can find. The whole trail is paved and wheelchair-accessible.

And near the end of the Native Plant Walk, you’ll find the beginning on the Riverfront Trail. This wide paved trail winds along the southern bank of the Columbia River, from the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center to the Dalles Dam Visitor Center. The trail is an excellent option for wheelchair-users and slow walkers; and the great part is, you can do as little or as much of it as you want. That said, even if time is short, try to fit in a short stint along this scenic thoroughfare. It’s the perfect way to top off a visit to the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center.

 

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Field Station Moab – A Breath of Fresh Air

Field Station Moab – A Breath of Fresh Air

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Lobby at Field Station, Moab

A sister brand of AutoCamp, Field Station properties exude a distinctive outdoor vibe. And Field Station Moab (www.fieldstation.com) is a shining example of this. So much so that when you walk in to the front lobby you feel like you’ve just entered a REI or some cool low-key coffee house. The first thing you see is a collection of outdoor gear and apparel, with a few folks lingering over coffee and snacks over to the left. The back wall is a large window, that folds open to create a seamless transition to the comfortable outdoor space. And way over in the corner you can spot the front desk – proof positive that you really are in a hotel. To say it’s a refreshing change is an understatement. And in keeping with this progressive concept, access is also front and center at this debut property of the Field Station brand.

The Public Spaces

Little Station Café at Field Station Moab

The whole Field Station concept is also a refreshing departure from typical hotel development. Instead of going into a town and clearing a lot to erect a new addition to the concrete jungle, Field Station instead buys distressed properties, guts them, and adds their own unique brand accents to them. And the results are astonishing. In fact it’s hard to imagine that Field Station Moab was previously an abandoned and deteriorated Super 8 property.

And again the access is excellent. There’s plenty of accessible parking in the large lot, with level access to the power assist front door. And inside there’s ample room for even the largest wheelchair or scooter to maneuver through the public spaces. Accessible restrooms – which double as changing rooms for the retail space – are located just off the front lobby. And there’s plenty of room for wheelchair-users to enjoy a cup of coffee, a breakfast bagel, pizza or a burger in the Little Station Cafe. Beer and wine are also available, and if you’re in a hurry they have a number of grab-and-go selections.

Outside there’s level access to the picnic tables and outdoor furniture, which are bordered by a mister. And in the center you’ll find the signature AutoCamp fire circle. There’s also level access to the pool area, and the portable pool lift can be used in the pool or the adjacent hot tub. Next door there are family bathrooms that are each equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. They also each have a toilet with grab bars and a roll-under sink, and ample room for a large wheelchair and an attendant. They can be used as changing rooms, or as bathroom facilities for folks that rent out the van life spots.

Outside grounds at Field Station Moab

The Rooms

Field Station Moab has seven accessible rooms, all of which are located on the ground floor. Room 101 includes a level threshold, wide doorways, a lowered peephole, lever handles and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a table and chairs, a bench, a chest of drawers and a refrigerator, And, like all the accessible rooms, it also has remote controlled window shades. The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a bathtub with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a tub bench. It also includes a roll-under sink and a toilet with grab bars on the back and right walls (a seated). It’s a comfortable room with a definite outdoor feel to it.

Room 101 at Field Station Moab
Bathroom in room 101 at Field Station Moab

Rooms 103, 114 and 301 are also accessible king rooms with a tub/shower combination. Rooms 349 and 352 are accessible double queen rooms. Room 349 has a tub/shower combination, while room 352 has a roll-in shower.

Room 300 – which is huge – can comfortably accommodate up to eight people. It includes the same basic access features as room 101, except that it has a wider double entry door. It’s furnished with two 25-inch high queen sized beds with wheelchair access on both sides, and a double bunk bed (the bottom bunk is 21 inches high). It has the same basic furnishings as room 101. There’s also level access to a patio, which has a few chairs and a fire pit. The bathroom includes a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Top it off with a roll-under sink and a toilet with grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated).

Room 300 at Field Station Moab
Bathroom in room 300 at Field Station Moab

The Extras

And then there are the Field Station Moab extras. Like free laundry. There’s level access to the laundry room with plenty of room for wheelchair-users to access the front loading machines. Even the detergent is free. And if you want to heat up a quick snack there are also microwaves located in the community space.

But one of the best extras at Field Station Moab are the employees, as they are all local experts in one area or another. Ask them a question and you’ll get great advice from a local. They can also help set up tours or connect you with a local guide. And if you forgot something at home, they have a good selection of rental gear.

So check out Field Station Moab on your next Utah road trip. It makes a great home base for exploring nearby Arches and Canyonlands national parks.

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Department of Wildlife Launches Kansas Track Chair Program

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Action Trackchair

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism recently launched the Adaptive Sportsmen of Kansas (ASK) program in order to ensure that hunters and anglers with disabilities have better access to outdoor areas. Made possible with support from Bushnell Optics and the National Wild Turkey Federation, this program provides track chairs on a first-come basis at pre-approved events and conservation-based activities throughout the state. These Action Trackchairs are outfitted with tank tracks instead of wheels and are controlled by a joystick. They are also equipped with a four-point harness, a gun mount, a fishing rod holder, a LED headlight and a utility box for extra storage. For more information about events and activities that will have track chairs available, contact ASK Program Coordinator Jessica Rice at (913) 278-2362 or Jess.rice@ks.gov. And for more information about this Kansas track chair program, visit ksoutdoors.com/Outdoor-Activities/Track-Chairs-ASK-Program.

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Wheelchair-Accessible Greece Tours & Shore Excursions

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Gate d’Amboise in Rhodes, Greece

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, then check out the comprehensive list of wheelchair-accessible Greece tours and shore excursions and accessible services available from Athens-based Care Under the Sun (www.careundersun.com). Day tour offerings include everything from an Athens food tour and Santorini wine tour, to a Rhodes old town excursion and even a visit to Cape Sounion. These wheelchair-accessible Greece tours include transportation in lift-equipped vans and knowledgeable tour guides; and many can also be done as shore excursions with transportation to and from cruise ships. And if you’d like something a little more active, then try one of their accessible diving and snorkeling day tours.

Care Under the Sun can also arrange for accessible hotels, airport transfers and accessible van rentals. Additionally, they conduct several accessible Greece group tours throughout the year. They can also make arrangements for dialysis treatments and medical equipment rentals. And if you need assistance, they can provide a personal care assistant or nurse. For more information about their accessible Greece tours, contact Care under the Sun at +30 6944319506 or info@careundersun.com.

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Flying with a Wheelchair? Remember the CRO

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Flying with a wheelchair for the first time can seem pretty intimidating. That said, it doesn’t have to be. As they say, knowledge is power, and in this case that knowledge comes from the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Not only does this legislation spell out the rules of accessible air travel in the US, but it also covers air travel for foreign airlines on direct flights to and from the US. Additionally it mandates an on-site problem solver for accessible air travel problems. This problem solver is called the Complaints Resolution Official, or the CRO for short. So before your next flight, it pays to learn about the ACAA and the CRO. Not only will this help you know what to expect when you fly, but it will also give you a valuable resource should things go wrong.

Learn the Law — The ACAA

Many people incorrectly believe that air travel in the US is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It is not. It is covered under the ACAA, which actually predates the ADA. And it specifically lays out the rules for accessible air travel on US airlines, as well for foreign airlines on flights to and from the US.

And the good news is that this piece of legislation is written in a user-friendly format. In other words it’s not a jumble of legal terms and phrases, but instead it’s presented as a series of questions and answers about accessible air travel. It covers everything from airport assistance and boarding, to seating, wheelchair stowage and even wheelchair damage. And the best thing that you can do to prepare yourself for your flight is to read the ACAA in it’s entirety at www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-382

Reading this legislation is especially important if it’s your first time flying with a wheelchair. Why? Because it will give you a good idea of what to expect when you get to the airport, board the airplane and even arrive at your destination. And once you know what to expect, you will also know when something is going wrong. That’s when the CRO comes into play.

Ask for the CRO — Your Problem Solver

The ACAA also mandates that covered airlines must have a CRO on duty during their operating hours. They can have the CRO available in person or by phone, but they do have to be available when someone requests one. These employees know the ACAA and they have the power to solve problems on the spot. They have the power to overrule every other airline employee — including third party contractors — except the captain of the aircraft.

Once you know the rules for accessible air travel, you will also know when something isn’t going according to the rules. And that’s when you need to speak up for yourself. For example, if an airline employee says that wheelchair-users are not allowed to have aisle seats, and instead insists that you have to sit by the window, then you need to ask for the CRO. In this case, it would first be a good idea to first tell the airline employee that under the ACAA, the only place a wheelchair-user can’t sit is the emergency exit row. And if you still get push back, ask to speak to the CRO.

Now if the airline employee doesn’t know who or what the CRO is, ask to speak to a supervisor. The supervisor definitely knows who the CRO is, and in fact they may even be a CRO. Sometimes inexperienced employees don’t know about the CRO, so don’t be afraid to work your way up the chain of command.

It’s also a good idea to bookmark the ACAA, so you will have easy access to it when you travel. Then if you run into something questionable, you can easily pull it up and show it to the airline employee. Sometimes that works, but in the end the CRO is your best source for immediate resolution.

File an Official Complaint

Although the CRO is the person that can help solve your access related problems on the spot, there are a few more things you should do if you encounter difficulties when you are flying with a wheelchair. Of course first and foremost, you need to address the issue at hand, and try to get it solved by the CRO. But there are also a few more things that you should do when you return home.

First off, file an official complaint with the airline, especially if there was some damage done to your wheelchair or other assistive device. Address the issue and ask for appropriate compensation. When an access-related complaint is filed directly with the airline, they are required to track the resolution and report back to the Department of Transportation (DOT). It should be noted this is the only way to receive monetary damages from an airline, short of going to court.

Finally, it’s also a good idea to file an official ACAA complaint with the DOT after you return. This will not help solve your problem, nor will it get you any monetary compensation, but it could result in airline fines by the DOT. The DOT looks at patterns and if it gets numerous complaints on the same airline about the same thing, it may issue fines to the airlines involved. And remedial training is usually also required when an airline is fined. Although an ACAA complaint won’t benefit you personally it may help effect change and make air travel more accessible for everyone. And it’s easy to do on this online form — secure.dot.gov/air-travel-complaint.

So the next time you encounter problems when flying with a disability, make sure you take all of these measures to remedy the problem.

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Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

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Lewis and Clark Caverns

Located near Whitehall, Montana, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park (fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns/) is named for the famous explorers, even though the closest the duo ever got to their namesake caves was the Jefferson River, some 1,400 feet below. Although the caverns are a definite highlight of the park, visitors can also enjoy the scenic drive up the mountain, and spend the night in a comfortable camping cabin at the park campground. And although caves can be problematic for people with mobility issues, some wheelchair-users and slow walkers may be able to manage a portion of the tour of this 350 million year-old cavern.

Enjoy the Drive

The best place to begin your visit to Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is at the main visitor center, which is located near the park entrance. There’s accessible parking in the large lot and level access to the building. Inside there’s ample room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter through the galleries. Pick up a park map and learn a little bit about the geology, flora and fauna in the park.

From the main visitor center it’s about a three-mile drive to the top of the mountain, where the Cave Visitor Center is located. It’s also the starting point for the cavern tours. Take your time to stop along the way to enjoy the view from the numerous pullouts. And even if you don’t have time to stop, there are some great windshield views, going in both directions.

If you’d like to enjoy lunch al fresco, there are also a few options along the drive. The first picnic area is located close to the bottom. It features accessible parking, an accessible vault toilet, and a do-able pathway to some of the closer picnic tables. Up the road, the next picnic area has a level unstriped parking area, and level access over to several picnic tables. The remainder of the tables are located down some steps and over a bridge. And finally, there’s Vista Point. Although there are steps down to the viewing platform, there’s level access over to two shaded tables near the level parking area.

Explore the Caverns

Up at the top of the mountain, there’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, with ramp access up to it. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the historic stone building is well preserved, and includes the original fireplace. The walls are lined with vintage photos, and there’s also a movie that’s shown throughout the day about the development of the caverns. There’s a cafe and gift shop across the parking lot, with accessible parking nearby.

Cave tour tickets are available at the kiosk next to the visitor center. Tours are only available from May 1 to September 30. Of the tour offerings, the Paradise Tour is the most accessible choice. The 1.5-hour tour requires about a mile of walking or rolling. Unlike the Classic Tour, which includes 600 stairs and a number of tight spaces, this tour is level, with the exception of about 15 steps at the end. The cavern entrance is about a quarter-mile away from the visitor center on a dirt trail covered in crushed granite.

Once inside, a 538-foot tunnel leads over to the Grand Finale Room, which contains an impressive collection of stalactites, stalagmites and columnar formations. Despite the name it’s not the end of the tour, but it’s the farthest that wheelchair-users can go. From there, several staircases with 3-4 steps each lead over to the Paradise Room, which is the official end of the tour. There are railings on the stairs, but the ground is wet. If you can’t do the stairs, you’ll just have to enjoy the Grand Finale Room while the rest of the group visits the Paradise Room. Still the formations are beautiful in the Grand Finale Room, and you can roll around and get a closer look after the crowd moves on.

Spend the Night

If you’d like to spend the night in Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, there are several accessible campground options. At the top of the list are the three accessible camping cabins. There’s parking on a level cement pad next to the Morrison Cabin, with an accessible pathway to the front door. It’s furnished with a 27-inch high double bed, and a bunk bed with a 19-inch high lower bunk. There’s also a table and four chairs, some clothing hooks, a mirror and a night stand. Outside there’s an accessible picnic table on a cement pad, a standard grill and a water spigot. This cabin also has electricity.

There’s level access to the nearby shower house, which includes an accessible toilet stall with grab bars, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, a lowered control and an accessible pay slot. There’s also a small corner seat in the shower and a slatted bench in the dressing area.

The Smith Cabin and the Woodward Cabin are also accessible, but the Smith Cabin lacks a cement parking space, and both cabins are missing picnic table pads. They are also closer to the other campsites, and lack the privacy of the Morrison Cabin.

Accessible campsite E3 includes a cement parking pad, an accessible table, a raised fire ring and a level tent space. There’s a level sidewalk to the shower house, and it’s the only campsite with electricity. Proof of disability — such as a parking placard — is required to occupy this site.

Finally, the Peregrine Tent is ramped and includes four cots and a small table. There’s also a raised fire ring and a standard table on the grass in front of the unit. It’s not close to the restrooms, and not rated as accessible like the cabins, but it may be doable for some folks.

emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-glacier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers

L&C-cabin-1
The Morrison Cabin at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Inside the Morrison Cabin at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Inside the bathhouse at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
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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disabled hunting

A Disabled Hunting Adventure; Stalking Big Game Out West

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disabled hunting
Jacob and his cousin at the Buffalo Bill Museum

An avid South Carolina hunter, Jacob Beisecker had long dreamed about hunting big game out west. A bucket list item for many hunters, this dream trip seemed out of reach for Beisecker, a T11/L2 incomplete paraplegic. Says Jacob, “I knew that logistically and financially it (the hunt) would be a challenge.” Then after a few Google searches he stumbled upon Wyoming Disabled Hunters (WDH), which offers free accessible hunting expeditions. “When I found that my injury qualified me to participate with WDH it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up,” recalls Beisecker. Although he wasn’t selected in the first draw of applicants, one hunter subsequently dropped out and Jacob was notified in late July that he was selected to fill the open slot. And so his big game hunting adventure began.

Wyoming Disabled Hunters

Based in Cody, WDH (wyomingdisabledhunters.org) has been providing affordable hunts for disabled hunters since 2009. Their first disabled hunting adventure consisted of just four deer hunters, but today they usually accommodate 20 hunters a year at their elk, mule deer and antelope hunts. And according to Terry Skinner, WDH President, they have 91% success rate overall, and a 100% success rate in the past two years.

The first WDH hunt takes place in mid-September and it’s open to antelope hunters; while the second hunt includes deer hunters and some elk hunters in the last week of October. Says Skinner, “WDH utilizes consistent areas through generous permission from private landowners allowing WDH to hunt their lands. We go to great lengths ahead of time to understand each hunter’s disabilities and everything they may need to be successful.”

WDH provides complimentary accommodations, meals and guides for the hunters. The hunters must foot the bill for transportation to Cody, arrange for their own personal care and pay for incidentals. WDH also covers meat processing costs for elk and deer.

Additional financial assistance based on need may also be available for transportation to Cody. A financial assistance application can be found on the WDH website during the open application window. Says Skinner, ” Assistance includes reimbursement for a portion of motel costs (while traveling), and a rate/mile, or plane flight costs.” This is all in line with WDH’s mission statement, to provide an affordable hunt for disabled hunters.

The Accommodations

disabled hunting
Snow covered landscape outside Cody

Jacob and his fellow hunters were housed at the Bull Moose Retreat, a VRBO property that borders BLM land. The eight bedroom house includes ramp access and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. It sits on 35 acres surrounded by the Carter Mountains, with plenty of hunting locations nearby. And according to Jacob they all had their own rooms, with plenty of space to spread out.

Jacob’s group included six wheelchair users (two quads and two paras) as well as two hunters with low vision. Their disabled hunting adventure included airport transfers as well as transportation to the hunting sites. The guides also provided the hunters with assistance, whenever needed.

All meals were included in the package. They were prepared by WDH volunteers and served family style in the large dining room at Bull Moose Retreat. Says Jacob, “Everything is top notch with WDH and they have contacts with great landowners who have properties with incredible hunting opportunities. They can handle just about anyone with a mobility challenge so definitely sign up and give it a try if it’s something you’re interested in!”

The Hunt

Jacob and his harvest

Jacob’s cousin from Indiana also joined him on the hunt, for camaraderie and to help out whenever needed. The first day was a range day, just to make sure everyone was comfortable with their firearms. Adds Jacob, “That evening my guide took us out to do some scouting from the truck to try and figure out where we should start the next morning.”

The three-day hunt began early the next day when they hit the road with their guide. And after a bit of scouting, the hunt began in earnest. Recalls Jacob, “We had ‘shoot from vehicle permits’ and you only had to get 30 feet — I believe — off the main roadway; so we were able to utilize some of the roads through the ranches to get in close enough to shoot from the truck. After a few close calls, I finally sealed the deal and took my mule deer buck on the first evening.”

After he harvested his buck, the guide transported him on a deer sled over to the kill site, so he could take photos with his prize. Says Jacob, “It took several people to make it happen but I’m so glad they put hunts like these on, and have such awesome volunteers and guides willing to do anything you need.”

The majority of the hunters in Jacob’s group filled their tags on the first day, and everyone tagged out at the end of the hunt. “We easily saw hundreds to thousands of deer a day and that’s just something I’ve never seen in my life before,” says Jacob. Jacob and his cousin also got to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Yellowstone National Park. And they helped some of their fellow hunters out in the scouting department.

The Application Process

If you’d like to take part in a disabled hunting adventure of your own, the first thing you need to do is apply. Applications are available on the WDH website beginning on December 1. The application period runs through January 25.

Applicants must also obtain a Wyoming Disabled Hunter Permit in order to to participate in WDH hunts. To be eligible, you must have one of the following conditions, which must be certified by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, or a personal physician.

  • At least a 70% service connected disability
  • Permanently unable to walk without a mobility device
  • Lung disease
  • Cardiac condition
  • Physical disability that prevents applicant from holding or shooting a firearm
  • Visual acuity that does not exceed 20/200

More information about the permit can be found at https://wgfd.wyo.gov/media/129/download?inline. There is no charge for the permit, and a Shoot From a Vehicle Permit is also included with the Wyoming Disabled Hunter Permit.

Applications to participate in WDH hunts are available on the WDH website. And if you have any questions or concerns you can contact Terry Skinner at tkskinner25@outlook.com or (307) 250-3771.

Once the application is complete, the selection process is pretty simple. Says Skinner, “We always receive more applications than available spots. We first confirm all the applicants online application information is complete and then we simply perform a random draw for the primary hunter list. We also draw alternate hunters just in case anyone from the primary list has to decline their hunts later on.”

These hunts are really a once in a lifetime experience, so make plans to apply now. Says Jacob, “It’s definitely a must-do and they are all some of the nicest, most accommodating people! Definitely apply and give it a shot if it’s something you’re interested in.”

emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-glacier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers

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

Buy the Book
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